If you found your way to this page, you may be feeling scared, unsure, and overwhelmed. You are likely here because you or someone you care about has been charged with a DUI while holding a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Georgia. This is a very serious situation. You are right to be concerned, but you are not alone. Our law firm understands how heavy this moment feels. You may be wondering how this will affect your job, your money, and your future. The truth is, a CDL DUI comes with more than just a court date. It brings big financial consequences, and we’re here to help you understand them and guide you forward.
BadAss Attorney
Best DUI Lawyers
DUI Defense Lawyers - Board of Directors
10 Consecutive Years Selected to Super Lawyers
Best Lawyers In America
AV Prememinent
AVVO 10
AVVO Client's Choice
AVVO
Best Lawyers Best Law Firms
What Happens Financially After a Georgia CDL DUI
A CDL DUI in Georgia can change a person’s life in many ways, especially when it comes to money. Right after the arrest, there are fees that start piling up. One of the first things you will need to pay is bond money to get out of jail. That can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. After that, you will likely need to pay for towing and storage if your commercial vehicle was taken. These are costs that happen quickly, often before you even have time to think clearly.
But the costs don’t stop there. Georgia law has a system of fines and fees that come with a DUI conviction. For a CDL holder, those fines are not just about punishment. They also reflect the fact that you have a higher standard to meet. That means your financial burden is likely higher than someone with a regular driver’s license. The court may issue a fine that ranges from $300 to over $1,000. This doesn’t include court fees, which can easily add hundreds more.
License Suspension Means Lost Income
One of the hardest parts of a CDL DUI is the loss of your license. If your CDL is suspended, even for just a short time, you may not be able to work. Most commercial driving jobs require a clean record, and even one DUI can make it very hard to get hired. This is not just a setback; it could mean the end of your driving career, even if this is your first offense.
While you are not working, you are not making money. That loss of income can be huge, especially if you are supporting a family. Many people in this situation fall behind on rent, car payments, or other bills. That stress can add up quickly. It’s not just about the fine from the court — it’s the ripple effect that touches every part of your life.
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
Insurance Costs Can Go Up for Years
After a DUI, your insurance company will see you as a risky driver. For someone with a CDL, that means your premiums can go way up. Some drivers find that their insurance rates double or even triple after a DUI. Others may have their policies canceled completely. Getting new coverage can be hard and expensive. Some companies may not even offer insurance to commercial drivers with a DUI on their record.
This added cost sticks around for a long time. Even if you are able to keep your license and continue working, you may end up paying much more each year for insurance. Over time, those extra payments can add up to thousands of dollars. This is just one more way a DUI can make things harder for you and your family.
Court-Ordered Programs and Other Hidden Costs
Many people don’t know that after a DUI, the court often requires you to attend classes or counseling. These programs are not free. You may have to pay for alcohol or drug education courses. In some cases, the court may require you to go through treatment or regular testing. Each one of these comes with its own cost.
There are also costs for probation supervision, electronic monitoring if required, and possibly reinstating your license later. Some drivers must install an ignition interlock device, even if they only drive for work. That device also comes with a monthly fee and installation cost. It is important to know that these are not optional. If you don’t follow the rules, the court can add more penalties.
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
The Long-Term Career Impact
Beyond the money, one of the most damaging parts of a CDL DUI is the impact on your job. Employers who hire commercial drivers take DUI charges seriously. Even if the court does not send you to jail, you may still lose your job. Some trucking companies have policies that do not allow them to employ drivers with a DUI on their record, no matter the details of the case.
Even if you try to get a new job, your record may hold you back. Many companies will not give someone a chance once they see the DUI in your driving history. It can take years to rebuild your reputation and prove that you are a safe driver. For many, that means changing careers entirely. That’s a big life shift, and it can be expensive and stressful.
How a Strong Legal Defense Can Protect Your Finances
The good news is that not every CDL DUI ends in a conviction. With strong legal help, there are ways to challenge the charges. Sometimes, the officer made a mistake during the stop. Sometimes, the breath test or blood test was not done properly. A good lawyer can look at the details of your case and fight for a better result.
If your charges are reduced or dropped, that can save you a lot of money. It might mean you keep your license. It might help you avoid losing your job. Even if a conviction cannot be avoided, a lawyer can help reduce the fines and fight for a lighter sentence. That can make a big difference when it comes to getting your life back on track.
Related Videos
Choosing a Georgia DUI Attorney
Defenses and Strategies to Defend a DUI Charge
What You Should Do Now
If you are facing a CDL DUI in Georgia, do not wait to take action. The financial consequences are real and serious. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to protect yourself. You need someone who can stand by your side, answer your questions, and defend your future.
At Willis Law Firm, we understand what you are going through. We know how high the stakes are when your career and your income are on the line. We have helped many commercial drivers just like you face this challenge and come out stronger on the other side. You do not have to go through this alone. Call us today so we can talk about your case and find the best way forward together.
