Do I Need a Lawyer for DUI in Georgia?
You are coming home from a party where you had a few drinks. Since you live near and feel fine, so sat in your car and headed home. But, the next thing you know, there are flashing blue lights coming from a car behind you. The police officer pulls you over and requests your Georgia driver’s license and registration.
This is a common scenario. Under Georgia DUI law (§40-6-391), an individual must not be in physical control of a vehicle or drive if they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, nor if they were under the influence within three hours before the drive.
Speaking with an experienced Atlanta DUI defense lawyer is always a good idea. A skilled lawyer can offer knowledge and advice you may not have and, more importantly, can help you navigate the process early on to save your license.
If you are concerned with losing a license, jail time, or especially if you are a repeat offender (have had a prior DUI), you need to speak with a qualified DUI defense attorney. The consequences of driving under the influence vary, but a lawyer can help reduce penalties or even prove your innocence.
Law offices like The Chehimi Law Firm can provide personalized DUI defense and more tailored strategies to get you the best outcome. Unlike other DUI lawyers, the Chehimi Law Firm has experienced attorneys committed to getting you the best possible result.
What Happens After DUI Arrests?
Individuals who the police officers pulled over will also have to take field sobriety tests.
If a DUI arrest occurs, the arresting officer has to read the Georgia Implied Consent Notice and asks to submit to a chemical test of your breath, urine, blood, or other bodily substances to determine whether the individual is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Those who refuse will face a license suspension for at least one year.
A common misconception is that an individual won’t face Atlanta DUI charges if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is less than .08 grams. Georgia’s DUI less safe law allows individuals to face a DUI arrest even if their BAC is lower than .08 grams.
A DUI conviction carries significant fines, driver’s license suspension, and possible jail time, even for a first DUI offense. Additional consequences include increased insurance costs, difficulty going to work, and doing your everyday chores without driving privileges.
A skilled Atlanta DUI Lawyer is essential to fight the charges against you. The Chehimi Law Firm provides some of the best DUI lawyers in Atlanta. The lawyers at the firm have handled thousands of DUI cases and can provide insight into your situation and help you navigate the legal process.
The attorneys at the Chehimi Law Firm also have experience navigating Georgia’s highest court, the Georgi Supreme Court. The lawyers at the firm are committed to exploring all possible options for fighting your charges and getting you the best outcome.
If you have been charged with a DUI offense, immediately contact The Chehimi Law Firm and speak with an experienced Atlanta DUI attorney. A lawyer can help you through the process and protect your rights.
Some Common DUI Defense Strategies
Defending DUI cases in Atlanta, GA, is not an easy task. You need a premier criminal defense law firm with enough experience to handle these cases successfully. In addition, you need criminal defense attorneys who are experienced and willing to fight your drunk driving charges.
Improper Stop
One of the most common defense strategies made by a DUI attorney is that the law enforcement officers lacked probable cause to make the initial traffic stop.
Accuracy of State Administered Test
The attorney may challenge the administration of the breathalyzer test by challenging the reading of the implied consent notice, the officer’s training and administration (i.e., was the officer properly trained?), and the test results on the printout. Also, the defense may question whether the breath test device was properly calibrated and maintained.
Improper Detention or Miranda Violations
If Miranda warnings are required and are not issued, any evidence gathered after that (such as incriminating statements, biological evidence, field sobriety test observations, etc.) will likely be excluded.
Improper Testing and Storage of Blood Alcohol Samples
Unreasonable wait times or testing by an untrained laboratory technician could be possible defenses against the results.
Medical Conditions
If you have a medical condition, this can sometimes not only create the appearance of intoxication but can even skew the results of the State-administered Test.
How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost in Georgia?
The cost of a DUI lawyer in Georgia depends on the complexity of the case, the attorney’s experience level, and other factors. The average fee for a DUI case is around $2,500 and can range anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000. The fee could be higher if the case goes to trial or is more complex.
In general, you will want to hire an attorney with a demonstrated track record of success and expertise in DUI cases. Look for an attorney who is familiar with the local laws, as well as Georgia’s implied consent law.