DUI Controlled Substance Defense
For controlled substance DUI defense in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, consider the Law Office of Steven F. O’Meara. With over 30 years of legal experience, Attorney O’Meara represents clients facing serious charges for driving under the influence of a controlled substance—including prescription medications, illegal drugs, and combination cases involving both drugs and alcohol. Located at 14 S Orange St, Media, PA 19063, the firm is available 24 hours a day. Call 610-565-9200 for a free consultation.
Whether your arrest was related to a traffic stop, an accident, or a checkpoint, the stakes are high. Pennsylvania courts treat drug-related DUIs as serious offenses, often with harsher penalties than alcohol-based DUIs. Even a first offense can lead to license suspension, jail time, mandatory treatment, and a lifelong criminal record. These cases often move quickly—and having a skilled defense attorney from the start can significantly impact the outcome. Attorney O’Meara knows what’s at stake and will work with you directly to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.
Understanding DUI Involving a Controlled Substance
Pennsylvania law allows prosecutors to pursue DUI charges if a controlled substance—legal or illegal—is found in your system while you’re operating a vehicle. This includes substances such as marijuana, heroin, cocaine, methamphetamines, and even legally prescribed medications like Xanax or Adderall if they impair your ability to drive safely.
These cases are complex because they often rely on chemical testing results and officer observations. But what many people don’t realize is that the presence of a drug in your system does not necessarily prove impairment at the time of driving. That’s why building a strong defense requires both legal knowledge and an understanding of how drug metabolism works.
Charged with DUI for Drugs or Medications? We Can Help
A DUI controlled substance charge can result in jail time, fines, license suspension, and a criminal record—even for first-time offenders. Whether your case involves illegal drugs or legally prescribed medications, The Law Office of Steven F. O’Meara offers strategic, experienced defense in Delaware County. Call 610-565-9200 for a free consultation and get the legal support you need to fight back.DUI Controlled Substance – First Offense in Pennsylvania
A first-time DUI controlled substance offense is still considered a Tier III violation under Pennsylvania law—the most serious DUI category. Even without prior convictions, the penalties are substantial and include mandatory jail time, thousands in fines, a 12-month license suspension, and completion of court-ordered treatment programs.
What makes these cases especially frustrating is that even responsible use of medication—when not paired with unsafe driving—can still lead to charges if the police believe your ability to drive was impaired. Many people are shocked to find themselves facing criminal charges after following their doctor’s instructions.
Fighting a Controlled Substance DUI Charge
If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence of a controlled substance, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. You may be worried about losing your license, your job, or your reputation. These fears are valid—but you are not without options.
Attorney O’Meara takes a thorough, compassionate approach to every case. He starts by carefully examining how the traffic stop occurred and whether there was probable cause to pull you over. From there, he’ll assess the testing methods used, including how and when the blood or urine sample was taken, whether protocols were followed, and whether the results could have been affected by delays or lab errors. If you were taking prescription medication, he’ll make sure the court understands that legal use does not automatically equal impairment. His goal is always to minimize penalties, reduce charges, or pursue a full dismissal whenever possible.
Every case is unique. That’s why your defense deserves a personalized strategy—one built on experience, attention to detail, and a genuine understanding of what you’re going through.
Why Choose The Law Office of Steven F. O’Meara?
Controlled substance DUI charges demand more than just basic legal knowledge—they require skill, precision, and commitment. Steven F. O’Meara brings over three decades of criminal defense experience to every case. He doesn’t hand your file off to junior staff or rush you through the process. From your first consultation to the final outcome, you’ll work directly with the attorney you hired.
He understands how a single mistake—or a misunderstanding—can put your entire future at risk. That’s why he builds your case with care and fights hard for every client.
Client Testimonials
Read about the experiences our clients have had with the Law Office of Steven F. O’Meara.
We had an unfortunate incident with our son and after reviewing the case Mr. O’Meara assured us that everything would be okay. Nobody wants to have to hire a lawyer, but if you do, Mr. O’Meara is definitely the guy. He is honest and caring and demonstrates legal expertise that gets the job done. We are so thankful we found him to help our son.
Steve did a great job on two separate matters. He told me not to worry, that he would handle everything. He did. He got a DUI charge suppressed and a second matter resolved to my favor without any license suspensions whatsoever. I highly recommend Steven O’Meara. I’m super grateful for all the help I received from him. His legal assistant did a great job too. She was always quick in notifying me of court date changes and updates. Thank you both very much for your hard work and excellence.
Did You Know?
In Pennsylvania, the presence of a controlled substance—even a lawfully prescribed one—can lead to a DUI charge if an officer believes your driving was impaired. The law doesn’t differentiate between street drugs and medications that were given to you by a doctor. In fact, many drivers don’t realize that medications for anxiety, pain, or even ADHD can impact motor skills or reaction time in a way that police may interpret as dangerous.
That’s why cases involving drugs—especially combination cases involving both controlled substances and alcohol—are often more complicated than standard DUIs. Knowing your rights and working with a lawyer who understands the nuances of drug-based DUI law is critical.
To learn more, you can review Pennsylvania’s statute on controlled substance DUIs via the Pennsylvania General Assembly – Title 75 § 3802(d), which outlines the legal framework prosecutors use in these cases.
If you’re unsure whether your charge qualifies for dismissal or reduction, don’t wait. An experienced DUI attorney can help clarify your options and get to work building your defense immediately.
