How Long Does a Felony DUI Stay on Your Record in Georgia?

If you are facing a felony DUI charge in Georgia, we understand that this can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. You may be filled with questions about what comes next and how this situation will impact your life. The uncertainty surrounding a felony DUI conviction is understandably worrisome, especially when you consider how it could affect your future. You might be wondering how long a felony DUI will stay on your record, what it means for your employment opportunities, and how it could impact your overall life moving forward. These are all valid concerns, and we are here to provide the clarity and guidance you need.

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At Willis Law Firm, we know how challenging this time can be, and we are committed to helping you through this process. We believe in offering compassionate legal support to those facing felony DUI charges, and we are here to make sure you understand your rights and options throughout every stage of your case.

Understanding Felony DUI in Georgia

A DUI offense in Georgia becomes a felony under specific circumstances. Typically, a DUI charge is considered a misdemeanor, but it can elevate to a felony if certain conditions are met. For example, if you have multiple DUI convictions on your record, if your DUI incident involved an accident causing injury or death, or if you were driving with a suspended license, the charges may be elevated to a felony. A felony DUI conviction is a serious offense that carries severe penalties, including long-term consequences that could affect various aspects of your life.

When facing a felony DUI charge, it’s important to understand the gravity of the situation. Beyond the immediate legal penalties, a felony conviction has long-lasting implications for your criminal record and future opportunities.

How Long Will a Felony DUI Stay on Your Record in Georgia?

In Georgia, a felony DUI conviction will remain on your criminal record for life. Unlike some misdemeanor offenses that may be eligible for expungement or record restriction after a certain period, felony DUI charges do not have this option under Georgia law. Once you are convicted of a felony DUI, it will show up on background checks, and it could affect your ability to secure employment, housing, or even certain licenses. This can be extremely challenging, especially if you are trying to move forward after a conviction.

While the felony DUI conviction remains on your record indefinitely, there are some potential avenues for relief. In some cases, individuals may be able to petition the court for a pardon or expungement under very specific circumstances. However, this process can be complicated, and success is not guaranteed. It is essential to consult with an experienced attorney who understands the nuances of Georgia’s laws and can guide you through this process if you are hoping to seek relief in the future.

Greg Willis has been successful at defending DUI cases (over 93% without a conviction)

He's the only lawyer in the State of Georgia to ever be recognized for all three of these accomplishments.

Received the Samurai Lawyer Award for having gone to jail for a total of 4 days in order to save his own client

Received the BadAss Lawyer Award for the biggest impact of all DUI lawyers in DUI defense in the country

Received the vote of Georgia Lawyers as a Superlawyer in DUI Law for 10 straight consecutive years

 

The Consequences of a Felony DUI Conviction

A felony DUI conviction is far more than just a mark on your record. The consequences of such a conviction extend to various areas of your life. First and foremost, a felony conviction carries severe legal penalties. These can include lengthy prison sentences, large fines, mandatory alcohol education programs, and the loss of your driver’s license. Additionally, the stigma associated with a felony conviction can affect your reputation and hinder your personal and professional relationships.

Greg has truly mastered his craft. His preparation is second to none and his confidence helps reduce the nervousness and anxiety his clients face. He is a real life version of Harvey Specter and I highly recommend him.”

- Travis

Greg and his team are absolutely incredible. Greg explained everything to me in detail, as this is the first ever time I have been arrested. Regular updates throughout the process which allowed me to get on with everyday life. 200% I would recommend Greg and his team to anyone with a DUI case."

- James Hellens

Mr Willis is the best in the business. He knows the law inside and out. I was in a serious jam and Greg got my dui reduced to a reckless driving. This man will fight for you every step of the way."

- Anonymous

Beyond the legal penalties, the long-term consequences of a felony DUI conviction can affect your ability to find and maintain employment. Many employers conduct background checks as part of their hiring process, and a felony conviction may disqualify you from certain jobs, especially those that require driving or a clean criminal record. It could also impact your ability to apply for loans, secure housing, or pursue certain professional licenses.

Additionally, a felony DUI conviction may have an impact on child custody proceedings if you are involved in a family law case. The court may view a felony DUI conviction as a sign of poor judgment or irresponsibility, which could negatively influence any decisions related to child custody or visitation.

What Can You Do to Improve Your Situation?

While the consequences of a felony DUI conviction are serious, it is important to know that not all hope is lost. There are legal strategies that an experienced attorney can employ to help you minimize the damage and potentially reduce the penalties associated with a felony DUI conviction.

One option is to seek a plea bargain, in which the prosecution agrees to reduce the charges in exchange for a guilty plea. In some cases, an attorney may be able to negotiate a lesser charge, such as a misdemeanor, or secure a reduced sentence. The success of this strategy depends on several factors, including the specifics of your case, the evidence available, and the experience of your legal team.

If you have been charged with a felony DUI, it is crucial to consult with a skilled attorney who can help build a strong defense. An experienced lawyer can carefully examine the evidence in your case, challenge the accuracy of breathalyzer tests, or even argue that there was a violation of your rights during the arrest process. Every case is unique, and your lawyer will tailor their approach to your situation to give you the best chance at a favorable outcome.

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How We Can Help You

At our firm, we understand that facing a felony DUI charge can be an incredibly difficult experience. Our goal is to provide you with the legal representation you need to achieve the best possible outcome in your case. We take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and guide you through every step of the legal process.

We are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for the best result possible, whether that means negotiating a plea deal, seeking a reduction in charges, or representing you at trial. We believe in offering personalized and compassionate legal support, so you can focus on rebuilding your life without the constant worry about your future.

If you have been charged with a felony DUI in Georgia, it is crucial to have an experienced attorney by your side. Your future is too important to leave to chance. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can help you navigate this challenging situation.

Willis Law Firm is here to support you in the fight for your future. Let us put our experience to work for you.