Pittsburgh Pilot DUI Attorney

Navigating DUI Charges as a Pilot in Pittsburgh

Are you a pilot who has been charged with a DUI? This situation can put you at risk of having your driver’s license suspended or revoked. Beyond the local legal system, you also have obligations to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). A first-time DUI offense might not prompt the FAA to take immediate action against you. However, a second or third conviction carries much more serious consequences and will likely lead to significant FAA intervention.

How a Criminal Lawyer Can Assist You

Facing a DUI arrest can be an overwhelming experience, but a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer can help you understand the necessary next steps. An attorney will stand by you throughout court proceedings, offering guidance on how to plead your case. They will also clarify the specific procedures for reporting your DUI conviction to the FAA, ensuring every detail is handled correctly. This professional support is vital for navigating both the legal and administrative challenges you face.

The Importance of FAA Reporting

Under FAA regulations, all pilots are required to self-report any DUI incidents. Failing to disclose a DUI to the FAA can result in consequences more severe than the offense itself. Even a first-time offense, if not reported, could lead to the suspension or revocation of your pilot’s license. It’s crucial to avoid making errors during this reporting process, which could unnecessarily jeopardize your license. An experienced Pittsburgh DUI attorney can manage this reporting process for you, even submitting the report on your behalf to guarantee it’s done accurately and on time. Typically, you have 60 days from the date of the incident to submit this report.

Disclosing DUIs on Your Airman Medical Certificate Application

When you complete your Application for Airman Medical Certificate, you must disclose all current and past DUI convictions. This includes incidents that were dismissed or those for which you attended a rehabilitation program. Failing to report any of these incidents can have a devastating impact on your career. Being transparent about your history is essential. Hiding past or dismissed convictions is considered a criminal act. The application provides specific instructions on how to report DUIs, so it is vital to read them carefully. You should consult a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer for advice on the proper way to disclose this sensitive information when applying for your Airman Medical Certificate.

Understanding the Consequences of Repeated Offenses

While a first-time DUI offense may not affect your medical certificate, the FAA takes repeated offenses very seriously. Your certificate could be invalidated until you undergo a formal substance abuse evaluation. It’s crucial to understand that even dismissed charges or incidents followed by rehabilitation must be reported. A lack of full transparency can lead to negative outcomes. Do not attempt to hide past convictions, as the application has clear instructions for disclosure. Following these directions carefully is key to reporting everything correctly. A Pittsburgh DUI attorney can provide guidance on how to properly disclose information on your application.

Protect Your Career and Your Future

Losing a professional license can be a life-altering event. It is strongly advised not to handle this complex process without consulting a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer, as there is no room for error. If you or someone you know has been arrested for a DUI, contact the Mountaineer Criminal Law Group immediately. We can help you take the necessary steps to prevent the revocation of both your driving and professional licenses. To schedule an initial consultation, please call us at (304) 381-3656.

And that’s why you need to seek help from a Pittsburgh DUI attorney right away.