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Marietta Criminal Defense Lawyer / Norcross DUI Penalties Lawyer

Norcross DUI Penalties Lawyer

Experienced Norcross DUI Defense Lawyer

If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in Georgia, you could be facing serious penalties, even if it’s your first offense. DUI penalties in Georgia can be severe and have long-lasting consequences on your personal and professional life. At Arca Law, our Norcross DUI defense attorney is committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of DUI law and minimize the impact of these charges. Here’s an overview of what you could face if convicted of a DUI in Georgia. For the best chance at avoiding these serious results, contact an experienced Norcross DUI defense lawyer at Arca Law today.

First DUI Conviction

For a first-time DUI offense in Georgia, penalties can be both financial and personal, affecting your driving privileges and more. Typically, a first DUI conviction may result in:

  • Fines: You could be ordered to pay fines ranging from $300 to $1,000, plus additional court fees and surcharges.
  • Jail Time: A first offense can carry a jail sentence ranging from 24 hours to 12 months, depending on the circumstances of your arrest.
  • License Suspension: Your driver’s license could be suspended for one year, although you may be able to apply for reinstatement after 120 days. Limited driving permits may also be available in certain situations, allowing you to drive for work, school, or medical appointments.
  • Probation: You could face up to 12 months of probation, during which time you must comply with specific court-ordered conditions.
  • Community Service: A minimum of 40 hours of community service is usually required for a first-time offender.
  • Alcohol or Drug Risk Reduction Program: You will likely be required to attend and complete a state-approved DUI education program, which lasts about 20 hours.

Second DUI Conviction

A second DUI conviction within a 10-year period will result in harsher penalties. Georgia law mandates the following for a second offense:

  • Fines: Fines can range from $600 to $1,000, not including additional court fees and surcharges.
  • Jail Time: You could face a minimum of 72 hours to a maximum of 12 months in jail. Some counties may allow you to serve part of your sentence in a DUI treatment center.
  • License Suspension: Your driver’s license could be suspended for up to three years. Reinstatement typically requires completion of a DUI program and proof of financial responsibility, such as an SR-22 insurance form.
  • Community Service: A minimum of 240 hours of community service is often required for a second conviction.
  • Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device (IID): You may be required to install an IID on your vehicle as a condition of having your driving privileges restored. This device prevents your car from starting if alcohol is detected on your breath.
  • Probation and DUI School: Probation and completion of an alcohol or drug treatment program will be required.

Third DUI Conviction

A third DUI conviction in Georgia within a 10-year period is classified as a “high and aggravated” misdemeanor, leading to more severe penalties:

  • Fines: You could be fined between $1,000 and $5,000, plus additional court fees and surcharges.
  • Jail Time: You may face a jail sentence ranging from 15 days to 12 months.
  • License Suspension: Your driver’s license will be revoked for a minimum of five years. You may be eligible for a limited driving permit after two years through compliance with court conditions.
  • Community Service: A minimum of 240 hours of community service is mandatory.
  • Ignition Interlock Device (IID): An IID will likely be required as part of your sentence to regain driving privileges.
  • Habitual Violator Status: A third DUI conviction results in being labeled a “habitual violator,” which can lead to additional consequences, including vehicle forfeiture.

Fourth DUI Conviction

In Georgia, a fourth DUI conviction within 10 years is a felony. This escalates the penalties significantly, as you could face the following:

  • Fines: Fines range from $1,000 to $5,000, along with additional court fees.
  • Prison Time: A felony DUI conviction could result in one to five years in prison, with a minimum jail time of 90 days.
  • License Revocation: Your driver’s license will be revoked for life, though you may be eligible for reinstatement after five years.
  • Community Service: You will be required to complete at least 60 days of community service.
  • Probation and Rehabilitation: Extended probation and mandatory alcohol or drug treatment programs will be part of your sentence.

Additional Penalties for DUI in Georgia

Georgia law imposes additional penalties for certain aggravating factors, such as having a high blood alcohol content (BAC) over 0.15%, driving with a child under 14 in the car, or causing an accident that results in injury or death. These aggravating factors can increase the severity of the penalties listed above, whether it is your first offense or a subsequent charge.

At Arca Law, we understand that facing a DUI charge can be overwhelming, and the penalties can feel life-changing. Our Norcross DUI defense lawyer is here to protect your rights and provide the strongest defense possible. We offer personalized attention and a thorough approach to every case.

Contact Arca Law for DUI Defense in Norcross

If you or a loved one is facing DUI charges in Norcross, time is of the essence. Contact Arca Law by calling 770-800-8100 to schedule a consultation. We will review the details of your case and develop a tailored defense strategy aimed at reducing or eliminating the charges and penalties you face.