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An arrest for driving under the influence (DUI) comes with significant legal consequences. This type of conviction could result in jail time, fines, license suspension, and more. Depending on if you have a previous DUI on your record, it can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
With your personal and professional future at stake, you need to consult an Atlanta DUI lawyer when you are charged with drunk driving. Hiring a criminal defense attorney who has knowledge of DUI laws and experience with the process could give you the best outcome possible. A conviction for a DUI could make it difficult for you to secure employment, housing, and can limit other opportunities. Contact our office to schedule a free and confidential consultation.
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a criminal offense. The states DUI laws apply to those operating a vehicle or in physical control of one. A driver who is not able to drive safely due to alcohol or drugs is considered under the influence. Someone could also be convicted of a per se DUI when they have a blood alcohol count of .08% or more, regardless of if they were actually impaired. A DUI could result from:
When you are charged with drunk driving, be sure to consult a defense attorney in Atlanta about your options.
The legal consequences for a DUI conviction depend on whether the defendant has had a previous conviction for drunk driving. A DUI conviction will remain on someone’s record for 10 years.
When someone is charged with a first offense DUI, they will be subject to a misdemeanor conviction and:
However, the actual sentence will turn on the nature of the charges and the judge’s discretion.
A person convicted of a second DUI within 10 years will be charged with a misdemeanor and could face:
Those charged with a third DUI within a 10-year period are charged with a misdemeanor. If convicted they face:
Drivers who have their license permanently revoked can apply for a restricted license after three years have passed.
In certain instances, a DUI will result in a felony charge. A fourth or subsequent DUI is charged as a felony. Likewise, when a driver causes an accident resulting in injury or death because they were intoxicated, they can be charged with injury under the influence or fatality under the influence. Both offenses carry significant penalties including three to 15 years in prison and fines up to $100,000. An attorney in Atlanta could work to try and get drunk driving penalties mitigated in court.
When you are arrested for driving under the influence, you are probably weighing your options and the potential impact of the charges on your future. We understand how overwhelming a DUI charge can be. When you hire an Atlanta DUI lawyer to defend you we can advocate on your behalf for the best possible result under the circumstances. Call our office to schedule a consultation and discuss your defense.