What To Expect When Arrested for a DUI in Georgia

Driving Under The Influence In Georgia

It is easy for a routine stop to escalate where a DUI is concerned. Being pulled over by law enforcement can cause extreme fear and anxiety in the moments that follow. It is important to try to remain as calm as possible when you have been pulled over under the suspicion of driving under the influence in Georgia. In all likelihood, if the officer in question feels that there is a reasonable suspicion that you have been operating your motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you will be asked to take part in a field sobriety test.

Considerations For DUI

• Driving “under the influence” of alcohol, drugs (legal/illegal)
• Having marijuana or other illegal drugs in your blood

There is no distinction when it comes to impairment. If you are found to have marijuana or drugs in your blood but do not appear to be impaired, you will still be charged with a DUI in the state of Georgia. Likewise, if you are over the legal limit on your BAC test, yet you do not appear to be impaired, you will still be charged with a DUI in the state of Georgia. This is not up to the discretion of the officer.

REFUSING A BREATHALYZER TEST IN GEORGIA

You have the right to refuse a breathalyzer test in Georgia, however, this is not without its penalties. In refusing to cooperate with a breathalyzer test, you may run the risk of losing your license and having it automatically suspended for a period of time determined by the court.

DUI Arrest & Charges For A First Offense

A first offense DUI Charge is very serious in the state of Georgia. If you are found guilty, you can face up to 1 year in jail, but no less than 24 hours at the time of your arrest. Not only will you face a possible jail sentence, you will also face probation thereafter. In addition, you will be faced with up to one thousand dollars in fines and the possibility of taking part in community service for at least 20 hours. Outside of the latter, you may also be required to submit to clinical evaluation and take part in other programs. 

Get Help Today

Aside from the fact that you may have to face some hefty fines and penalties, you also have to consider other elements in your life that can be affected by a DUI conviction like a criminal record, your car insurance, future employment and so on and so forth. For these reasons, it is vital that you get an experienced criminal defense attorney to fight your DUI charges.

If you are arrested for driving under the influence in Cobb County, GA then you will want a criminal defense attorney who is familiar with Cobb County DUI laws and procedures. A Marietta criminal defense attorney who is familiar with the local Magistrate Court system, the prosecutors office, and most importantly the judges will be your best defense to protect your freedoms. If you are arrested for a DUI in Cobb County GA then you need to Contact Cobb Criminal Defense today for assistance.