Wyland Law Group, a Pittsburgh-area law firm, recently shared tips regarding what Pittsburgh-area residents need to understand if they are ever pulled over for a DUI. Wyland said that it hopes to help Pennsylvania residents answer the important question, “What do I do now?”

Wyland Law Group stated that the first step of any DUI case in Pennsylvania is the arrest. Wyland said that, after motorists are pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence, the law enforcement officer will ask for license, registration, and proof of insurance, while also observing mannerisms for signs of intoxication. If the officer suspects intoxication, he or she may administer a field sobriety test. Wyland shared that if the officer feels that the driver is intoxicated, the driver will likely be arrested, fingerprinted, and asked to submit to a blood alcohol content (BAC) test. 

Wyland Law Group shared that the next step of any DUI case is the charges and paperwork. Wyland stated that most first-time DUI offenders believe that by being released from the police station without hearing dates, paperwork, or jail time, it means that their BAC was under the legal limit and they will not be charged with a DUI. Wyland Law Group cautioned that this is a dangerous misconception. 

According to Wyland Law Group, since Pennsylvania police are not required to conduct a preliminary arraignment, they are not required to bring forth a DUI charge immediately. In most cases, Pennsylvania police departments do not issue a criminal complaint at the time of the arrest. Wyland Law Group advised that it is common for Pennsylvania drivers to receive their criminal complaint days after being arrested.

Wyland Law Group shared that the next step is a preliminary hearing in front of a Magisterial District Judge. Contrary to common misconception, the purpose of the preliminary hearing is not to determine guilt or innocence; it is simply to determine if there is enough evidence to go to trial.

Wyland Law Group was founded by Jacob Wyland, a Pittsburgh-area attorney with years of experience in criminal defense. Wyland Law Group has posted additional information about its law firm at www.wylandlawgroup.com

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