Skip to main content

Exit WCAG Theme

Switch to Non-ADA Website

Accessibility Options

Select Text Sizes

Select Text Color

Website Accessibility Information Close Options
Close Menu
Hawkins Spizman Hawkins Spizman
  • Hablamos Español
  • ~
  • Call for a Free Consultation

Does A Police Officer’s Testimony Mean You Will Be Convicted Of A DUI In Georgia?

Gavel_Cuffs

Not only do the police play a part in pulling you over if they suspect you may be driving drunk, but they can also play a critical role in your DUI case too. The officer who arrested you has a role that can impact you significantly and it’s not only regarding just pulling you over and arresting you. In the state of Georgia, it is unlawful to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. Commercial truck drivers can only have a .04 BAC and be considered drunk while driving. If an arrest results in a conviction, serious penalties can follow.

It is best to connect with an experienced and licensed attorney in your area that understands the laws when you are arrested for a DUI in Georgia. At Hawkins Spizman Trial Attorneys you can feel assured that you will have the most resourceful and seasoned DeKalb County DUI attorneys by your side defending your rights. As trial lawyers, the legal team at Hawkins Spizman know how to resolve cases with the best possible outcomes for those that are accused of crimes throughout the state of Georgia.  Mike Hawkins has taught DUI defense to lawyers and judges across the country and is Board Certified in DUI Defense as recognized by the American Bar Association.

A Police Officer’s Role in a DUI Case

In addition to the police report and its findings, the arresting officer will show up at your court hearing to provide in-person testimony of their account of what happened when you were arrested. The testimony of the law enforcement officer in your case is not to be taken lightly. The judge and jury respect law enforcement and what they have to say. And, if there were no other witnesses to dispute the allegations of the officer, then it is what the officer says to put up against what you are saying. There is a tendency to believe the police officer over the accused.

However, even though the police officer’s opinion and explanation of how your arrest happened is important and thought of quite highly, what they say is not set in stone and taken alone as concrete proof that you are guilty. Jurors have to look at all aspects of a case, including police testimony. They must consider evidence presented to them from your legal team and from the state. If there were other witnesses that saw what happened or were present, then paying attention to these accounts must also take place.

With a strategic and experienced legal defense lawyer on your side, your case will be thoroughly investigated. And, where there could be questions regarding the legitimacy and validity of the police officer’s account, where it could be shown that your actions were not the result of alcohol but perhaps because of something completely unrelated to alcohol it is possible to put doubt in the jury.

In criminal cases, the jury must believe that you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. So, if they question your guilt and think you could be innocent, you may be able to avoid a conviction.

Speak to a Georgia DUI Attorney Today

The police officer’s testimony can be a critical element of your case but a solid defense gives you the chance to overcome your charges and protect your rights and freedoms. To schedule a free consultation with a Georgia DUI defense lawyer at Hawkins Spizman Trial Attorneys please call 770-685-6400.

Hawkins Spizman Trial Attorneys represent individuals in Georgia including Atlanta, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Cobb County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Johns Creek, and Sandy Springs.

Samantha Wolfgang

Source:

dds.georgia.gov/dui-faqs

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn
Skip footer and go back to main navigation