Aggravated DUI Attorney in Scranton

Your Solution for Serious Aggravated DUI Charges in Northeastern Pennsylvania

If you’ve been charged with aggravated DUI in Scranton, the situation may seem overwhelming, but taking decisive action now can make all the difference. At Rogan Law, our approach is built on thorough case evaluation, local insight, and skilled criminal defense strategies that help individuals regain control after a serious DUI arrest. As a trusted aggravated DUI attorney in Scranton, we stay current with court procedures throughout Lackawanna County, which allows us to effectively advocate for your best interests through every stage of your case.

Pennsylvania’s DUI enforcement—particularly for aggravated offenses—is among the most rigorous in the region. Local authorities, including the Scranton Police Department and the Pennsylvania State Police Troop R, regularly patrol key highways and city streets, elevating the risk of encountering heightened enforcement during weekends, holidays, or local events. Our team brings years of experience working directly with these agencies; this background enables us to analyze every detail of your arrest and create a legal strategy to challenge the prosecution’s assumptions and secure the most favorable resolution possible.

Facing an aggravated DUI charge? We offer free consultations and are available 24/7. Call (570) 906-8532 or contact us online to speak with an aggravated DUI attorney in Scranton today.

Aggravated DUI Laws & Penalties in Scranton

Aggravated DUI cases in Pennsylvania are taken seriously and carry significant penalties—especially in Scranton, where prosecutors pursue these charges with considerable attention to detail. An aggravated DUI usually means your BAC was .16% or above, that there were prior DUI convictions, or that an incident resulted in injury or property damage. In these scenarios, you face much harsher consequences than a standard DUI charge.

Below are crucial elements of aggravated DUI charges as they relate to Scranton and the surrounding area:

• Highest BAC level: A BAC reading of .16% or greater subjects defendants to the highest penalty tier, including mandatory jail sentences and increased financial penalties.
• Repeat offenses: A history of prior DUI convictions increases the risk of lengthier license suspensions, court-ordered treatment, and longer incarceration periods.
• DUI with a Child Passenger: If a person is arrested for a DUI while a minor under the age of 18 is in the vehicle, the charge is automatically enhanced. A first or second offense with a minor in the car is a misdemeanor of the first degree,.
• DUI Causing Injury or Death: If a person, while driving under the influence, causes serious bodily injury or death to another person, the charge is automatically a felony, regardless of prior convictions. A DUI that results in a serious bodily injury can be charged as Aggravated Assault by Vehicle While DUI (§ 3735.1), a felony of the second degree. A DUI that results in the death of another person can be charged as Homicide by Vehicle While DUI (§ 3735), a felony of the second degree.

Administrative consequences often run parallel to criminal proceedings. For instance, PennDOT may suspend your license swiftly after an arrest, even before your case resolves in court. If convicted, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device or participate in alcohol rehabilitation programs. As aggravated DUI lawyers serving Scranton, we help you respond to these administrative deadlines and ensure every available form of defense or mitigation is explored.

Pennsylvania law (75 Pa.C.S. § 3802) sets out strict sentencing guidelines, and Scranton’s judges frequently impose sentences in line with these laws. For some first-time offenders, court diversion programs like ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition) may be available, but aggravated circumstances often affect eligibility. By thoroughly assessing your record and the evidence, we work with you to determine whether a plea negotiation, case dismissal, or trial is the best route for your situation, always keeping your future in mind.

Penalties of an Aggravated DUI Conviction in Pennsylvania

A conviction for an aggravated DUI is a life-altering event. The legal penalties can be severe, and the collateral consequences can be even more devastating, creating barriers that can feel impossible to overcome. Our firm, Rogan Law, is dedicated to protecting you from these severe penalties and consequences. As a dedicated Scranton aggravated DUI lawyer, we will fight for a resolution that minimizes the impact on your life, your family, and your future.

Direct Penalties

The severity of the penalties depends on the specific classification of the offense:

• Third Offense (Felony): A mandatory prison sentence of 1 to 7 years, a fine of $2,500 to $15,000, and an 18-month license suspension.
• DUI with a Child in the Car (First Offense): This is a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable by a mandatory minimum jail sentence of 2 days, a fine of $1,000 to $5,000, and an 18-month license suspension.
• Aggravated Assault by Vehicle While DUI (Felony): This is a felony of the second degree, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
• Homicide by Vehicle While DUI (Felony): This is a felony of the second degree, punishable by a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 3 years and a fine of up to $25,000.

These are just the direct penalties. A DUI conviction can also lead to court-mandated alcohol education and therapy, a required ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle, and other fees. The costs, both financial and personal, are astronomical.

Collateral Consequences

A criminal record for a DUI can make it incredibly difficult to find employment, obtain professional licenses, or secure housing. Many employers and professional licensing boards have zero-tolerance policies for these convictions, and landlords often deny rental applications to those with a criminal record.

