Even if it is your first offense, a conviction for DUI, or driving under the influence, can have a long-term impact on your life. Not only does it mean you will spend time behind bars, but you will also have a suspended driver’s license which can impede your ability to get to work, school, or even go to the grocery store. If you have been charged with a DUI, you need an experienced defense attorney to fight for you, protecting your rights and your future.
From getting a DUI charge reduced to having the charges dropped completely, hiring an attorney means you will have someone on your side sharing their experience, knowledge, and support to deliver the best possible outcome. If you want to keep your license and avoid the long-term consequences of a DUI conviction, you need an attorney.
Georgia's DUI laws are some of the toughest in the country. There is no DUI expungement and no first-time offender or diversion programs available. An attorney can fight to preserve your driving privileges, ensuring that your livelihood is not disrupted by one mistake. We understand what is at stake and will explore every option available when it comes to building the best defense for your case.
The penalties for a first time DUI conviction include at least twenty-four hours in jail, license suspension for up to twelve months, a twenty-hour reduction course, and community service. DUI convictions are also expensive, from license reinstatement fees to court costs and heavy fines. Plus, you will have a criminal record. Because the consequences of a DUI conviction can follow you for life, it is important to have a knowledgeable attorney on your side, providing the strongest available defense, and advocating for the best possible outcome.
Once an attorney is hired, gathering evidence for your defense is the next step. Though the prosecution will rely on evidence to convict you, a skilled attorney will rely on evidence to defend you. From video footage of your driving or the arrest to police reports, witness statements, and test results, your attorney will carefully review every piece of evidence to build the best defense and zealously advocate for a fair outcome whether that means reducing the charges, dropping the case, or simply fighting to keep the consequences to a minimum.
In some circumstances, it may be possible to negotiate a plea bargain and avoid trial altogether. Having a strong defense improves your chances of pleading to reduced charges, minimizing the punishment, avoiding a DUI conviction, and keeping costs down. With the right evidence, a reduced charge of reckless driving is possible, especially for first-time offenders. This typically means no jail time, no community service, and no license suspension. There may be a hefty fine, but you will avoid the social stigma and long-term consequences of a DUI conviction.
You can find basic information about DUI charges online, but only a knowledgeable DUI defense attorney can review your case and answer specific questions about what your options are and how a conviction will affect you. Our Athens DUI attorneys offer a free consultation to assist you in deciding whether to hire an attorney, what kind of defense we can provide and possible outcomes you can expect.
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