Does Being Arrested For A DUI In Atlanta Mean You Will Be Found Guilty?
If you are arrested for a DUI in Georgia should you go to court and be found guilty, then the range of penalties and how severe they will be can vary. This is because there are several factors that will go into determining how harsh your punishment will be. For example, if this was your first offense or if you have multiple DUI arrests in your recent past it will matter when it comes time for sentencing. Putting aside how the penalties are decided, even with one DUI guilty verdict, the penalties are going to be significant. And this is just within the criminal justice system. Outside of the system having a criminal record and potentially having to take time away from your job to serve time behind bars, can greatly impact the quality of your life and your ability to thrive and prosper after your penalties have been satisfied.
It is critical that when you go to court, you are armed with the most knowledgeable and skilled legal counsel in your area. For residents of Atlanta, the DeKalb County DUI attorneys at Hawkins Spizman Trial Attorneys can help you defend your rights and interests.
When Does a DUI Arrest Mean You Will Be Found Guilty?
When arrested for a DUI it is best to stay quiet and call your attorney as soon as you are able. Thinking you can speak to the arresting police officer and somehow talk your way out of your situation is a bad idea. Anything you say can and will be used against you and you may not even know you are saying something that can jeopardize your case. If you can control your impulse to speak and instead get your attorney by your side, your attorney can do the talking on your behalf and better manage your situation.
You have rights after an arrest including the right to stay silent and not self-incriminate. And when you go to court you do not have to plead guilty to committing a DUI. In fact, you should not plead guilty or no contest. When you do this your arrest will result in criminal penalties because you will be guilty, and your case is over.
By contrast, if you do not admit guilt, then you are giving yourself the best fighting chance to have your charges reduced or even dropped. Being arrested for a DUI does not automatically mean that you are guilty and that the maximum penalties will apply. You will be guilty only if you are unable to overcome your charges in court or if you willingly admit to guilt. This is why it is beneficial to have an experienced attorney by your side helping you protect and preserve your rights and to secure the best possible results.
Speak with an Atlanta DUI Lawyer Today
You should not attempt to defend yourself against DUI charges alone and your charges do not mean you will inevitably be found guilty. Call the Atlanta DUI lawyers at Hawkins Spizman Trial Attorneys at 770-685-6400 to schedule a free, initial case evaluation today. Mike Hawkins is Board Certified in DUI Defense by the National College for DUI Defense, as recognized by the American Bar Association. As of this writing, there are only 4 lawyers in Georgia who have passed the board certification exam.
Hawkins Spizman Trial Attorneys represent individuals charged with DUIs in Georgia including Atlanta, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Cobb County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Johns Creek, and Sandy Springs.
Source:
dds.georgia.gov/dui-faqs
