Pennsylvania Laws and Legal Penalties
Comprehensive legal reference for Pennsylvania. Browse DUI laws, drug possession penalties, theft charges, statutes of limitations, and more. All information is sourced from public state statutes.
Note: This information is for general educational purposes only. Laws change frequently. Always consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney for advice specific to your situation.
Pennsylvania Quick Facts
- State Capital: Harrisburg
- Region: Northeast
- DUI BAC Limit: 0.08%
- Marijuana Status: Decriminalized/Medical
- Felony Theft Threshold: $2,000+
- Murder SOL: None
Pennsylvania DUI Laws
| Offense | Penalties |
|---|---|
| First Offense DUI | Up to 6 months probation, $300 fine, 12-month suspension |
| Second Offense DUI | 5 days–6 months, $300–$2,500 fine, 12-month suspension |
| Felony DUI Threshold | 3rd offense |
| Legal BAC Limit | 0.08% |
Pennsylvania has tiered DUI system based on BAC level
Pennsylvania Marijuana Laws
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Status | Decriminalized/Medical |
| Medical Program | Yes |
| Recreational Use | No |
| Small Amount Penalty | Misdemeanor: up to 30 days, $500 fine (30g or less) |
| Large Amount Penalty | Felony for larger amounts |
Pennsylvania has medical marijuana; decriminalized in some cities
Pennsylvania Theft Penalties
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Misdemeanor Threshold | Under $2,000 |
| Felony Threshold | $2,000+ or more |
| Minimum Sentence | Up to 5 years (3rd degree felony) |
| Maximum Sentence | Up to 20 years (1st degree felony theft) |
Pennsylvania theft in degrees based on value
Pennsylvania Statutes of Limitations
| Crime Type | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Murder | None |
| Rape / Sexual Assault | None (12 years for some) |
| Felony (General) | 2 years |
| Misdemeanor | 2 years |
| Fraud | 2 years |
| Theft | 2 years |
| DUI / DWI | 2 years |
| Assault | 2 years |
Pennsylvania murder and voluntary manslaughter have no SOL