Additionally, a felony conviction will result in a permanent ban on owning or possessing a firearm. For non-citizens, a conviction can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation. The social stigma attached to these crimes can also damage your reputation and personal relationships.

Why Choose Our Aggravated DUI Lawyer in Scranton

Selecting an aggravated DUI lawyer in Scranton is a choice that could impact the outcome of your case and your future. At Rogan Law, our team leverages more than 30 years of criminal defense experience, offering the following advantages to every client we serve:

• Decades of proven strategies: More than 30 years of experience handling DUI cases in Scranton and throughout NEPA.
• Personal attention: We take the time to learn the specifics of your case so we can tailor your defense to your unique needs.
• 24/7 availability: Our support is always accessible, so you can connect with us anytime you need guidance or urgent answers.
• Free initial consultation: You can speak with an aggravated DUI lawyer without worrying about up-front fees or hidden costs.

Clients trust our ability to maintain open and consistent communication—essential for navigating Scranton’s tight-knit legal community and winning respect from courtroom staff, district attorneys, and judges. Whether you need remote consultations, after-hours support, or in-person meetings at our Scranton office, we focus on being responsive and attentive at every turn. Our reputation for fighting for clients’ rights and our familiarity with Lackawanna County court processes ensure you always have a reliable advocate working in your corner.

Our Defense Process as Your Aggravated DUI Attorney in Scranton

At Rogan Law, we understand how important it is to have a transparent and accessible defense process. Our goal is to give you a clear road map so that you know exactly what to expect from the moment you contact us until your case is resolved. Here’s how we help you fight an aggravated DUI in Scranton:

• Case assessment: We start with a thorough review during your free consultation, examining police records, field sobriety tests, and procedural details.
• Investigation & evidence review: Our team carefully analyzes whether officers followed proper procedures during your stop and whether the chemical tests were administered and recorded correctly.
• Defense strategy development: We identify any weaknesses in the evidence, from improper device calibration to questioning medical contributors that could impact your BAC reading.
• Representation in Scranton courts: Our defense begins with preliminary hearings and continues through all stages of litigation, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights protected at every phase.
• PennDOT & licensing advice: We handle license suspension hearings, guide you through ignition interlock requirements, and assist with reinstatement paperwork to help get you back on the road as quickly as possible.

For each client, we go beyond generic defense work. We clearly outline Scranton’s local deadlines and requirements, help you prepare for court appearances, and advise on treatment or assessment requirements ordered by the judge. If you’re a first-time offender, we dig into possibilities for ARD and other diversion options; if you have a record or face particularly severe allegations, we build a defense fit for challenging sentencing hearings, always working to minimize damage to your reputation and long-term prospects. By connecting you with trusted local evaluators or support programs, we ensure your compliance with all court orders, which can positively impact your outcome.

Contact an Aggravated DUI Attorney in Scranton for Reliable Help

The stress of an aggravated DUI arrest doesn’t have to define your future. If you’re searching for an aggravated DUI lawyer in Scranton, reach out to Rogan Law today for a free, confidential consultation. Our team will explain your legal options, answer your most urgent questions, and start building a personalized defense plan that fits your unique needs. We are available 24/7 to guide you through PennDOT hearings, upcoming court appearances, and every other step of the process, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. 

Don’t let confusion dictate your next move—call (570) 906-8532 or reach out online to talk to a committed aggravated DUI attorney in Scranton who truly cares about your future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Qualifies as Aggravated DUI in Pennsylvania?

An aggravated DUI in Pennsylvania generally means your BAC tested at .16% or higher, you have prior DUI convictions, you refused a chemical test, or the incident caused injury or property damage. Any of these factors can lead to enhanced penalties under state law.

What Are the Penalties for Aggravated DUI in Scranton?

Those convicted of aggravated DUI may face jail time, heavy fines, long license suspensions, ignition interlock requirements, and mandated treatment. Sentences are determined based on your BAC level, past offenses, and specific event details.

Can I Fight an Aggravated DUI Charge in Scranton?

Absolutely. There are numerous defenses, such as challenging the validity of test results, scrutinizing police conduct during your stop, or uncovering errors in how evidence was collected. Each case is unique, so a strong defense is tailored to your circumstances.

How Quickly Should I Contact an Aggravated DUI Lawyer?

Contact an attorney immediately after being charged. Early action allows for critical evidence preservation and gives your defense team more options—both of which are especially important in Scranton, where cases move quickly through local court systems.

Will an Aggravated DUI in Scranton Stay on My Record Forever?

An aggravated DUI conviction may remain on your public record and impact your career, insurance, and reputation. In some circumstances, you may qualify for expungement or limited access after meeting all court requirements.

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