Columbus DUI Attorney

Georgia DUI Laws

Understanding the laws governing DUI offenses in Georgia is paramount when facing charges. In the state of Georgia, DUI, or driving under the influence, is a serious criminal offense that occurs when a driver operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. It is crucial to note that Georgia has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under the age of 21, meaning any detectable quantity of alcohol in their system can lead to DUI charges.

Additionally, Georgia law extends DUI regulations to include the influence of drugs, whether prescription medications, illegal substances, or even over-the-counter drugs, that impair a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely. The penalties for drug-related DUI offenses are just as severe as those for alcohol-related offenses.

What are the Penalties for a DUI in Georgia?

The penalties for a DUI conviction in Georgia are stringent and can have far-reaching consequences. It's imperative to be aware of the potential repercussions to comprehend the gravity of the situation. The severity of penalties can escalate based on factors such as prior DUI convictions, the driver's BAC level, and whether any accidents or injuries occurred.

Individuals may face fines, license suspension, mandatory DUI education programs, and probation for a first-time DUI offense. Subsequent offenses carry even more severe consequences, including longer license suspensions, increased fines, and potential incarceration.

In cases involving accidents or injuries while driving under the influence, the legal consequences become even more severe. The court may impose additional penalties, such as extended jail sentences, mandatory community service, or restitution to victims.

Defenses Against DUI Charges

Some common defenses against DUI charges may include:

• Improper Stop: If law enforcement did not have reasonable suspicion to pull you over, it could be grounds for dismissing the case.
• Faulty Field Sobriety Tests: Field sobriety tests are often subjective and can be influenced by various factors. Challenging the accuracy and reliability of these tests is a common defense strategy.
• Breathalyzer Inaccuracy: Breathalyzer machines must be properly calibrated and maintained. If there are issues with the machine's accuracy, it can doubt the validity of BAC results.
• Miranda Rights Violation: If law enforcement fails to inform you of your Miranda rights during the arrest, it could impact the admissibility of certain statements in court.

Contact Our DUI Lawyer in Columbus Today

The consequences of a DUI conviction can be severe and long-lasting, impacting various aspects of your life. At Poydasheff & Sowers, LLC, we are committed to providing the legal representation you need during this challenging time. Our Columbus DUI attorneys understand the intricacies of Georgia DUI laws and leverage our expertise to craft a strategic defense tailored to your unique situation. Don't navigate the legal complexities alone—contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward safeguarding your future.

Contact Poydasheff & Sowers, LLC today to get started with our Columbus DUI attorney.