Youngstown Criminal & OVI Defense Firm
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High Test DUI in New Castle
In New Castle, a High Range PCA = .15 or Higher
No drink driving charge is minor, but if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was .15 or higher, it becomes even more serious. A lawyer understands the methods used by police in the area to determine if a person is driving under the influence.
How Is a Low-Range PCA Different From a High-Range PCA?
In NSW, a “low range” prescribed concentration of alcohol (PCA) means the driver’s BAC is between 0.05 and 0.079. However, if the driver’s BAC is .15 or higher, they are charged with a “high range” PCA. This classification comes with much harsher penalties than a low or mid-range PCA charge does. This is where an experienced New Castle criminal lawyer becomes essential.
The law outlines a high-range PCA result as a breath analysis reading of 0.150 or more grams of alcohol in 210 litres of breath, or a blood analysis of 0.150 or more grams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood.
The law has specific penalties listed for a first-time high-range PCA offence.
- Mandatory Alcohol Interlock Program: A device is installed in your vehicle, which requires you to provide a zero-alcohol breath sample before the car will start.
- Fines: Penalties can range up to $3,300.
- Imprisonment: You could face a jail sentence of up to 18 months.
- Licence Disqualification: A minimum disqualification period of 6 months, which can extend up to 9 months. Following this, you will be subject to a mandatory interlock period of 24 months.
An offender may be advised by their lawyer to enter a program like the Sober Driver Program. This is a proactive way to show the court they are serious about not repeating the offence. Your New Castle DUI lawyer can provide advice on suitable programs. These courses focus on traffic safety, the dangers of drunk driving, and offer assessments to students, referring those who need it for further assistance.
The penalties that follow a high-range PCA conviction are harsh and expensive. Don’t attempt to defend yourself in this situation. You need the assistance of a good attorney.
Just because you were charged with a high-range PCA doesn’t mean a conviction is automatic. Your New Castle criminal lawyer is well-versed in traffic law. After speaking with you and examining the evidence against you, they will know what defence options might work in your case. They can identify procedural errors in the testing and arrest process, and use that information to potentially get your charges reduced or even dismissed. They will also be able to advise you on restoring your driving privileges.
There are more than just legal consequences to a high-range PCA charge. It’s difficult to keep something like this a secret, especially if a car accident was involved. Your neighbours and friends may react in various ways, from teasing to lecturing. Your employment could be in jeopardy, especially if driving is part of your job description. A skilled New Castle DUI lawyer from Youngstown Criminal Law Group can help you navigate these challenges. You could even find your educational opportunities limited and your professional licence at risk.
Operating a vehicle while intoxicated is no joking matter. The consequences are severe and can be life-changing. If you are arrested for this charge, you need excellent representation from a New Castle criminal lawyer.
Call us at (330) 992-3036 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.