What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Uniontown, PA?

By Patrick Crowe

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Criminal Defense

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Last Modified on May 20, 2026

Getting arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) can feel overwhelming. At Crowe Law, LLC, many people ask us, “What happens after a DUI arrest in Uniontown, PA?” There are several legal steps to be aware of, including booking, court appearances, and license suspensions. Learning more about what happens once you are arrested can help you navigate the system with clarity during this stressful time.

Understanding DUI Charges in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, DUI charges are taken extremely seriously due to the danger that drinking and driving causes to you and others on the road. In 2024, there were 7,745 alcohol-related crashes in Pennsylvania, and a total of 11,904 deaths from drunk-driving accidents across the country.

You can be arrested for a DUI if:

• A law enforcement officer reasonably suspects you of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is over 0.08%.

An officer may use field sobriety tests or personal observations to arrest you.

Steps to Take Immediately After Being Arrested in Uniontown

The moments after you are arrested can be confusing and stressful, but what you do next can have a real impact on your ability to defend against DUI charges. During the arrest and afterward, remain cooperative with the police.

Officers will likely take you to a location such as the Uniontown Police Department, Fayette County Booking Center, or the Pennsylvania State Police Uniontown Station for booking. This will involve collecting your basic personal information, fingerprints, and photographs. You will likely have to undergo chemical testing as well.

While you should comply with the police, it is also important to understand what rights you have during this process. Key rights to remember include:

• The right to remain silent
• The right to a lawyer
• The right to a hearing and a fair trial

One of the most important ways to protect your rights and avoid providing evidence, which can be used against you, is by being silent about any details of the case, so do not answer questions from law enforcement about the offense. If you are asked about the offense, request to contact a Uniontown DUI attorney; then, remain silent. A lawyer can help you avoid accidental self-incrimination and explain what the next steps are for your case.

Understanding What Happens Next After an Arrest

After you are arrested and booked, you may be:

• Held in jail
• Released on bail
• Released on your own recognizance

At this time, you are awaiting your first hearing before a judge, who will determine whether there is enough evidence for your case to move forward. If the DUI case proceeds, there is an arraignment hearing, where your charges are read to you, and you can enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.

From here, you and your lawyer can prepare for your trial. To do this, your lawyer can:

• Evaluate evidence from the arrest and the alleged offense.
• Explain the applicable DUI laws.
• Negotiate with prosecutors to reach a plea bargain.
• Explore potential diversion programs.

One option your lawyer may pursue is Pennsylvania’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition Program.

While your criminal case is just beginning, administrative penalties can also happen, such as a license suspension. If you hire a DUI lawyer, they can manage the many steps happening at this phase of your DUI case. They can also explain the various restrictions and penalties you are experiencing.

Why You Should Hire a DUI Lawyer Before Your Trial

Hiring a lawyer early in a DUI case can lead to favorable outcomes, such as a not guilty verdict, reduced charges, or dismissed charges. DUI laws are detailed and have strict procedural requirements, so even small missteps, such as refusing a chemical test, can lead to harsh penalties. A Uniontown DUI attorney understands the DUI system and can help you avoid these severe consequences.

Crowe Law, LLC: Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers

At Crowe Law, LLC, we have experience with over 200 cases in Pennsylvania and West Carolina. Patrick Crowe works tirelessly to protect the rights of those facing DUI charges. He can build strategic defenses that work to minimize the impact of criminal charges on their future.

FAQs

How Likely Is Jail Time for a First DUI in Pennsylvania?

How likely you are to be sentenced to jail time for a first DUI mainly depends on the circumstances of your case. If your BAC was between 0.08 and 0.1%, you are unlikely to face jail time and may instead have up to six months of probation. For a higher BAC, you may face jail time. For example, a BAC of between 0.1 and 0.159% may result in between 48 hours and six months of prison.

How Often Do DUI Cases Get Dismissed?

DUI cases are not frequently dismissed, but it does happen if there is not a strong case or if there are procedural issues. Common reasons why cases are dismissed include unlawful traffic stops, misadministered chemical tests, and violations of constitutional rights. A Uniontown DUI lawyer can explain if you should pursue dismissal or use another strategy to reduce penalties.

Do You Go Straight to Jail for a DUI?

In most DUI cases, you do not go straight to jail immediately after an arrest, though it is possible. Typically, you are booked and then released on bail or your own recognizance. In more serious cases, such as repeat offenses or high BAC levels, the court may decide to hold you in jail until your hearing, though this is rare.

Will You Lose Your Driver’s License After a DUI Arrest?

You may have your license suspended after a DUI arrest. Additionally, these suspensions do not typically wait for the results of your criminal trial, meaning you may lose your driving privileges, even before facing other penalties. A first DUI offense with a BAC below 0.1% typically does not result in a suspension, but repeated offenses or a higher BAC may lead to a suspension.

Reach Out to a Skilled Uniontown DUI Lawyer

If you have been arrested, contact Crowe Law, LLC, right away. Our lawyers can represent you during an arrest, investigation, and trial to protect your rights and future.