Author Archives: David R. Eshelman
Facing the Harsh Consequences of an Underage DUI in Pennsylvania
As a parent, it is easy to take the position that “ignorance is bliss” and presume that our kids do not drink alcohol before driving home from bars and parties. Unfortunately, statistics regarding the prevalence of teen drinking by high school students and those attending colleges in the vicinity, including Penn State University Berks, Albright […]
Proposed New Legislation to Reduce Penalties for Teen Sexting
While vast improvements in communication technology offer many benefits, some of these innovations lead to new types of criminal violations. Many parents do not suspect that text messaging can result in their kids facing criminal charges, but prosecutors in Pennsylvania and around the country are becoming extremely aggressive about pursuing sexting activity as child pornography. […]
Does DUI Law Unfairly Discriminate against Women?
There is a common misperception among many that driving under the influence and driving under the influence (DUI) arrests are skewed toward men. This myth is perpetuated by the stereotype of men visiting the bar after work to blow off steam or watch a game. In 2009, CNN reported that women arrested for DUI increased […]
Why You Should Just Say No When Stopped for a DUI
When you glance in the rearview mirror and see flashing lights after a night of watching the Steelers or Eagles game at a local bar, you may experience an overwhelming sense of dread. A conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) in Reading can threaten your freedom, bank account and job. The anxiety that many […]
Protecting Your Commercial Drivers License When Charged with DUI
Commercial drivers arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Reading or the surrounding area face the potential loss of livelihood along with other severe DUI penalties. Pennsylvania has some of the toughest DUI laws when it comes to those with commercial driver’s licenses (CDL). The blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is lower for those […]
How Does Mouth Alcohol Affect My Pennsylvania DUI Case?
Most Pennsylvania drivers understand that they may be arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Pennsylvania if they have been consuming beer, wine or cocktails prior to driving. Fewer people are aware that they may be arrested based on inaccurate breath test results after consuming other substances, such as: Mouthwash Tobacco Cough syrup What […]
What Happens During a Field Sobriety Test?
When you are stopped by the police for suspected driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the officer typically administers a number of field sobriety tests to determine whether you are drunk. These tests are used to determine probable cause to arrest and request chemical testing — breath, blood or urine testing. Although you […]
What You Should Know about the Pennsylvania Accelerated Rehabilitative Program (ARD)
Pennsylvania offers a unique Accelerated Rehabilitative Program (ARD) for first-time DUI offenders. The goal of the program is to avoid drawn-out court proceedings — and prevent future offenses — by giving first-time offenders the opportunity to expunge their criminal records through meeting certain court-ordered conditions. These include drug and alcohol counseling, restitution, and community service. […]
What to Do if You are Falsely Accused of Child Molestation
Child molestation is an emotionally charged crime that sparks public anger and cries for justice. The anger stems from growing public awareness of how personally devastating sexual abuse can be to children. Reaction is often swift and decisive to keep our children safe. In many states, professionals like teachers, social workers and healthcare providers are […]
Do I Need a Lawyer if I Know I am Innocent?
While it is unfathomable, it is possible to find yourself under arrest for a crime you did not commit. As you grapple with the reality of your unfortunate and unfair circumstances, you must focus on your defense. Even though you know you are innocent, the justice department is overburdened with cases. In your traumatized and […]
