Atlanta First DUI Lawyers

Penalties for Refusing a DUI Test in Atlanta, GA

If you are pulled over on suspicion of DUI and you refuse to submit to a chemical test, you can face additional charges and penalties, including:

• License Suspension: Your license will be suspended for one year, regardless of whether you are convicted of a DUI.
• Fines: You may be required to pay a fine of up to $1,000.
• Criminal Charges: You can be charged with a separate crime for refusing a chemical test.

It is important to note that the penalties for a DUI in Atlanta, GA can vary based on the circumstances of your case and the discretion of the court. Our experienced Atlanta first DUI lawyers can help you understand the charges against you and the potential consequences of a conviction.

Your ALS Hearing

Following your DUI arrest, you have only 30 calendar days to request an Administrative License Suspension hearing, or an ALS hearing. If you do not request and attend this hearing, your license is automatically suspended for 120 days. You will also be subject of a $210 fine and be compelled to attend a drug and alcohol abuse class. If you are under 21, your administrative license suspension may last six months or—in cases where there was a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of over .08—a full year.

However, it may be possible to not only avoid these penalties, but to also reinstate your license. With representation from a Atlanta first DUI lawyer who can emphatically put forth any relevant information that proves you should continue to be able to drive, you may retain some driving privileges. Your prior driving record, transportation needs, and the circumstances of your DUI arrest may all be part of a convincing argument to avoid a suspension.

You may already know about the possible jail sentence and heavy fines you could face if you have been arrested for DUI in Atlanta. These penalties in and of themselves may cost you years of your life and deal you a huge financial blow. If you are convicted of these charges, you could further be faced with job loss, driver’s license suspension or revocation, probation, mandatory DUI school, and even problems with immigration.

Georgia DUI Point System

Having a license suspended indicates to employers, insurance companies, and others that a driver may be a liability behind the wheel. Georgia looks at the past 24 months of a driver’s record and the points they have accumulated in that time. If there have been 15 or more accumulated points (if the driver is under the age of 21 it is just 4 points) can lead to a suspension. Those that have a license suspension due to a points violation will have their driving privileges revoked and be ordered to pay an appointed fine.

The more points a traffic violation incurs, the more severe the traffic incident. Unlawfully passing a school bus, speeding more than 34 mph over the posted speed limit, and reckless driving all carry the highest amount of points. If the driver has engaged in a serious violation, their license will be automatically suspended. These violations include driving under the influence, hit and runs, and attempting to evade a police officer.

What to Do if You Have Been Charged with a First-Time DUI in Atlanta, GA

If you have been charged with a first-time DUI in Atlanta, GA, it is important to take the charges seriously and seek the advice of an experienced DUI attorney. A DUI conviction can result in serious penalties and have a lasting impact on your life, so it is important to have a strong legal defense.

Our Atlanta first DUI lawyers can help you understand the charges against you, evaluate the evidence against you, and build a strong defense. They can also negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf and work to have the charges reduced or dismissed.

A first-time DUI charge in Atlanta, GA is a serious matter that can result in serious consequences. If you have been charged with a DUI, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible.

It is also important to keep in mind that a DUI conviction can have long-term consequences, such as increased insurance rates, difficulty finding employment, and a criminal record. To minimize the impact of a DUI charge, it is important to take proactive steps to protect your rights and your future.

Some steps you can take include:

• Refrain from discussing the details of your case with anyone other than your attorney.
• Gather all relevant information, including the details of your arrest and any witness statements.
• Document any physical injuries or property damage from the incident.
• Keep a log of any expenses related to the DUI, such as court fees, fines, and legal expenses.
• Attend all court appearances and follow any conditions of your release, such as abstaining from alcohol or drugs.

With the right legal representation and a strong defense, it may be possible to reduce or dismiss the charges against you and protect your future.

Mistakes to Avoid After a DUI

If you are facing a first DUI charge in Atlanta, Georgia, it’s important to understand the consequences and take steps to mitigate them. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Failing to hire an experienced DUI attorney: A DUI attorney with experience in the Atlanta area can help you navigate the complex legal system and minimize the consequences of your charges.
2. Ignoring the charges: Ignoring your DUI charges or failing to show up in court can result in additional penalties, including fines and a warrant for your arrest.
3. Talking too much to the police: It’s important to be polite and cooperative with the police, but you should also exercise your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself.
4. Refusing a chemical test: In Georgia, you have the right to refuse a chemical test, but doing so will result in an automatic license suspension and can be used as evidence against you in court.
5. Plead guilty without considering all options: Pleading guilty to a DUI charge may seem like the easiest option, but it can result in serious consequences, including a criminal record, fines, and even jail time. An experienced DUI attorney can help you understand your options and make the best decision for your case.

Remember, if you are facing a DUI charge, it’s important to seek the help of an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and minimize the consequences.

DUI Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about first-time DUI charges in Atlanta, Georgia:

It’s important to remember that every DUI case is unique – and the consequences can vary depending on the circumstances. If you have been charged with a DUI in Atlanta, it’s important to seek the help of an experienced DUI attorney.

First-Time DUI Client Story

The client’s name and fact were changed to protect her identity.

Meet Jane, a young professional in her mid-twenties who lived in Atlanta, Georgia. Jane was an ambitious and hardworking person, who had recently landed her dream job at a top marketing firm in the city. However, one night, after a night out with friends, Jane made the mistake of driving home after having a few drinks.

The next thing she knew, she was pulled over by the police and was charged with a first-time DUI. She was in shock and didn’t know what to do next. That’s when she remembered a friend who had recommended an experienced DUI attorney in Atlanta.  The DUI attorney was Attorney Greg Willis

Jane quickly got in touch with Attorney Willis, who listened to her story and assured her that he would do everything in his power to help her. Attorney Willis went over the facts of the case and explained the consequences of a DUI conviction, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time.

Despite the daunting odds, Attorney Willis was confident that he could help Jane. He had a track record of successfully defending clients against DUI charges in Georgia. Attorney Willis and Jane worked together to build a strong defense and prepare for trial.

The day of the trial arrived, and Jane was nervous but determined to fight for her rights. Attorney Willis presented a compelling argument that challenged the evidence against Jane and cast doubt on the accuracy of the breathalyzer test. After a long and intense trial, the judge declared that there was not enough evidence to support a DUI conviction.

Jane was overjoyed and grateful for the help of Attorney Willis. She learned a valuable lesson that night and was grateful for the second chance. She got her life back on track and put the incident behind her.

This story highlights the importance of seeking the help of an experienced DUI trial attorney if you are facing a first-time DUI charge in Atlanta, Georgia. With the right legal representation, you can protect your rights, minimize the consequences, and move forward with your life.

Call Our Atlanta First DUI Lawyers

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a criminal offense in Atlanta, GA, and a conviction can result in serious penalties. If you have been charged with a first-time DUI, it is important to understand the charges against you and the potential consequences of a conviction.

Call Willis Law Firm to schedule your free legal consultation.