Latest Blogs
- Bill would expand use of ignition interlocks in Pennsylvania
Dec 30, 2015
A new bill proposes to extend the use of ignition interlock devices to first-time DUI offenders. Recent actions of the Pennsylvania Legislature have sent the message that it has zero tolerance for repeat drunk driving offenders. In the first change to drunk driving laws in over 10 years, the Pennsylvania Senate recently voted unanimously to require certain first-time DUI offenders to install ignition interlock devices on their motor vehicles before they can resume their driving...Read More - Will medical marijuana be legalized in Pennsylvania?
Dec 30, 2015
The governor of Pennsylvania recently changed his opinion regarding the legalization of cannabis oil. Slowly but surely, legislators in Pennsylvania seem to be taking steps toward the legalization of at least certain forms of medical marijuana. Recently, Governor Corbett announced that he has changed his opinion about one type of medicinal marijuana, cannabis oil, also referred to as CBD oil. The governor announced his change in position after meeting with parents whose children suffer from...Read More - Agency recommends lower DUI limit, but many are skeptical
Dec 30, 2015
A federal safety agency has recommended lowering the legal threshold for driving under the influence of alcohol, but some believe any changes to the Pennsylvania DUI laws are likely to come slowly – if they come at all. The National Transportation Safety Board issued a recommendation in May 2013 that states lower the legal threshold for DUI from the current blood alcohol content limit of 0.08 to a proposed BAC limit of 0.05. Such a change would...Read More - Pennsylvania lawmakers seek to require IIDs for first-time DUI offenses
Dec 30, 2015
In Pennsylvania, the punishment associated with driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) can be quite harsh. Indeed, DUI penalties may include fines, jail time as well as license suspensions – not to mention the severity of these penalties typically increase for those with multiple DUIs. However, in the case of first-time offenders, some lawmakers in Pennsylvania are now seeking to add ignition interlocks to the list of restrictions and/or penalties that may be imposed...Read More - Controversial breath test reviewed, questions about reliability raised
Dec 30, 2015
Breathalyzer results are being questioned for providing inaccurate results. A story out of Massachusetts is gaining national attention, and for good reason. The story involves the use of breath tests to prosecute against driving under the influence, or DUI, charges. A recent article in The Boston Globe reports that prosecutors raised concerns about the accuracy of the devices, causing attorneys to review cases for questionable breath test results. According to Massachusetts Public Safety officials, the...Read More - Prosecutors must turn over evidence to criminal defense team
Aug 5, 2015
In order for a Pennsylvania resident to be convicted of a crime, prosecutors are required to establish that person’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Prior to presenting any evidence to the court that officials believe establishes a person’s guilt, prosecutors must allow the accused individual’s criminal defense team complete access to it. This includes all of the materials gathered during the investigation, how the evidence was gathered, handled and/or tested...Read More - Pennsylvania officer killed in crash, drunk driving suspected
Jul 21, 2015
A Pennsylvania police officer lost his life in a two-car accident on May 5. According to reports, a Pennsylvania man was traveling on U.S. Route 30 the wrong way in the westbound lanes at approximately 2 a.m. A police officer’s SUV was in the westbound lanes and was not able to avoid the impending collision with the other vehicle. The wrong way driver is suspected of drunk driving at the time of the accident. The...Read More - Drug charges filed against Pennsylvania dad
Jul 16, 2015
Until a child is old enough to know better, nearly all parents fear that their children will eat, drink or swallow something that will be harmful. Despite their best efforts to keep dangerous products away from their children, however, accidents still happen. For one Pennsylvania father, a pill left within his daughter’s reach almost cost her life and led to child endangerment and drug charges for him. On June 14, his 13-month-old daughter was taking...Read More - Tyler Boyd, Pitt football star, seeks probation for drunk driving
Jul 7, 2015
In Pennsylvania, a blood alcohol content level of .08 is considered to be legally drunk for anyone age 21 (the legal drinking age) or older. This BAC level is not required in order to arrest a person under the age of 21 for drunk driving. This is why 20-year-old college football player Tyler Boyd is currently facing charges for driving under the influence as a minor, purchasing alcohol as a minor and other offenses in connection with...Read More