If you are the owner of a vehicle and you allow another person to drive it while their license is suspended, you are committing a criminal offense known as Wrongful Entrustment. This is not a minor traffic oversight; it is a serious legal issue. Wrongful entrustment generally occurs under specific circumstances where you give permission to drive to someone who falls into one of the following categories:

• The person driving your vehicle does not possess a valid driver’s license, a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), a driving permit, or valid non-resident driving privileges.
• The license of the individual in question has been officially suspended by the state.
• The driver cannot provide proof of financial responsibility, which usually means they do not have valid auto insurance.
• He or she is operating the vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

It is a significant offense to allow an individual to operate your car under any of the circumstances mentioned above. If charged, you will face a first-degree misdemeanor, a classification that is comparable in severity to OV/DUI charges. When you are dealing with a legal situation of this magnitude, it is essential to obtain professional legal assistance. To navigate these complexities, you need to speak with an experienced Mercer criminal lawyer.

At Logue Law Group, we have managed hundreds of similar cases and have successfully helped our clients achieve the most favorable outcomes possible. If you or a loved one has been charged with a case of wrongful entrustment, we urge you to talk to our team right away.

The Cases Where You Will Be Charged With Wrongful Entrustment

The circumstances listed previously are the most common reasons for these charges, but they are not the only ones. There are other scenarios where you might be held liable. Pennsylvania Revised Code 4511.203 explicitly states the legal boundaries that define when you shall be charged with this offense. The law often hinges on what you knew, or should have known, regarding the driver’s status.

In addition to the points previously mentioned, you are at a higher risk of being charged with wrongful entrustment if the alleged driver is related to you by blood or marriage. Furthermore, if the driver lives in the same household as you, the prosecution may presume you were aware of their license status. In these specific domestic situations, the guidance of a knowledgeable Mercer DUI lawyer can be invaluable to your defense.

Penalties for Wrongful Entrustment

According to Pennsylvania law, charges of wrongful entrustment are treated with the same level of seriousness as driving under a license suspension. This first-degree offense is punishable by significant penalties that can impact your freedom and your finances. The potential consequences include:

• Imprisonment for up to 6 months.
• A fine of up to $1,000.
• Vehicle immobilization for 30 days for a first offense.
• Vehicle immobilization for 60 days if it is a second offense.
• Criminal forfeiture of the vehicle if the offender is convicted for the third time.

If you are caught in a circumstance like this, it is necessary that you seek counsel immediately. You will require complete legal assistance so that a qualified Mercer criminal lawyer can fight for your case aggressively, ensuring the best resolution and working to protect your property rights.

Consult Our Group Now

At Logue Law Group, we have been dealing with similar cases for a very long time and have helped our clients get optimal outcomes. We understand that mistakes happen, but they shouldn’t ruin your life. Our Mercer DUI lawyer will listen to your case diligently and will ensure that you get the justice you deserve while protecting your rights.Call 412.389.0805 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.