Can a DUI Charge Be Dismissed in Pennsylvania?

If you face DUI charges in Lebanon, PA, you might be wondering whether you can have your case “dismissed.” Is this possible? Why might prosecutors drop your charges against you, and how can you encourage them to take this step? You can explore these questions in more detail with an experienced DUI defense attorney.

Many DUI Defendants Push for an Early Dismissal

An early case dismissal is an obvious and common goal for DUI defendants in Lebanon. If prosecutors drop charges against you, you can simply walk away. You will not get a new conviction on your record, but the record of your arrest might remain until you get an expungement.

Although an early dismissal is probably the best possible outcome, prosecutors may also choose to drop charges against you at any stage during the criminal proceedings. This is also usually preferable to an acquittal.

What Happens When I Get My DUI Charges Dismissed?

A case dismissal occurs when prosecutors agree to drop charges against you. They usually do this when they become less confident of success in the courtroom. When prosecutors file a “nolle prosequi,” the court will “drop” the case. This could lead to the court “dismissing” the charges against you.

Dismissal With Prejudice vs. Without Prejudice

There are two types of dismissals: With prejudice and without prejudice. When the court dismisses your DUI charges “with prejudice,” it means that you will never face charges for the same offense ever again. If the court dismisses the case “without prejudice,” it means that you could face charges for the same incident in the future.

Obviously, a dismissal with prejudice is preferable in this situation. A dismissal without prejudice often means that the prosecutors will simply take more time to build their case and gather evidence before taking you back to court.

How Do I Get My DUI Charges Dropped?

You may be able to have your DUI charges dropped by the prosecutors if you make them less confident about their case. An obvious way to do this is to show them new evidence that would help you win an acquittal if it were presented in court.

For example, your defense attorney might find video surveillance that proves the police officers violated your constitutional rights in some way. You might also find evidence that challenges the reliability of your Breathalyzer or chemical test result. Each case is different. Speak with an attorney to learn what might lead to dismissed charges in your unique situation.

Can a DUI Defense Attorney in Lebanon, PA, Help Me?

Work with an experienced DUI defense attorney in Lebanon, PA, and you might just find that dismissing your charges is easier than you realized. When prosecutors face new circumstances that reduce their chances of winning in court, they often decide to drop charges. This is almost always preferable to an acquittal, and you can pursue this goal with Feeman Law Offices today. Contact us at (717) 273-1763 or visit us online to get started.