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An Experienced Pittsburgh Attorney Who Protects The Rights Of The Criminally Accused

Knowledgeable Pittsburgh DUI/DWI Attorney Protecting Your License And Freedom

Being charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) carries severe consequences: loss of license, heavy fines, higher insurance costs and even jail time. If you were stopped and charged in the Westmoreland County, Greensburg, Latrobe, Monessen area or anywhere in Pennsylvania, you need a determined defense – not excuses.

I am Ryan M. Tutera. For over 20 years, I have been the attorney clients hire when their freedom is on the line. I know breathalyzers can be unreliable and police procedures can be flawed. My commitment is to deliver the highest level of criminal defense to challenge the evidence and help you pursue a positive outcome.

Relentless Defense: Challenging Every Part Of The Stop

At my firm, I may be able to have charges dismissed by demonstrating that a procedural or equipment error resulted in an unfair charge. My approach is simple: I find the flaws in the prosecution’s case.

I will aggressively examine every step law enforcement took, including:

  • The stop: Police must be able to demonstrate “reasonable suspicion” to pull you over. I challenge whether the stop itself was legal.
  • The sobriety test: There are specific, strict rules police must follow when giving Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs) and measuring blood alcohol concentration (BAC). If the police got it wrong, the results should be thrown out.
  • The equipment: Breathalyzer machines have provided inaccurate results in the past. Their maintenance records and inherent reliability can and will be questioned.
  • The arrest and rights: For a valid arrest, an officer must properly inform you of your Miranda rights and the consequences of refusing a chemical test.
  • The evidence chain: Blood and other samples must be stored in specific conditions to maintain their integrity. I scrutinize the handling of all physical evidence.

As your DUI lawyer, I strive to get you the respect you deserve and the results your future demands.

Trusted Counselor: Handling A DUI Stop

If the police pulled you over on suspicion of drunk driving, knowing your rights is your best defense:

  • Remain calm and be polite: Law enforcement can interpret a nervous or hostile reaction as impairment or suspicion. Keep your responses measured.
  • Do not consent to a search: Police can use any evidence found in your car to support a DUI/DWI conviction. Politely refuse any search without a warrant.
  • Take the breathalyzer test: Refusing a test results in an immediate, automatic license suspension. The results of a breathalyzer can always be challenged later in court, but the refusal penalty is often non-negotiable.
  • Get a blood test after release: It is wise to obtain your own independent blood test as soon as possible after arrest. At trial, your attorney can use this evidence to raise possible defenses.

If police arrest and charge you with a DUI or DWI, contact a DUI/DWI attorney immediately. At The Law Office of Ryan M. Tutera, I can start working on your defense as soon as you enlist my services.

Kind Guidance: Answering Your DUI/DWI Questions

When facing a DUI/DWI charge, you have immediate questions about the process and your rights. Below are answers to two common concerns my clients raise:

Do I have to go to court for a DUI if I have a lawyer?

The judge may excuse your presence in many DUI cases, particularly for preliminary matters or hearings. However, you will be required to attend all mandatory court dates, including trial (if necessary), plea hearings and sentencing. I will advise you precisely which court appearances require your presence.

What are the chances of getting a DUI dismissed?

The chances of dismissal depend entirely on the facts of your case. There is no set percentage. Dismissal is often achieved by successfully challenging the stop, the field sobriety tests, the BAC readings or the arrest procedure. If police violate a constitutional right or fail to follow protocol, the court may dismiss the case, and I aggressively pursue those avenues for every client.

Your Defense Starts Now: Schedule Your Private Consultation

If you have been arrested for DUI or DWI, don’t wait. The right defense can mean the difference between conviction and freedom.. Call my office in Pittsburgh today at 412-899-3817 or contact me online to set up your consultation.