What if I Refuse a Breathalyzer?

What if I Refuse a Breathalyzer?

Often people ask the question, Should I have refused that breathalyzer?  The answer is not always a simple one.  Technically, when you sign that line for your Georgia's driver's license, you have also signed your right away to refuse the breathalyzer.  This is what we call implied consent.  However, people every day refuse the chemical test--unsure if it is the right thing or not.  When one refused the breathalyzer or even a blood test, there are some inherent consequences, set forth by the state of Georgia--and you can still be charged with a DUI.

The officer is looking for proof of what he has probable cause to charge you with.  After refusing the breathalyzer, urine or blood test, you have 10 days to submit to the Department of Driver Services, your license suspension letter of appeal. See, the officer in this case is likely going to submit that your license gets suspended, and on the 31st day of your arrest, it will be, unless you attend the ALS hearing.  With some cases, the prosecution can use your breathalyzer refusal as an admission of guilt.

Minor in Possession

What happens if I get charged with a Minor in Possession of Alcohol?  This happens often, especially in the Savannah and Statesboro areas. And even if you don't think it's a big deal, the government does.  Unfortunately it's not about moral aptitude or if you just had a drink at a party.  If you are under 21 years of age, the government can and often does give people tickets for this.  Georgia state law 3-3-23 states that "No person under 21 years of age shall purchase, attempt to purchase, or knowingly possess any alcoholic beverage..."  

So you got an MIP and now what?  It is a criminal offense and it is in your best interest to seek legal counsel.  You can lose your license for up to 6 months and be sentenced to take Risk Reduction Class, which is the same as the one we offer over at www.allieddui.com.  Allied Learning Center, located in Savannah, GA, can help you meet your legal requirements