DUI - First Offense & ARD Program

Protecting Your Future After a First DUI Arrest

A first offense DUI in Pennsylvania can be overwhelming. Even with no prior record, a DUI conviction can mean license suspension, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. However, Pennsylvania offers an important opportunity for first-time offenders through the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program, which can keep your record clean if handled properly.

At Sheridan Lawyers, we represent clients charged with first-offense DUI in Chester County, Bucks County, Delaware County, and Montgomery County, focusing on minimizing penalties and preserving your future.

What Happens After a First DUI in Pennsylvania?

Penalties depend on your blood alcohol content (BAC) and whether there were aggravating circumstances (accident, injuries, refusal to test):

• License suspension: 12 months in many cases (may be reduced with ARD)

• Fines: $300 to $5,000

• Probation or jail time: Up to 6 months of probation or 48 hours to 6 months of incarceration

• Mandatory alcohol treatment and classes

• Ignition interlock: May be required after license restoration

Even for a first offense, the consequences are serious and long-lasting if you are convicted.

What Is the ARD Program?

ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition) is a pre-trial diversion program available to many first-time DUI offenders.

Benefits of ARD:

• No jail sentence in most cases

• Significantly shorter license suspension (often 30 to 60 days)

• Completion of classes and community service instead of a conviction

• After successful completion, the DUI charge is dismissed and can be expunged from your record

Eligibility is not automatic. Admission into ARD is at the discretion of the District Attorney and requires careful preparation by your attorney.

How Sheridan Lawyers Defends First DUI Cases

Our defense strategy includes:

• Reviewing the legality of the traffic stop and arrest

• Challenging field sobriety and chemical test results

• Identifying procedural errors that may result in the suppression of evidence

• Negotiating aggressively for ARD program admission if it is in your best interest

• Preparing for trial if ARD is not available or not the right path

Our priority is to protect your record and keep you out of jail.

Why You Need a Lawyer Immediately

For first-time DUI offenders, the choices you make early in the case will affect the rest of your life. You have a short window to request ARD and challenge evidence. Do not speak to the police or plead guilty without talking to a defense attorney.