DUI Alcohol

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Georgia, and is strictly enforced throughout the state. If you've been charged with DUI, it's important to understand the legal process and your rights. In Georgia, the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%. If you're found to have a BAC at or above this level, you may be charged with DUI, even if your driving was not affected. You can also be charged with a DUI even if your BAC is below this level, if the police can show that you were "less safe" to drive. An arrest for either type of DUI alcohol can result in a number of consequences, including hefty fines, possible jail time, and the suspension of your driver's license. It's crucial to seek legal help immediately to understand your options and get the best possible outcome. Being aware of the laws and penalties ahead of time can help you make informed decisions and avoid any unnecessary consequences.

Overview of Georgia DUI Alcohol

If you're facing a DUI alcohol charge in Georgia, it's important to understand the difference between a per se DUI and a less safe DUI. A per se DUI means that your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was above the legal limit of 0.08%. On the other hand, a less safe DUI means that your driving was impaired due to alcohol consumption, even if your BAC was below the legal limit. It's also crucial to know that you only have 30 days from the date of your arrest to file for an ALS (administrative license suspension) hearing if you refused the implied consent state test requested by law enforcement. This hearing determines if you'll be able to keep your license while your case is pending. If you miss the 30-day deadline, your license will automatically be suspended. It's always recommended to enlist the help of a qualified DUI attorney to navigate the legal system and potentially reduce the charges against you.

Per Se vs. Less Safe

As Georgia drivers, it's important to understand the difference between a DUI per se and a DUI less safe for alcohol in our state. A DUI per se occurs when a driver's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08 or higher, regardless of their level of impairment. On the other hand, a DUI less safe occurs when a driver's ability to operate a vehicle is impaired to the extent that it is less safe to drive. Police use a variety of tests to determine impairment, including field sobriety tests and breathalyzer tests. If you are pulled over, it's important to be cooperative with the officer and understand your rights. Refusing a breathalyzer test can result in a suspended license, but you have the right to remain silent and consult with an attorney before answering any questions. Stay safe on the roads and always designate a sober driver.

ALS (Administrative License Suspension) Hearing - Test Refusal

If you have been arrested for a DUI in Georgia, and you refused the police officer's request for a state-administered test of your blood, breath, urine, or other bodily substances, it's crucial to understand the administrative license suspension (ALS) notice and request for hearing. The ALS notice informs you that your driver's license will be suspended, and you have only 30 days from your arrest to decide how to handle the situation - whether by sending in $150 hearing fee and a request to be heard, by not doing anything, or by opting for a 1 year ignition interlock permit in lieu of the suspension. It's highly recommended that you contact an attorney immediately after being released from jail to ensure that you don't lose any valuable time. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the legal process and provide you with the best possible outcome. Don't hesitate to protect your rights and reach out for help.

ALS Limited Permit - Test Consent

If you've been charged with DUI in Georgia and have consented to take the state implied consent test, you may be eligible for an ALS limited driving permit. The cost is $25, and this permit will allow you to drive to work, court obligations, and school, while your license is under suspension pending the finalization of your underlying DUI case. Another good thing to know is that any suspension time served under the ALS limited permit counts towards any suspension time you may receive following a DUI conviction, meaning that you won't have to endure prolonged periods of having your license suspended. It is important to note this is only available to those with 1st time DUI charges in 5 years, who took the state-administered implied consent test.

Consequences for DUI Alcohol Conviction

A first-time DUI alcohol conviction in Georgia can have serious consequences, both legally and personally. Legally, a conviction can result in fines of up to $1,000, mandatory community service, and even jail time. Additionally, those convicted of DUI in Georgia can face license suspension, making it difficult to get to work or attend school. Personally, a DUI conviction can have significant impacts on relationships, employment, and one's reputation. If you get multiple DUIs in a five or ten year period, the consequences only get more severe, with a fourth DUI in 10 years resulting in a felony on your record and potentially prison time. Seeking legal representation and resources for alcohol abuse can help individuals facing a DUI conviction navigate this challenging time and work towards a positive outcome.

Defenses against DUI Alcohol

Facing charges of driving under the influence of alcohol can be a daunting experience filled with uncertainty and anxiety. However, with the right legal team advocating for your rights and crafting the best defense strategy, you can achieve the best possible outcome. In Georgia, there are several common legal defenses against DUI alcohol charges, including challenging the validity of the sobriety test results, examining the conduct of the police officers who conducted the arrest, and questioning the accuracy of any witness statements. To prepare for your defense, it is essential to work closely with your legal team, sharing your concerns and details of the incident, and providing any information that could help challenge the charges. With careful preparation and a strong legal defense, you can minimize the impact of a DUI alcohol charge and move forward with your life.

How We Can Help

Dealing with a DUI alcohol charge in Georgia can be an overwhelming experience. At Your Law Firm, we understand the gravity of the situation and are here to help. Our legal team is dedicated to defending and advocating for you. We will work tirelessly to build a strong defense strategy with the goal of helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. If you decide to plead guilty, our aim is to ensure that you do so with confidence and that you start with your best foot forward. If you want to fight the charges, we will zealously represent you in trial. We take pride in guiding our clients through every step of the legal process, providing them with the support they need during this challenging time. So if you are facing a DUI charge, please don't hesitate to contact us; we're here to help.