purchase, george & murphey.
purchase, george & murphey.
If you’re like most people charged with a DUI, this is the first time you’ve been in any kind of trouble. You don’t know what to expect. You may not have any experience with the criminal justice system. (You probably don’t feel like a “criminal” at all.) But you’ve heard that the DUI laws in Pennsylvania are harsh. They are. And you’re worried about your freedom, your driver’s license, your job, and your family.
We help people from all walks of life, including doctors, teachers, police officers, laborers, lawyers, nurses, cooks, students, and soldiers. Our clients make contributions to our community by holding jobs, raising families, paying taxes, and serving our country. We defend their freedom because we want to preserve those contributions and allow these individuals, and their families, to enjoy the rights and freedom they deserve.
This form is fully confidential. We will safeguard your privacy and reputation. We will contact you within 24 hours. If you need immediate assistance, please call our office: 814.402.8826
Here is what you’ll learn about how to choose a DUI lawyer in Erie, Meadville, or Warren, Pennsylvania before you waste time calling anyone or missing work to drive across town for a “free consultation.”
The Ultimate Guide for Anyone Charged with DUI in Pennsylvania. Learn what happens next and how you can protect your family, your job, and your freedom.
Our law firm defends clients against all types of drunk driving charges, including:
Yesterday, finding a good DWI lawyer was the last thing on your mind. Today, it’s all you can think about. At Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C., we understand how you feel. We know what you stand to lose and we realize that you have questions that need answers – now. You’ve come to the right place.
Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer for your case can be difficult. Reading about the experiences others have had with us is one factor for you to consider when choosing the right lawyer for you and your case. Here are a few examples:
In my case, a first time DUI, I sought out representation that offered a straightforward, honest voice and demonstrated capability in this unique and difficult area of law. Everything you find on Tim’s website is “the real deal.” (Read the books–they help immensely!)… They answer calls, emails and countless questions… You will understand what will happen to you throughout the entire legal process. And most importantly, Tim and his team really do stick with you through the entire affair…
– Dan, October 2017
It was a dark day when I found out that my husband was arrested for DUI… I was scared that he would be sent to prison…That is when Tim George came to the rescue. He was aggressive in court [and] he got the DUI dropped completely… I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer.
– Elizabeth, November 2015
No one can promise results. In fact, it is unethical for lawyers to guarantee a particular outcome. No two cases are exactly the same, and the facts of every case are often in dispute. However, knowing what other cases a lawyer has handled — and handled well — is another factor for you to consider when choosing the right Erie, PA DUI lawyer for you and your case. Visit our case results to learn about some of the DWI cases defended by Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C.
★★★★★
"Professional, honest, hard-working and made the entire process a lot less stressful."
Gregory F., July 2021 / Former Client
★★★★★
"We really appreciate Tim taking the time to consult with us. He was very professional and had great advice. We really appreciate it."
Leonid K., May 2021 / Former Client
The Erie DUI lawyers at Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. will defend your freedom, protect your rights, and protect your future. Our lawyers are recognized by other lawyers for the service provided in DUI cases, the people we help, and as a result of additional training and education in these complex cases.
A DUI can remain in your record for years to come. Our skilled DUI defense lawyers are committed to protecting your legal rights and building a strong case to minimize the consequences of a DUI arrest.
For a free initial case evaluation, call our offices at (814) 580-5017 or fill out this online contact form today. We’ll let you know how we can help. You can also view our DUI FAQ page to get answers to frequently asked questions about DUI charges in Erie, Pennsylvania.
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania takes driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI) extremely seriously. However, not every traffic stop that results in a DUI arrest will result in conviction.
At Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C., our criminal defense lawyers have decades of experience successfully helping Erie, PA residents accused of committing DUI offenses. We work tirelessly to make sure your legal rights are protected—starting with the traffic stop itself. Below are some of the answers to frequently asked questions about DUI claims in Western Pennsylvania. For custom-tailored legal advice, call or contact our skilled Erie, PA DUI defense lawyers today.
What is the legal blood alcohol limit (BAC) for driving under the influence of alcohol in Pennsylvania? +
The legal limit is 0.08% BAC. If your BAC is higher, you can be charged with driving under the influence of alcohol.
