We Take Georgia DUI Charges Seriously
Getting charged with driving under the influence is often just the beginning of the nightmare. Georgia takes drunk driving very seriously, and the penalties could vary depending on the level of intoxication and number of previous offenses. You could be facing penalties such as:
- Court-ordered rehabilitation courses
- Jail time
- Driver’s license suspension or revocation
- Hefty fees and fines
- Community service
In addition to the penalties that could come with a conviction, you could also have consequences in your personal life including termination from your job or changes in child custody arrangements.
Put Our Experience To Work For You
The lawyers of Mills ꞏ Walls ꞏ Alioto have been helping people fight DUI and other criminal charges for over 20 years. Our attorneys understand the long-term effect of a DUI conviction, and we can help you build your defense.
The best defense is one that starts early. Talking to a lawyer as soon as possible helps you have the most options available for dealing with a DUI. We will fight to help you get the best possible settlement for your case. Depending on your situation, we may be able to help you get the charges reduced or completely removed so you can move forward.
Answers To Your DUI Questions
Facing a DUI charge brings uncertainty and stress. Many of our clients come to us with similar concerns about what happens next and how to protect their rights. Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions we hear from people in your situation.
What should I do immediately after being charged with a DUI?
Contact a qualified DUI defense attorney right away. You usually have just 30 days from your arrest date to request a hearing that could prevent automatic license suspension. During this critical period, avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your attorney. Write down everything you can recall about your traffic stop and arrest, including what the officer said, how the tests were conducted, and any unusual circumstances.
Can I refuse a breathalyzer or field sobriety test in Georgia?
You can decline these tests, but there are consequences. Under Georgia’s implied consent statute, drivers who refuse chemical testing face automatic administrative penalties, including a 12-month license suspension for first-time refusals. Field sobriety tests are not mandatory, and choosing not to perform them cannot be held against you in criminal court. However, the decision to refuse chemical testing involves complex legal considerations that an attorney can explain based on your circumstances.
Can I still drive after being charged with a DUI?
Following your arrest, Georgia law typically permits you to continue driving for 30 days. During this window, you must decide whether to appeal the pending administrative suspension of your driving privileges. Missing this deadline results in automatic suspension. Depending on your eligibility, you might qualify for restricted driving privileges through a limited permit or by installing an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
How long does a DUI stay on my record in Georgia?
A DUI conviction becomes a permanent part of your criminal history in Georgia with no option for removal or sealing. When calculating enhanced penalties for repeat offenses, the state examines convictions from the previous 10 years. Because even a single conviction carries lasting consequences and affects how future charges are handled, mounting a strong defense against your current charge is essential.
How does a DUI affect my car insurance?
Your insurance premiums will likely rise substantially after a DUI conviction, sometimes increasing by 150% or more. Certain insurers may choose to drop your coverage entirely. As someone considered high-risk, you may need SR-22 certification, which verifies that you maintain minimum state-required insurance levels. Expect these higher insurance costs to continue for approximately three to five years after your conviction.
Get Started On Your Defense With A Free Consultation
Establishing a strong defense is critical in a DUI case. We can help you understand the charges against you and help you understand your options. Call our Lawrenceville office at 678-769-3395 or 888-471-0397 or contact us online to set up a free consultation.