What are the penalties for a first DUI offense in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, individuals convicted of a first DUI offense face a combination of penalties designed to deter future violations and promote rehabilitation. The correct answer includes the possibility of up to 6 months of probation, fines, and participation in treatment programs.

For a first offense, penalties can vary depending on the individual's blood alcohol content (BAC) at the time of the offense. For instance, those with a BAC of 0.08% to 0.099% typically face a period of probation, fines ranging from $300 to $500, and may also be required to attend alcohol treatment programs. Furthermore, individuals can be subjected to a maximum of 6 months of probation, which serves as a form of supervision during this time to encourage compliance with the law and to mitigate the risk of future offenses.

The option that mentions only fines does not capture the comprehensive nature of penalties associated with a DUI conviction. Moreover, while community service may be a component of some sentencing outcomes, it is not universally mandated for all first-offense DUI cases in Pennsylvania. Therefore, the most complete and accurate understanding of the penalties includes the potential for probation, fines, and mandatory treatment programs, encapsulated in the selected response.