DUI Traffic Stop and DUI Arrest

There are both civil and criminal elements to a case based on driving under the influence. The criminal legal process is virtually impossible to navigate without an attorney. There are critical deadlines, specific paperwork, different courts, and the daunting task of reviewing evidence and the arrest procedure. The prosecutor's office is not going to help you, but our law firm will certainly help you.

After your arrest, your anxiety and worries will increase until you transfer the heavy burden to experienced, competent DUI lawyers.

After your arrest, the absolute best thing to do, is to contact DUI attorneys Ross Grisham or Scott Poole who can explain the DUI process to you, including the possible results, and costs to fight a DUI in Georgia. Our law firm will make all reasonable efforts to work with you on payments for legal services, and scheduling convenient times to meet.

After Your DUI Arrest

Every action you take after your arrest should be to fight and win. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. A criminal record, even for a DUI, may cost you your job, cause other issues where personal credibility matters.

After your arrest, the police and the prosecutor’s office work together to build a case to convict you. The prosecutor will likely recommend that the judge decides for tough consequences. Hiring a DUI defense attorney allows you to get control of your situation.

DUI Sentencing in Georgia

In Georgia, there are rigid DUI Sentencing Guidelines which the court will apply to your case if you are convicted. Georgia has a formal Risk Reduction Program which must be completed by anyone convicted of DUI, BUI, possession of illegal drugs or underage possession of alcohol while operating a motor vehicle. Review of this information will clearly show you why it is important to hire a competent attorney and fight DUI charges in Georgia.

Any DUI arrest will generate a permanent criminal record. Aside from the punishments listed below, you should note the hidden costs of a DUI shown on this page.

DUI Punishments in Georgia

DUI Less Safe Punishment: (first conviction) is usually a misdemeanor, but it still carries serious penalties. Up to 12 months in jail, a fine of $300 to $1,000 plus court costs, at least 20 hours of community service, DUI Risk Reduction Program completion, a clinical substance abuse evaluation, and up to 12 months of probation.

1st DUI Punishment: Up to 12 months in jail, a fine of $300 to $1,000, plus court costs, surcharges, and program fees, at least 40 hours of community service, up to 12 months probation, required completion of a state-certified DUI Risk Reduction Program (DUI school), and a clinical substance abuse evaluation.

2nd DUI Punishment: (within 10 years of last conviction) mandatory 72+ hours in jail, fine of $600 to $1,000, at least 240 hours community service, clinical substance abuse evaluation, and a 3-year suspension of your driver's license.

3rd DUI Punishment: (within 10 years of last conviction): is considered a high and aggravated misdemeanor. Mandatory minimum of 15+ days in jail, fine $1,000 to $5,000, 240 hours community service, a 5-year revocation of your driver's license, and seizure of your license plate.

Felony DUI Punishment: (fourth DUI within 10 years of last conviction) is classed as a felony offense. If the DUI involved injury or death, other felony charges and elevated punishments may be added. Punishments include 90 days to 5 years in prison, fine of $1,000 to $5,000, minimum 5-years supervised probation, 5-years revocation of driver's license, 60 days community service, and clinical substance abuse evaluation.