If Georgia law enforcement pulls you over and charges you with DUI, there are immediate and long-term consequences. A conviction can alter the trajectory of your career and the rest of your life. At Daniels & Rothman, P.C., we often assist clients in reducing or removing drunk driving charges before the case goes to trial.
While the term DUI is common and people typically know what it is, what occurs once officers pull you over are unclear. This is how events unfold:
Although it may seem obvious, after failing a breathalyzer or refusing a field sobriety test, officers place you in handcuffs and put you in a police car that takes you to a police station. USA Today reports that they take your fingerprints, mugshot and you likely spend the night in a jail cell. You now have an arrest record.
Driving is a privilege, not a right. Those convicted of DUI should expect a suspended or revoked driver’s license, depending on the circumstances surrounding the charges. If you wish to regain the right to drive legally, the court has a variety of requirements, which can include alcohol rehabilitation courses or treatment, DUI school and possibly an ignition interlock device.
A fine accompanies a DUI conviction. The amount depends on whether this is your first or subsequent arrest and if you caused damages while driving impaired. Mandatory diving education classes also have associated fees. Your auto insurance rates may skyrocket, and you might need an SR-22 policy, which is especially for DUI offenders.
The consequences of your actions may follow you for the rest of your life, especially if you injured or killed someone as a result. It can take years to get back to normal. An experienced attorney can help you build a solid defense. Visit our webpage for more information on this topic.