What are the “impairment tiers” that apply under Pennsylvania law? +
Penalties for a DUI in Pennsylvania depend upon your prior record of DUIs and your blood alcohol content at the time of arrest. Three tiers—levels of BAC readings—exist, as follows:
The difference is important—for example, most “Tier 1” first offenders receive probation, fines, community service and are required to attend Alcohol Highway Safety School. Tier 2 first offenders can face up to six months in jail and a 12-month driver’s license suspension, among other penalties.
Can I refuse to take a blood alcohol test if I have been asked in a traffic stop? Don’t I have the right to an attorney before I take the test? +
You can always refuse a breath test, but you may be arrested anyway. In fact, law enforcement can proceed with DUI charges even without a BAC reading. You can even be charged with a more serious offense for refusing the breath test—law enforcement is entitled to charge you at the highest impairment tier, meaning you could face more serious penalties than if you had taken the breath test. You do not have the right to an attorney before submitting to a breath test in Pennsylvania.
Do I have the right to ask for a blood or urine test instead of a breath test? +
No. Unless you have some type of medical condition, you must participate in the chemical test chosen by the law enforcement officer or face penalties for refusing.
Will I lose my drivers’ license if convicted of a DUI? +
In some cases. If you are convicted of a DUI that is not a first-offense, first-impairment tier (meaning your BAC was 0.099% or lower), you will use your license for at least 12 months.
What if I was convicted of a DUI in another state. Does that count if I was arrested for a DUI later in Pennsylvania? +
Usually, DUIs in other states will show up on your background check when you are later being prosecuted in Pennsylvania. It is rare that your prior DUI will not show up, but it is possible.
I was arrested on DUI charges in Pennsylvania and am facing suspension of my license—but I am licensed in another state. Will my drivers’ license be suspended in my home state? +
Usually, yes. 45 states and Washington, D.C., have agreements to honor a license suspension ordered by another state. The only states that are not currently party to this agreement are Michigan, Georgia, Wisconsin, Tennessee and Massachusetts. Pennsylvania will notify the Department of Transportation in your state and the suspension will be placed on your home-state record. It is also worth noting that all of your DUI-related hearings will take place in Pennsylvania and you will need a lawyer licensed in Pennsylvania to handle your defense.
If my BAC was above the legal limit, is there even a point to defending my case? +
Yes. In some cases, we may be able to build a strong case to have your case dismissed or reduce the tier at which you are charged. Our lawyers will look at all of the evidence in your case to determine whether we can challenge:
Every case is different and a BAC reading that is above the legal limit does not mean a conviction is automatic.
Are there any special programs for those charged with first offense DUIs in Pennsylvania? +
Yes. It is possible to be admitted to the state’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition Program (ARD). To qualify, you must be a first offender (within the last ten years). Your DUI cannot have involved any accident that resulted in a serious injury or death, and you cannot have had a passenger aged 14 or younger with you in the vehicle. The district attorney has the final say in determining whether you qualify for entry into the ARD program—it is not automatic. Successful completion of the ARD program can result in the DUI charges against you being dropped.
Is there any way that I can keep my driver’s license even if I am charged with a higher tier DUI? I need my vehicle to get to work. +
In limited cases, our lawyers may be able to argue for your right to use your vehicle for transportation to work. We will petition for issuance of an occupational limited license (OLL), which can allow your limited right to drive while your general license is suspended.
If my BAC was above the legal limit and I challenge the DUI, won’t I receive a worse punishment than if I simply admit guilt? +
Our lawyers never bring frivolous challenges that could possibly irritate the judge. When we defend your DUI in court, we will back our arguments with evidence designed to mitigate the consequences of your DUI. You have the legal right to defend yourself even if the BAC reading was above the legal limit. Our experienced lawyers can evaluate the facts of your case to determine whether a challenge is appropriate.
Where can I find more information about DUIs? +
Please check out our DUI/DWI FAQ page for more information.
What are the DUI Penalties in Pennsylvania? +
What Are Some Common Mistakes People Make When Hiring a DUI Lawyer? +
Although we take great pride in our excellent case results, our greatest satisfaction comes from the kind words shared by our clients. Read what others say about us here.
