DUI Penalties

DUI Attorneys Serving Hinesville

Driving under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance can have serious consequences. Most DUI cases are charged as misdemeanors; however, more severe cases can be charged as felonies. Even a misdemeanor DUI charge can carry heavy penalties.

Misdemeanor DUI

Most DUI charges fall into this category. Misdemeanor DUI charges include first and second DUI offenses. They also include DUI charges in which the driver's blood alcohol content (BAC) is between .08 and .15.

Felony DUI

More severe DUIs are referred to as "aggravated DUIs," and are categorized as a felony. These charges face stricter penalties than misdemeanor DUIs.

Aggravating factors to a DUI charge include:

Presence of a minor in the car
A BAC over .15
If this is the third DUI charge within 10 years
You cause property damage, injury, or death

Georgia is strict about DUIs, and often a conviction can mean automatic penalties. It is important to get legal representation when facing these charges.

Penalties

The penalties for a DUI are costly. For even a misdemeanor DUI, convicted drivers can expect to face penalties including:

Incarceration
Driver's license suspension or revocation
Expensive fines
Mandatory DUI school
Court costs
Increased insurance rates
Ignition interlock device (IID) installation

For felony DUIs, the consequences are harsh. Felony DUIs are subject to the same penalties as a normal DUI, but can also include:

Probation
Mandatory jail time between 90 days an 6 months
90-day vehicle seizure
Mandatory alcohol safety program completion
Minimum $1,000 fine
Driver's license revocation or suspension

Repeat Offenders

DUI convictions can be especially painful for repeat offenders. With each offense, drivers can expect to see steeper penalties. For multiple convictions within a certain time frame, it is possible that a later charge may be upgraded to a felony charge. For those accused of a third DUI in 10 years, the charge is automatically considered a felony.

Get the Representation You Need

We know your DUI charge could potentially change your life. When charged with a DUI, you need experienced, proven legal representation. Our team is knowledgeable about the complexities of DUI charges, and we are committed to help you fight yours. Our founding lawyers are former military prosecutors. This means that they often know the strategies that other side will use, before they use them. With Balbo & Gregg, you are given the strength of experience.

Contact Balbo & Gregg, Attorneys at Law PC today at (866) 580-3089 to retain our assistance for your DUI case. Consultation is free!