Whether or not you face penalties for avoiding a DUI checkpoint depends on how you avoided the checkpoint in the first place. If you did so by making a legal U-turn before entering the checkpoint, you might not face any penalties. According to Pennsylvania law, a driver is not legally required to go through a DUI roadblock.
Per Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes Title 75 § 6308, these checkpoints are legal as part of a “systematic program of checking vehicles or drivers.” However, the legality of the checkpoint does not mean you must comply with it before you enter it. If you believe you avoided the checkpoint lawfully, our team will help you fight back against any resulting penalties.
How Our Team Could Prove You Legally Avoided a DUI Checkpoint
To prove your avoidance was not illegal, our team will canvass for witnesses and passersby who support your version of events. We will locate and interview witnesses to:
- Establish the location and proximity of your U-turn in relation to the checkpoint
- Review the officer’s apprehension of your vehicle and your arrest
- Collect any smartphone footage witnesses took
- Search for residential, commercial, or dashcam video footage
We can also question whether sufficient notice of the checkpoint was provided to the general public as required by law. In short, we check the legality of the checkpoint from all aspects and look for any violations that benefit your defense. By doing so, we aim to limit or eliminate the threat of conviction.
DUI Arrest and Conviction Can Be Costly
According to Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) estimates, a DUI arrest can lead to criminal penalties and fines. You can also incur additional costs, including:
- Varying traffic fines
- Towing and impound fees
- Blood alcohol content (BAC) testing and evaluation costs
- Fees for retaining or restoring your driver’s license
- Increased auto insurance rates
- Loss of driving-related employment
Our team can help you avoid these consequences by building a solid defense for you. We will also fight to limit potentially damaging incarceration and societal costs, including damage to your reputation, driving record, and career.
How We Help You Fight These Consequences
If you or someone you love was arrested for avoiding a DUI checkpoint, we will fight hard to protect your rights and your freedom. By getting our team involved in your case immediately after your arrest, we have time to conduct a thorough investigation and to:
- Examine the evidence against you
- Locate and interview witnesses
- Challenge the legality of the DUI checkpoint
- Identify any violation of your rights
- Negotiate beneficial plea bargains
We will also communicate with the prosecution on your behalf and fight to reduce the charges or penalties. Additionally, we make sure the state tries your case in a timely fashion.
Benefits of Hiring Our Traffic Crimes Law Firm
Traffic crimes might sound minor, but they can lead to serious penalties, including jail time, hefty fines, and the loss of driving privileges. The benefits of hiring our team to represent you include our:
- Familiarity with state and local traffic laws
- Ability to negotiate with the prosecution
- Careful scrutiny of the evidence against you
- Willingness to fight hard for your best interests
David McKenzie is a former criminal prosecutor who puts his knowledge of the criminal justice system to work for you. He and our team members want to ensure you exercise the rights you are afforded after an arrest and get the defense your case deserves.
Client Praise and Endorsements
One previous client, Hilary Minutolo, had this to say in a Google review: “McKenzie Law is extremely professional and personable. They respond to all of your concerns immediately. I would recommend the law firm with the highest standards.”
Another client, Lawrence Michele, said, “I cannot say enough about this firm. From the moment I called and scheduled a consultation, I was met with compassion and understanding. Thank you again. Without all your hard work, understanding, and support I wouldn’t be where I need to be. Home!”
We Believe in Open Client Communication
A criminal case is always a stressful event. While we fight for your freedom, we keep you informed on the progress of your case. We also make sure you can reach us with any questions you might have. Access to your lawyer includes:
- Text
- Phone
- Social media
You should never be left wondering about the status and outcome of your case. In addition, if you have a question or concern, we want to know about it. When your future and freedom are in jeopardy, we make sure you can always reach your lawyer once we sign on to represent you.
Get Your DUI Case Evaluated at No Cost
If you avoided a DUI checkpoint or were arrested for doing so in Montgomery County, we can help. Contact a team member at McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. by calling (610) 991-7219 to learn more about fighting back against the penalties for avoiding a DUI checkpoint.
