DUI Safe and Protected with Powerful Representation

Not Guilty Aggravated Assault
Charges Dropped Embezzlement
Not Guilty College student rape case
Not Guilty Double Homicide
Not Guilty Drug Trafficking
Acquittal Impeachment Trial
Not Guilty Child Pornography
Not Guilty Aggravated Assault
Charges Dropped Embezzlement
Pardon Granted Governor’s Pardon for Theft
Not Guilty Murder Case
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Charges Dropped Arson
Not Guilty Rape case
Not Guilty DUI
Pardon Granted Governor’s Pardon for Assault

Philadelphia DUI Lawyer

DUI Defense Attorney in Philadelphia, PA Providing Skilled Legal Representation for DUI Charges Throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania

Getting arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Pennsylvania can leave you with considerable and lasting consequences. A DUI conviction has the potential to result in jail time, significant fines, mandatory license suspension, mandatory alcohol education classes, and extensive damage to your professional and personal reputation. If you are currently dealing with DUI charges, even if it is your first offense, consult with a Philadelphia DUI lawyer who understands the urgency of defending your rights and minimizing the consequences of your charges.

At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, we know what is at stake in DUI charges. Our legal team includes more than a dozen criminal defense attorneys who have decades of combined experience serving the people of the Philadelphia community. We have crafted hundreds of custom-tailored defenses for clients ranging from first-time offenders to people facing serious felony DUI charges.

Whether your charges involve an injured victim, repeat offenses, or motor vehicle accidents, we are prepared to stand by you through every stage of your defense. We do not settle for “good enough” representation, and we are dedicated to providing each of our clients with the strong and aggressive defense they need from their Philadelphia DUI lawyer. When your license, criminal record, and freedom are on the line, speak with a DUI defense attorney in Philadelphia, PA, at our law firm.

Find Out What Your Case is Worth

We invite you to reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team. Call (215) 610-3440 or contact us online to learn more.

You should not go anywhere else.
“This firm is the absolute best! Very knowledgeable, pleasant, and amazing!! I recommend this Law firm to anyone with an issue. can't speak highly enough for this firm and it's attorneys! It was truly a wonderful experience.”

- Bennie H.
They handled every aspect of my case with integrity and pride.
“Wonderful customer service. The team at van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin is the real deal. I would definitely recommend them.”

- Former Client
The team is definitely a dream team straight outta Philadelphia Center City!
“I first want to thank this dream team they definitely was a pleasure to work with and I am glad I chose Van der Veen law firm to get the jobs”

- RB
They take full control of your case allowing you to have peace of mind while they win.
“I have been a client of this firm for many years now, and all that I can say is these are the Top Lawyers in the City! My experience over the years have been excellent! Thank you van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin. Job very well done.”

- Quiana
They make my concerns their concerns.
“Thank you for always picking up the phone. I could not have a better firm representing myself, family and my friends. If you want an attorney that gets the job done, Look no more!!! Contact Attorney van der Veen.”

- Leslie L.
Guided me through the process for a success.
“Very satisfied with the way they handled my case, answer all my question, provided me with needed information.”

- Frank A.
Having been represented on different subjects Mike has provided the same outstanding results!
“This law firm has been nothing but the best for my company! Mr. van der Veen has always worked very hard and communicated well with each situation that he has represented me in. I would highly recommend this firm!”

- Sewall M. Jr.
Michael is superb! Great attorney, great team, great job.
“Outcome was better than expected. Forever thankful to Mike’s reliable firm. If you want great results they are your guys. Strongly recommend.”

- Ninel B.

The Basics of DUI Charges in Pennsylvania

State law categorizes DUI offenses into three primary categories, which are based on the level of blood alcohol content (BAC) present at the time of the arrest. These categories split BAC levels accordingly:

General impairment for BAC between 0.08% and 0.1%
High BAC for levels between 0.1% and 0.159%
Highest BAC for any BAC levels above 0.16% or if the driver is under the influence of drugs

State DUI laws also look at factors like whether the driver refused DUI testing, whether the driver has prior DUI offenses, and whether there were any minors present in the vehicle, all of which can severely increase the charges and penalties you are facing.

It is also possible to be charged with a DUI for having a BAC above zero and below 0.08%. If a Philadelphia police officer believes that you are visibly impaired or unable to drive a vehicle safely, they can charge you with a DUI. This impairment can come from any combination of alcohol, controlled substances, or prescription medication. Any driver who refuses chemical testing to verify their BAC can also face additional penalties, like a mandatory license suspension.

The Penalties of a Pennsylvania DUI Conviction

The penalties of any DUI conviction are based on the BAC level, any previous offenses, and other relevant factors. In most cases, first-offense general impairment charges do not have any jail time attached to a conviction, but you may still experience probation, mandatory alcohol education, and fines. A first offense for high BAC charges often includes a suspended license of up to 12 months, up to $5,000 in fines, and mandatory treatment or education programs. A first offense at the highest BAC level has a high likelihood of jail time and even longer treatment programs.

If this is your second or third offense, the penalties for your charges will also escalate. Jail time may become unavoidable, the fines become even larger, and you can lose your license for years. You may also be forced to install an ignition interlock device and pay the costs of installation. There are also collateral consequences on top of legal penalties. For example, it is likely that your insurance premiums will go up. You may also experience difficulties with any professional licenses you have, and you may even have issues securing employment or housing.

A single night of drinking can have a lifetime of consequences, limiting your freedom and damaging your career path. Defend yourself with a seasoned Philadelphia DUI lawyer who knows how to push back against the prosecution at every stage of your case.

What Happens After Your Arrest in Philadelphia

Once you are arrested for a DUI, the legal system can quickly overwhelm you. Our Philadelphia DUI lawyers are here to protect your rights throughout your case, but we will also support your peace of mind. To do this, we want you to know what you can anticipate on the road ahead.

