Being arrested for driving under the influence in Georgia can be a distressing and overwhelming experience. The uncertainty of what happens next, the fear of facing legal consequences, and the confusion about what steps to take are all natural reactions. If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve recently found yourself in this situation or know someone who has. Rest assured that you’re not alone, and we understand the stress and worry you’re facing. Our team at Willis Law Firm is here to guide you through every step of the legal process, providing the support and legal assistance you need to navigate the complexities of DUI law.
Understanding DUI Arrests in Georgia
When you’re arrested for DUI in Georgia, it’s important to understand that you are facing serious legal consequences. DUI laws in Georgia are strict, and the penalties can vary depending on several factors, including whether it’s your first offense or if you have prior DUI convictions. The law in Georgia defines DUI as operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any other substances that impair your ability to drive safely. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Georgia is 0.08%. However, you can be arrested even if your BAC is lower than this, depending on how alcohol or drugs have impaired your ability to operate the vehicle.
Once you’ve been arrested, you may feel overwhelmed with the uncertainty of what happens next. It’s understandable to have concerns about the process and how it will affect your future. What you need to know is that you have options. There are specific steps you should take immediately after an arrest to protect your rights and build a defense for your case.
Remain Calm and Cooperate With Law Enforcement
The moment you’re pulled over and arrested for DUI, it’s essential to stay calm. While it may be difficult to remain composed under the circumstances, being respectful and cooperative with law enforcement officers is crucial. Your behavior during the arrest can impact your case in ways you may not expect. In Georgia, refusal to take a breathalyzer test or chemical test can result in automatic license suspension, and that refusal can be used against you in court.
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 yearsGreg Willis has been successful at defending DUI cases (over 93% without a conviction)
During the arrest, you’ll likely be asked to submit to a chemical test, such as a breathalyzer test, blood test, or urine test. It’s important to understand that refusing this test comes with immediate consequences, such as a 12-month driver’s license suspension, and the law enforcement officer may present this information to the court.
While you have the right to refuse the chemical test, it’s important to understand the long-term implications. If you’re unsure of what to do at the time of your arrest, it’s best to ask for legal advice. An attorney can help guide you through the legal consequences, and it’s crucial that you understand your options fully before making any decisions.
Do Not Make Statements Without a Lawyer
After the arrest, law enforcement officers will likely ask you a series of questions. While it’s important to cooperate with the police, it’s also important to remember that anything you say can be used against you in court. Under your constitutional rights, you have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions without a lawyer present, and it’s usually in your best interest not to speak further until you’ve had the chance to consult with a DUI attorney.
The best thing you can do is politely inform the officers that you would like to speak with a lawyer before answering any additional questions. It’s not an indication of guilt—it’s simply a smart legal move. Anything you say could be used as evidence against you, so it’s important to avoid making statements that could negatively impact your case.
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
Schedule an Immediate Hearing for Your License
In Georgia, one of the first things you will need to do after being arrested for DUI is take action to prevent the automatic suspension of your driver’s license. After an arrest, you have just 10 business days to request a hearing with the Department of Driver Services (DDS) to challenge the suspension. If you don’t take action within this timeframe, your driver’s license will automatically be suspended for up to a year.
At this hearing, you will have the opportunity to challenge the suspension of your license. It’s crucial to have legal representation during this hearing to ensure that you have the best chance of retaining your driving privileges. A skilled DUI lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of Georgia’s administrative laws and provide a defense to protect your license.
Explore Your Options for Defense
After the arrest, you may be wondering what defenses are available to you. DUI cases can be complex, and there are several ways to challenge the evidence against you. For example, if the breathalyzer test was not administered properly, or if the officer did not have probable cause to stop your vehicle, these could serve as valid defenses. Additionally, there may be issues with the accuracy of the chemical tests or the condition of the equipment used.
A thorough review of the arrest, the officer’s behavior, and the test results can provide critical information to help develop a defense strategy. It’s essential to have an experienced DUI attorney who can assess the facts of your case and determine the best course of action.
Attend Court Hearings and Understand Possible Consequences
Your DUI case will ultimately be heard in court, and this is where the stakes are high. In Georgia, DUI penalties can include fines, mandatory alcohol education programs, community service, probation, and even jail time. The severity of the penalties depends on factors such as whether it’s your first DUI offense, your BAC level, whether there were any aggravating factors, and whether you have prior convictions.
Related Videos
Choosing a Georgia DUI Attorney
Defenses and Strategies to Defend a DUI Charge
An experienced DUI attorney can help you understand the possible consequences and work to minimize the penalties. They may be able to negotiate a plea deal or work toward a reduction in charges. In some cases, they may even be able to get the case dismissed based on a legal technicality or lack of evidence.
Work with an Attorney Who Understands DUI Cases
Throughout the entire DUI process, working with a knowledgeable and compassionate attorney is crucial. At Willis Law Firm, we understand the stress and anxiety that come with a DUI arrest. Our team is committed to providing the guidance and legal support you need during this difficult time. We believe in building strong, personalized defenses based on the facts of your case, and we work tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome for our clients.
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Georgia, you need an attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and fight for your rights. We understand that no two cases are alike, and we take the time to evaluate every aspect of your case to develop a tailored strategy that works for you.
Protecting a Professional License After a DUI and Refusal of a Blood Test Result: DUI Dismissed with No Jail Time and No Loss of License Challenging Admissibility of a .19 BAC Blood Test and Field Sobriety Evaluation Result: No Jail Time, No DUI on Record, No License SuspensionFeatured Case Results
Call Willis Law Firm for Help with Your DUI Case
Facing a DUI charge in Georgia is undoubtedly a challenging experience. However, with the right legal representation, you can achieve the best possible result for your case. At Willis Law Firm, we offer a compassionate approach to every case, ensuring that you are fully informed about your options at every stage. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Georgia, don’t navigate the process alone. Call us today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you take the next steps toward resolving your case. Our team is here to support you and work hard for the best possible result in your DUI case.