If you have been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in Fulton County, Georgia, you’ll want to understand the DUI Process in Fulton County and what you can do to protect yourself. Your options for getting out of the DUI charge vary from case to case, but the most common way to avoid a conviction is to go to trial.
Penalties for DUI in Fulton County
DUI in Fulton County can be a very serious matter. Depending on the nature of your offense, you could face fines, jail time, and other penalties. Contact an attorney to find out your options.
First-time DUI penalties include community service, alcohol counseling, and a license suspension. If you have prior convictions, your penalties can be even worse.
You may face a license suspension for up to five years if you have two or more previous convictions within ten years. The minimum sentence for a first-time DUI is 10 days in jail, but the maximum is a year. Depending on the severity of your offense, you may also be required to complete an alcohol or drug risk reduction program.
Second-time DUI offenses involve a higher fine and more jail time. At least 30 days of community service is required. During this period, you must be drug screened regularly and pay supervision fees.
Third-time DUI convictions carry a fine of up to $10,000. A third-time DUI also increases the maximum jail time. Your license can also be suspended for a year.
DUI charges in Atlanta Municipal Court
Driving under the influence of alcohol is a criminal offense in the state of Georgia. The penalties for DUI depend on your driving history, criminal history, and the circumstances of the arrest.
Atlanta Municipal Court has a special division dedicated to handling DUI cases. These courts are committed to resolving the case efficiently.
A judge is appointed to handle each DUI case. They may try the case by jury or hold a bench trial.
The first court appearance is known as an arraignment. Usually, it occurs within 48 to 72 hours after the arrest. You will be given a bond and a court date.
If you have been arrested for DUI in Atlanta, it is important that you seek out legal counsel. An experienced attorney can help you protect your rights and your license. This is especially important if you are a repeat offender.
Your Atlanta DUI defense attorney will discuss your case with you and advise you on the options available to you. Some options include pleading no contest, plead guilty, or requesting an extension of your driver’s license.
DUI charges in Fulton County State Court
Alcohol DUI is one of the most commonly charged offenses in the Fulton County Court system. This is the result of strict state laws, which impose harsh penalties on those convicted of this offense.
The legal limit for a driver to be arrested for driving under the influence is a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent. In 2012, 277 driving fatalities were attributed to drinking and driving.
It is possible to avoid a criminal conviction of this nature by contacting a Fulton County DUI attorney immediately. A lawyer will be able to help you navigate the legal process and build a strong defense.
You are legally required to have a valid license if you are driving in Georgia. If your license is suspended or revoked, you will be subject to a criminal charge. An experienced DUI attorney can ensure that your driver’s license is protected.
Your attorney can also help you mitigate the impact of a DUI arrest on your life. A DUI conviction can damage your record and raise your insurance costs. Also, a conviction can affect your ability to obtain other forms of insurance.
Jury trial is best option to avoid a DUI conviction
If you were arrested for a DUI, the best way to avoid a conviction is to hire an experienced DUI attorney. An experienced DUI attorney will investigate your case and determine whether you should take it to trial.
A Fulton County DUI can have devastating consequences. This includes heavy fines, loss of driving privileges, and an irreparable black mark on your record. It is not uncommon for a first-time arrestee to feel that their only options are to plead guilty or to accept a plea deal.
But there are still ways to reduce the consequences of a Fulton County DUI. Hiring a knowledgeable DUI attorney can help you get a reduced charge and help keep your license active.
You should also consider taking part in the Risk Reduction Program. After you’ve been arrested for a DUI, you’ll have to go through a substance abuse evaluation. As soon as you complete this, you can begin working with an attorney.