After your arrest, the police will likely submit a formal complaint that outlines the charges they are filing against you. The police will then either release you or hold you until your preliminary arraignment, where you will be informed of your charges and bail conditions by a judge.

Next, the preliminary hearing will require the commonwealth to establish that there is sufficient evidence against you to proceed with a trial. If your case proceeds, you will be formally arraigned and will need to enter a plea. Once the pretrial phase starts, both the defense and prosecution will prepare for evidence discovery, pretrial motions, and even negotiations. If there is no agreed-upon plea deal, your case will go to trial, where either a judge or jury will decide if you are found innocent or guilty. If convicted, you will then be sentenced to penalties that may include jail time, license suspension, and other consequences.

No matter what stage of your case you are in, it is never too late to reach out to our law office. We will always explore any opportunities to build a strong defense with your best interests at heart, keep you informed about how we are helping you, and present you with the paths available to you.

Why Choose a DUI Defense Attorney in Philadelphia, PA, from van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin?

The legal representation you choose should do more than just go through the motions of your case. Any of our Philadelphia DUI lawyers will do everything in their power to develop the strongest possible defense for you. In addition to scrutinizing the police report and any other evidence the prosecution has against you, we will also consult with expert witnesses, look for possible police errors, and explore any opportunities to protect you.

Our legal team is known throughout Pennsylvania and other states for our courtroom results, and we have a long history of handling high-profile and complex cases. Our commitment to our clients leaves us available for contact seven days a week. From the moment you reach out to us, you will receive the compassionate support and aggressive advocacy you expect.

DUI Defense Legal Services: Areas Served

At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, we proudly provide comprehensive DUI defense representation to clients throughout Pennsylvania. Wherever you are located, our legal team is committed to delivering skilled advocacy and personalized defense strategies designed to protect your rights and your future.

We serve clients in the following areas:

Click on your location to learn how our dedicated Pennsylvania DUI defense lawyers tailor every strategy to meet the distinct needs of individuals facing DUI charges in these communities.

Defend Your Future With a Philadelphia DUI Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one is facing a DUI charge, now is the time to act. Time is your most valuable resource when building a strong defense, and acting quickly means you have a stronger chance of protecting your record, license, and freedom. Our lawyers offer free and confidential initial consultations where we will review your case, explain your rights, and help you secure the most favorable outcome possible.

Call us today at (215) 610-3440 or reach out to us online to schedule your initial consultation. The sooner you speak to an experienced DUI attorney in Philadelphia, PA, the sooner we can put our skills and reputation to work for you.

The Person Who Sees The Whole Picture Meet Michael T. van der Veen

From local business owners, to the President of the United States, we fight for everyone's best interest. As founder of the firm, Michael T. van der Veen effortlessly combines accessibility, experience, negotiation, collaboration, and compassion to achieve results. He is the rare trial attorney who excels in both civil litigation and criminal defense. Known for his unwavering commitment to serving as the voice of the victim and advocate for the accused, he has established his reputation by winning multimillion-dollar jury verdicts in State and Federal Courts, as well as winning major criminal trials across the country.

Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Defense in Philadelphia, PA

Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 215-610-3440 today!

It is possible that you will lose your license, depending on factors like your BAC level, if you have prior offenses, or if you refused testing. We will do everything we can to fight your license suspension or apply for limited driving privileges.
In most cases, a DUI will result in misdemeanor charges. However, if someone was hurt or you have multiple convictions, you may be facing felony charges.
Not every first-time DUI offense will result in jail time. We can negotiate to reduce sentencing or explore alternative sentencing, like diversion programs, to keep you out of jail.
You do have the right to refuse a breathalyzer, but there are automatic penalties to that choice. One primary consequence is an automatic license suspension.
Every case has unique needs, which means every cost is different. During your free initial consultation, we can gain a better understanding of what your case will entail and what it will cost.

in their own words

Clients share their experiences and results firsthand

"this law firm has afforded low income people of Philadelphia a relationship with an attorney that they can come and meet. To have a the intuition to give a damn about the little people, and then give them that same kind of respect and consideration is unmatched." -Melvin
"He gives you the impression there’s a person you can count on, a person that you can rely on in terms of having some representation. He kept me informed, he kept me up to date with everything that was going on throughout the process. What doctor, what appointments, who I have to see…I was always very well informed." -Sam
"I love that I have Mike on my side, whenever I question what am I supposed to do? I used to call my dad and after my dad passed, even for things that aren’t always law related, I know I could still call Mike, and I love that about him. He’s just amazing, and I know that if I send somebody here that they’re going to be represented a hundred percent." -Jamie
"He represented me in multiple criminal cases, and I had a lengthy criminal record. He never judged me, and treated me like anybody else, he never looked at me different. He's a real good guy, professional, very honest. When I say I never went to another attorney...he's the best." -Tiffany

the complete coverage advantage

Full-Spectrum
Law

From criminal defense to personal injury and beyond, clients gain seamless, strategic support from a full-service law firm built to handle every legal challenge under one roof.
Values-Driven
Practice

From pro bono advocacy to charitable and community involvement, our attorneys are deeply invested in the people and causes they serve, because real justice includes giving back.
Human-Centered
Advocacy

We stand as the voice of the injured and a strong advocate for the accused. We don’t just see a case, we see the people and futures at stake, and we fight accordingly.
High-Caliber
Results

Our attorneys are nationally recognized, featured in major media, and trusted with the complex, high-stakes cases, because when the outcome matters most, experience matters more.

Safe and Protected with Powerful Representation

Trial Lawyers Excelling in the Areas of Law Most Critical to You and Your Family

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