DUI - Second Offense & Restricted Probation Defense Lawyers

Strategic Defense for a Second DUI Offense in Pennsylvania

A second DUI offense in Pennsylvania comes with far harsher penalties than a first offense, including mandatory jail time, longer license suspensions, and higher fines. In some cases, the court may impose restricted probation as an alternative sentence, but this still involves strict conditions that can impact your daily life.

At Sheridan Lawyers, we provide aggressive defense for individuals charged with a second DUI in Chester County, Bucks County, Delaware County, and Montgomery County. We know how to fight the evidence, challenge the legality of the stop, and pursue the best possible outcome.

What Happens After a Second DUI in Pennsylvania?

The penalties for a second DUI depend on your blood alcohol content (BAC) and whether there were aggravating factors (such as an accident or a refusal to take a chemical test):

• Mandatory jail time: 5 days to 90 days, depending on BAC and circumstances

• Fines: $300 to $5,000

• License suspension: 12 to 18 months

• Ignition Interlock: Required for at least one year after restoration of your license

• Alcohol treatment programs: Often mandatory

These penalties are much harsher than for a first offense.

What Is Restricted Probation in a Second DUI Case?

In some cases, courts may allow restricted probation (also called intermediate punishment or restrictive DUI probation) instead of a long jail sentence. This often includes:

• Strict probation supervision

• Mandatory alcohol treatment and counseling

• Electronic home monitoring or house arrest

• Community service requirements

• Regular testing for drugs and alcohol

While this alternative avoids extended jail time, violating the terms can result in immediate incarceration.

How Sheridan Lawyers Defends Second DUI Cases

We investigate every aspect of your DUI arrest, including:

• Whether the traffic stop was legal

• Accuracy and handling of field sobriety and chemical tests

• Chain of custody of blood or breath samples

• Whether prior DUI convictions were properly counted and valid

• Mitigating circumstances that may allow for alternative sentencing or entry into programs such as ARD (if eligible) or DUI Court programs

Our goal is to reduce or eliminate jail time, avoid a long license suspension, and protect your future.

Why You Should Act Immediately

A second DUI charge moves quickly through Pennsylvania courts. You have limited time to protect your driving privileges and start building a defense. Do not plead guilty or make statements without talking to a lawyer.