Arrested for DUI in Georgia? Here’s What to Expect Next
A DUI arrest in Georgia can be a frightening and overwhelming experience, especially if it’s your first time facing criminal charges. The legal process moves quickly, and what you do or don’t do immediately afterward can significantly affect the outcome of your case. At The Spizman Firm in Atlanta, Georgia, we guide individuals through every step of the DUI process, working to protect their rights and minimize the impact on their lives.
The DUI Arrest and Booking Process
Most DUI cases begin with a traffic stop, often based on a suspected traffic violation or erratic driving behavior. If the officer believes you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they may ask you to perform field sobriety tests or submit to a breath test. If the officer has probable cause, you will be arrested and taken to jail for booking, where your personal information is recorded, and you may be held until bond is posted.
The 30-Day ALS Deadline
One of the first and most urgent steps after a DUI arrest is addressing your driver’s license. In Georgia, you only have 30 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Suspension (ALS) hearing or install an ignition interlock device. Failing to act within this window can result in the automatic suspension of your license, even before your criminal case is resolved.
This part of the process is separate from the criminal court proceedings and requires immediate attention. An experienced DUI attorney can help you decide which option is best and file the appropriate paperwork on your behalf.
The Criminal Court Process
The criminal side of a DUI charge typically includes:
- Arraignment: Your first court appearance, where you enter a plea.
- Pre-trial motions and hearings: Your attorney may challenge the legality of the traffic stop, the accuracy of the tests, or other key evidence.
- Negotiations or trial: Many DUI cases are resolved through plea negotiations, but some proceed to trial if there are strong defenses.
Possible penalties for a first-time DUI in Georgia include fines, jail time, probation, community service, DUI school, and license suspension. Penalties increase with prior offenses or if aggravating factors are present, such as a high BAC, an accident, or a child passenger.
Building a Strong DUI Defense
Just because you were arrested does not mean you will be convicted. A skilled DUI defense lawyer will thoroughly examine the details of your case, including:
- Whether the traffic stop was lawful
- The accuracy and reliability of breath or blood tests
- The conduct of the arresting officer
- Any violations of your rights
Our Atlanta DUI Defense Attorneys take a strategic approach to DUI defense and work hard to achieve reduced charges, dismissed cases, or minimized penalties.
Call The Spizman Firm Today
If you’ve been arrested for DUI, don’t wait to get legal help. At The Spizman Firm in Atlanta, Georgia, we understand how to navigate both the administrative and criminal aspects of your case and will fight to protect your record, license, and future.
We proudly serve clients across Georgia, including Atlanta, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Cobb County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Johns Creek, and Sandy Springs. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
Source:
dds.georgia.gov/georgia-licenseid/violations-suspensions-revocations/violations-and-suspensions-faqs/dui-first
