Penalties Associated With a Georgia DUI
Georgia DUI laws might be some of the most strict in the country. Therefore, it’s essential to understand what you may be facing if you are charged with driving under the influence. It can help you make informed decisions about your case and avoid harsher consequences.
By understanding the various types of DUI penalties, those charged with a DUI can better prepare themselves for what lies ahead.
When you are ready to discuss your case with a skilled DUI lawyer who thoroughly understands Georgia DUI laws, the legal team of Chehimi Law will be there for you. With years of experience in the Georgia court system, they offer resources and support you can rely on.
Common Georgia DUI Penalties
Most states consider driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) over 0.08% to be illegal. Georgia law enforcement officers may still pursue DUI charges for lower levels under the DUI less safe statute.
The penalties for Georgia DUI convictions may include any or a combination of the following:
- Jail or prison time
- Fines and court fees
- Criminal record
- Vehicle impoundment
- License suspension or revocation
- Insurance repercussions
- Treatment for substance abuse
- Participation in DUI Risk Reduction School (also known as DUI School)
Depending on the circumstances, you may also face enhanced penalties. If you have been charged with a DUI alcohol or drug charge, hiring a Georgia DUI lawyer can help ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
What Are Enhanced Penalties for a Georgia DUI?
If a driver driving under the influence has a minor in the vehicle, they can be charged with an additional crime of child endangerment. A conviction for this brings along more severe mandatory Georgia DUI penalties, including up to 12 months in prison and $1,000 in financial fines on top of standard DUI charges.
Having the support of a DUI defense attorney familiar with Georgia DUI law can be instrumental in fighting your DUI case when you face Enhanced Penalties.
License Suspension for Georgia DUI
In Georgia, license suspension is the most common penalty for a DUI. Georgia DUI arrests come with an automatic one-year license suspension unless you file an appeal within 30 days. Such a loss of license for that period can be challenging for you and your family, so taking action immediately is essential to retain your driving privileges.
If you have been convicted of Georgia DUI, you may wonder how to get your license back. The process can be complicated and time-consuming, but with the proper guidance and resources, it is possible to restore your driving privileges. A qualified attorney can help you get back your Georgia driver’s license.
Getting a Hardship License Following a Georgia DUI Conviction
A hardship license or limited permit may be possible if you meet specific criteria. If a driver has not been in any DUI-related collision in the last five years and does not have a previous DUI, they may be eligible for a hardship license. Furthermore, drivers who have incurred one DUI within the past five years can apply for this license after completing 120 days of suspension.
If you need a hardship license, you may need to be enrolled in a treatment program. This license will remain valid during suspension and may require an ignition interlock device (IID). Please note that these licenses may come with specific stipulations and restrictions.
First Offense DUI Conviction
For a first DUI conviction in Georgia, the maximum penalties can range from up to a $1000 fine and/or one year of jail time, license suspension, and other penalties.
You may be able to get your driver’s license reinstated after a 12-month suspension, provided you attend and complete a DUI education program and pay a $200 reinstatement fee within 120 days.
Second Offense DUI Conviction
In Georgia, a second DUI conviction carries with it more stringent punishments. If this is your second DUI within ten years, you face the following penalties:
- Jail time of 72 hours to one year
- A fine of $600 to $1000
- 240 hours of community service
- Probation for 12 months
- DUI School
- Evaluation by a substance abuse treatment program
- License suspension
The three-year suspension accompanying a second DUI may be lifted after 18 months if the individual takes a DUI education program and pays a $200 reinstatement fee.
Third Offense DUI Conviction
After getting three or more DUIs in 10 years, the penalties significantly increase, as follows:
- Jail time of 15 days to 10 years
- A fine of $1,000 to $5000
- Community service of 240 hours
- Probation for 12 months
- DUI School
- Substance abuse evaluation
- License suspension
After a third DUI, your driver’s license is permanently revoked. However, you can apply for a probationary license after three years have passed.
Felony DUI Penalties in Georgia
If you have prior DUI convictions or meet other criteria in Georgia, you may be charged with a felony DUI. For example, if you are charged with your fourth DUI in 10 years, you will likely be charged with a felony. An incident that results in severe injury or death may result in a felony conviction and an additional 15 years’ imprisonment per victim in addition to the usual five-year sentence for felony DUI.
Discussing your case with a reputable attorney can be helpful when you face charges of felony DUI or DUI probation violations.
Vehicle Forfeiture for Repeat DUI Offenses
In Georgia, DUI offenders can face vehicle forfeiture if convicted of multiple DUI offenses. That means that the court can take away their vehicles as a punishment for their actions.
Vehicle forfeiture is a powerful deterrent to repeat offenses, making it more difficult for those convicted of multiple DUIs to get behind the wheel again. It is also an effective way to prevent further road harm and protect innocent people from drunk drivers. Georgia clearly states that drinking and driving will not be tolerated by taking away a person’s vehicle.
How Can a Georgia Attorney Help With DUI?
When dealing with a criminal DUI charge, consulting with an attorney to help you through the DUI case process may benefit you. A knowledgeable and experienced DUI lawyer can help you understand the charges against you, develop a strong defense strategy, negotiate with prosecutors for reduced or dismissed charges, and provide detailed advice.
Hiring an experienced Georgia DUI lawyer is an important decision that could influence the outcome of your case. For questions about a Georgia DUI matter, talk to an attorney at Chehimi Law.
