Getting arrested for a DUI can be a scary process. Where does one start? Do I need an attorney? What is going to happen in the court process?
I often get students, who, by the time they reach my door at allieddui.com for DUI/Risk Reduction Program, have been through the wringer. After getting put in jail, losing their license, finding an attorney and meeting probation requirements people often have a hard time navigating everything they need to have done.
Typically after getting arrested for a first time DUI and bonding out of jail, You will be notified to appear in court. This is a good time to seek counsel with a DUI/Criminal attorney. They are going to be your best bet for a possible reduction in your case. Once your case is adjudicated in court, you will most likely be required to meet certain terms as set by a judge, and enforced by a probation officer.
If you have a suspended driver's license, it is best to be clear and call DDS, to ensure when you are able to get a work permit and when your full reinstatement will be possible. Not every person will lose their license, but many will.
Do you have questions about the best place to do your community service? Do you need DUI/Risk Reduction school? Need an attorney recommendation? Don't understand the court process? Need a clinical evaluation? We aren't attorneys and can't give legal advice, but we do understand the system and can help! Call us at 912.257.3307, we are happy to help you!
It is required by Georgia State law to ensure the following penalties for a first DUI offense. Per the Governor's Office of Highway Safety here are the laws:
First Offense
24 hours Jail Time
Fine of $300 minimum, up to $1,000
License suspension of up to one year
40 hours of community service
One year probation
minimum mandatory $210 license reinstatement fee
a mandatory clinical evaluation and, if indicated, completion of a substance abuse
treatment program at the offender's expense
Victim Impact Panel
Second Offense Within Five Years Of First Offense
Minimum mandatory 48 hours in jail, possible 90 days to one yearFine of $600 minimum, up to $1,000
License suspension of three years
Minimum 30 days community service
$210 set license reinstatement fee
A mandatory clinical evaluation and, if indicated, completion of a substance abuse
treatment program at the offender's expense
Thanks for this useful info. My son just got a DUI and we are worried about helping him to afford all the potential penalties. He is a good kid but just sometimes makes bad choices. I know that's no excuse but it feels good just to write it. We will be in touch soon!
ReplyDeleteLeticia Holt @ KHunter Law
The best thing I did was consult with a DUI attorney. The lawyer made certain my rights were upheld during the arrest process and carefully analyzed dash cam video to ensure the testing was conducted correctly. Your advice about getting a lawyer will allow anyone in this position to have their attorney ask the court to either lessen the charge to reckless driving which carries a much less harsh sentence, or possibly dismiss the case.
ReplyDeleteStephanie, I'm glad you had a positive experience with your attorney, given the circumstances. Even if in a position where a person is getting arrested, they still have rights! An attorney helps to uphold those rights.
DeleteI think by even informing people like you are will bring even more awareness to the subject and consequences of drinking and driving. Most people think they can simply hire the best local attorney and they will get away with probation or a few hours of community service. Judges are getting more frustrated and handing down severe sentences lately to offenders.
ReplyDeleteAttorneys can definitely help to a degree, but yes, more judges are less lenient today than they were even ten years ago. When I started working for MADD at the beginning of my career, almost 500 people a year were being killed in drunk driving crashes in GA. Today, that number is hanging around 275. The goal I have for my business is to give people the information they need to prevent it all together. Thanks for your comment!
DeleteAttorneys can definitely help to a degree, but yes, more judges are less lenient today than they were even ten years ago. When I started working for MADD at the beginning of my career, almost 500 people a year were being killed in drunk driving crashes in GA. Today, that number is hanging around 275. The goal I have for my business is to give people the information they need to prevent it all together. Thanks for your comment!
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