Military Veteran And Advocate For
Justice In Family And Criminal Law

Skilled First-Offense DUI Attorney In Erie, Pennsylvania

A first-offense DUI charge can be intimidating and life-changing. For many, it is their first encounter with the criminal justice system. Even without prior convictions, the consequences of a first-time DUI in Pennsylvania can be severe and long-lasting. That is why working with a first-offense DUI attorney who understands the law and the local courts is essential.

Attorney Bruce G. Sandmeyer has over 25 years of experience representing clients facing DUI charges in Erie and surrounding counties. As a U.S. Army combat veteran, he brings discipline and a strong sense of duty to every case. If you have been arrested for drunk driving, Bruce G. Sandmeyer can help you understand what to expect and how to respond.

Penalties For A First Offense DUI In Pennsylvania

While a first DUI may be classified as a misdemeanor, Pennsylvania imposes strict penalties depending on your BAC level and other circumstances. Common consequences of a first DUI include:

  • Fines: Ranging from $300 to $5,000 depending on BAC and circumstances
  • License suspension: From no suspension to 12 months for higher BAC or refusal to test
  • Alcohol highway safety school: A mandatory education program for most first-time offenders
  • Jail or probation: Up to six months of probation or 72 hours in jail for high BAC

Bruce G. Sandmeyer can walk clients through these outcomes and fight for reduced penalties based on the facts of the case.

How A First Time DUI Affects Driving And Insurance

A drunk driving arrest will appear on your driving record and may lead to increased auto insurance rates. Many insurance providers raise premiums significantly or cancel policies altogether. These financial consequences can persist long after the case is closed. Bruce G. Sandmeyer evaluates every aspect of a case to help minimize these long-term impacts.

Can You Avoid Jail Time For A First-Offense DUI?

Yes, in many cases. Bruce G. Sandmeyer often helps eligible clients apply for the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program, which allows first-time offenders to avoid jail and may lead to record expungement. Other diversion programs or negotiated outcomes may be available based on individual facts. As an experienced criminal lawyer, he works to pursue sentencing alternatives whenever appropriate.

Serving Erie And Surrounding Areas

Bruce G. Sandmeyer’s office is located in downtown Erie, just a short walk from Perry Square and the Erie County Courthouse. He represents clients across Erie County and the surrounding region who are facing a first-offense DUI or related charge.

Start Building A Strong Defense

Call the Law Offices of Bruce G. Sandmeyer, Esq., today at 814-616-2928 or contact him online to speak with a first-offense DUI attorney who brings dedication and over 25 years of criminal defense experience to every case. He offers evening, weekend and offsite meetings when needed and proudly serves veterans and civilians alike with respect and determination.