The Consequences Of A First-Time DUI Conviction In Georgia
If you are charged with a first-time DUI in Georgia, you may be in utter turmoil; perhaps even questioning what the future has in store for you. A seasoned DUI lawyer located in Marietta, I can paint a picture of what may happen if you have been convicted of a first-time DUI in the state of Georgia, guiding you through the maze of potential legal impacts.
Legal Consequences Of A First-Time DUI
1. Criminal Penalties – In Georgia, a first-time DUI is generally considered a misdemeanor. The sentence, however, is not mild. If one is convicted, he or she could be fined from $300 to $1,000, and he or she could be put in jail for ten days to 12 months. Quite frequently, the judge may decide to suspend the sentence in jail except for a minimum of 24 hours, depending on the circumstances of your case, as stated in O.C.G.A. ยง 40-6-391.
2. License Suspension – First-time DUI offenders may expect a license suspension of 120 days, you might be allowed to apply for a limited driving permit that grants you permission to travel to work, school, medical care, and other related essential services. You will need to complete the course entitled DUI Alcohol or Drug Use Risk Reduction Program and pay the reinstatement fee to get your full driving privileges reinstated.
3. Probation – This usually is part of the sentence for DUI and can be up to one year-12 months. Under this, you are expected to comply with specific conditions as ordered by the court. These may be in the form of frequent visits to a probation officer, alcohol and drug evaluation, attending DUI school, and performing community service.
Effects On Your Personal Life And Career
1. Employment – A DUI conviction can surely affect your scope of employment, especially in cases where driving is required by your job. Any employer will be very hesitant to hire you due to the liabilities involved.
2. Education – Disciplinary actions may be taken by the educational institutions that might amount to suspension or expulsion. Also, DUI could affect your eligibility for certain scholarships or even academic programs.
3. Insurance Rates – One of the biggest shocks you could get from a DUI conviction is the immense increase in motor vehicle insurance rates. Due to the fact that DUI offenders are considered high-risk drivers, insurance companies may raise your insurance premiums almost to double.
Long-Term Consequences
A DUI will go on your criminal record if you are convicted of it; this can be accessed by potential employers and others. Professional licenses, housing opportunities, and certain types of work may be affected. There’s often associated social stigma with a DUI conviction that impacts your relationships in the community and with your personal contacts.
Georgia DUI Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do Immediately After I Am Arrested For A DUI In Georgia?
First and foremost, following an arrest for DUI, one should keep calm and invoke their right to silence. A DUI attorney should be contacted promptly so that your case may be discussed and preparation of your DUI defense begins.
Can I Refuse To Take The Breath Test In Georgia?
You do have a right to refuse, but if you are pulled over under suspicion of a DUI and refuse to take the breath test, your license can be automatically suspended for 12 months due to Georgia’s implied consent law.
Can A DUI Charge In Georgia Be Reduced?
Yes, with effective legal representation, it may be possible to negotiate a plea to a lesser charge, such as reckless driving, depending on the specifics of your case and your prior legal history.
What Are Some Good Reasons One Would Want To Hire A DUI Attorney?
One will be enlightened on their rights, how the processes of the court work, and what kind of defense one should use by hiring a DUI attorney. They can negotiate on your behalf to arrive at the best possible outcome, such as reduced charges or penalties.
How Does A DUI Conviction Affect Driving Privileges In Other States?
Although you have a Georgia driver’s license, a DUI conviction can affect your driving privileges over state lines, thanks to the Interstate Driver’s License Compact. The member states report DUI convictions and the penalties or suspensions can be inflicted on you even outside Georgia.
What If I Am Under 21 And Get Charged With A DUI In Georgia?
Zero tolerance under age 21 means in Georgia that if you are less than 21 years old and found with 0.02% or more alcohol in your blood, then you will be booked under DUI. Some of the penalties imposed include at least six months’ suspension of license, fine, and community service or even jail, depending upon certain circumstances.
Is There A Possibility Of An Expungement Of My First DUI From The Records In Georgia?
A DUI conviction in Georgia will always be on your criminal record. If you have been arrested for DUI and not convicted, you may be eligible to have the arrest restricted from your criminal record or sealed. This can be an incredibly complicated process and usually should be discussed with a knowledgeable DUI attorney.
What Are Some Of The Financial Penalties For A First-Time DUI Conviction?
Besides the fines imposed by the court, there are significantly huge hidden costs associated with a DUI conviction; these include increased insurance premiums, fees for education programs, probation fees, and a possible loss of income due to time spent in court or incarceration. The overall cost can reach into the thousands of dollars, hence being notably expensive.
How Do I Prepare For My DUI Court Appearance In Georgia?
To prepare for court for a DUI, you want to obtain all documents and evidence regarding your case, including police reports and statements from any witnesses, and go through those with your attorney to determine your defense. Dress accordingly, and come to the court early to make sure you have plenty of time to discuss last-minute information with your attorney.
Would Someone Serving Their First DUI In Georgia Possibly Have Alternatives Available Other Than Serving Jail Time?
Other options may include probation, DUI school, community service, or an alcohol treatment program for first-time offenders. Again, the discretion of the judge and the facts of your case determine all these other options.
What Do I Do If A Police Officer Stops Me And Suspects Me Of DUI?
If stopped by police and suspected of DUI, be courteous and obedient, but only produce your license and registration if asked to do so. You should state that you will not answer any other questions until you have spoken with a lawyer. You have the right to refuse to take a breathalyzer test; however, remember that if you are arrested for DUI, according to Georgia’s implied consent law, it is considered automatic license suspension if the driver refuses to take this test.
How Does A DUI Affect My Ability To Rent A Vehicle?
Many car rental companies check driving records and may deny renting vehicles to individuals with a DUI conviction. This affects an individual’s capacity to rent a car for varying timeframes amongst companies, but they can do this for several years after a DUI conviction.
Can A DUI Conviction Affect My Professional License?
Yes, a DUI conviction can indeed affect professional licenses, especially those that rely on driving or those with high background checks, such as health care, law enforcement, and education. It is important that the conviction be reported to the licensing board and that one seek an attorney who can sort out possible effects on one’s professional status.
Contact Our Marietta DUI Attorney For Your Free Consultation
A charge of DUI in Georgia has serious consequences, and the nuances in DUI law demand expert legal counsel. At The Mazloom Law Firm, LLC, we appreciate the stress and uncertainty that come hand in hand with DUI charges. We vow to aggressively defend you by providing quality defense and personalized legal strategies to suit your unique situation. If you find yourself in Marietta, Atlanta, or any of the surrounding counties, don’t hesitate to contact our Marietta DUI attorney by calling 770-590-9837 to receive your free consultation to discuss your case. Your best defense begins here.
