DUI Defense Lawyers
Defending Against DUI Charges
Have you or a loved one been arrested for DUI? Crawford and Boyle, LLC, represents clients facing all types of DUI-related charges. Our DUI defense attorneys understand this can be a stressful situation and provide client-focused, personalized attention to every case.
Georgia Implied Consent Law
In the state of Georgia, a DUI is commonly defined as operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other substances that impair one’s capability to drive safely on the road. The legal limit in Georgia for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%. Under Georgia law, if you are lawfully arrested for driving under the influence while on Georgia roads, you have already consented to and are therefore required to submit to chemical testing.
These tests include:
- Breath
- Blood
- Urine
When a police officer has lawfully arrested you for DUI, they are required to advise you of these tests by reading or reciting the “implied consent notice.” If you then refuse to submit to testing, you could be subject to further penalties, including a mandatory license suspension.
The state of Georgia does not allow drivers to consult an attorney before making a decision about these tests. It is imperative that you contact Crawford and Boyle, LLC, as soon as possible to begin building your DUI defense.
DUI Penalties in Georgia
Our criminal defense attorneys are former prosecutors with more than 50 combined years of experience working DUI cases. We use this experience to provide quality defense for clients facing these kinds of charges, including first DUI offenses, subsequent offenses, felony DUI, underage DUI, and DUI drugs. We also handle severe DUI-related matters, such as vehicular homicide and serious injury by vehicle.
First Offense DUI
The penalties for your first DUI conviction may include:
- Up to 12 months in jail and a mandatory minimum 10 days in jail
- 12 months’ probation
- Up to a $1,000 fine
- One-year license suspension
- Ignition interlock device
- Alcohol evaluation and treatment
- DUI School/Risk Reduction
- 40 hours of community service
Second Offense DUI
The penalties for your second DUI conviction may include:
- Up to 12 months in jail and a mandatory minimum of 90 days in jail
- 12 months' probation
- Up to a $1,000 fine
- Three-year license suspension
- Ignition interlock device
- Alcohol evaluation and treatment
- DUI School/Risk Reduction
- 240 hours of community service
Third Offense DUI
The penalties for your third DUI conviction may include:
- Up to 12 months in jail and a mandatory minimum of 120 days in jail
- 12 months' probation
- Up to a $5,000 fine
- Five-year license revocation
- Ignition interlock device
- Alcohol evaluation and treatment
- DUI School/Risk Reduction
- 240 hours of community service
Fourth Offense DUI
The penalties for your fourth DUI conviction may include:
- Felony – Up to five years in prison mandatory minimum of one year
- Fine of $5,000
- 60 days of community service
- DUI School/Risk Reduction
- Clinical Evaluation
DUI in Georgia carries mandatory sentencing, meaning the judge must impose a specific punishment for any conviction. In addition, the indirect costs of a DUI can impact your life for years. You may find that your insurance premiums have increased or that you are unable to purchase car insurance at all.
Employment of any type can be difficult to find and maintain with a DUI on your record, a suspended license, or both. Our DUI defense lawyers provide personal service to every client.
Understanding the DUI Court Process
Navigating the DUI court process can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time facing such charges. At Crawford and Boyle, LLC, we believe that knowledge is power. Understanding the steps involved can help alleviate some of the anxiety associated with your case.
Here’s a brief overview of what to expect:
ALS Suspension Hearing:
If you refused the State’s test or submitted to the test and registered over the legal limit your license may be suspended before your first court date. You must file an appeal within 30 days of your arrest to contest this suspension. It is imperative that you have retained counsel before the 30 days expires.
This is your first court appearance where you’ll be formally charged. It’s crucial to have legal representation at this stage to ensure your rights are protected.
Pre-Trial Motions:
Your attorney can file motions to challenge the evidence against you or negotiate plea deals with the prosecution.
Trial:
If your case goes to trial, our experienced DUI defense lawyers will present your case, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome.
Sentencing:
If found guilty, this is where the judge will impose penalties. Our team will work tirelessly to minimize the consequences you face.
Each DUI case is unique, and having a knowledgeable attorney by your side can make a significant difference. We are committed to guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring you understand your options and rights. Don’t face your DUI charges alone—reach out to us today for a consultation.
Underage DUI
Similar to adult DUI, the state of Georgia takes underage DUI very seriously. However, unlike adults, where the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is .08%, drivers under the age of 21 cannot exceed a BAC of .02%.
If your child is facing underage DUI charges, it is important to have an attorney who can help navigate the complex nature of your case. At Crawford and Boyle, LLC, our attorneys understand that every situation is unique and are ready to fight for not only your child’s rights but also their future.
The penalties for underage DUI vary, but in general, they can include:
- Fines up to $1,000
- Up to 12 months of jail time
- Minimum 40 hours of community service
- Revoked license
- Alcohol evaluation and treatment
- DUI School/Risk Reduction
Defenses Against DUI Charges in Georgia
There are several defenses against DUI charges in Georgia, but the most effective strategy will be dependent on the specific circumstances surrounding the case.
Below are some possible defenses that could be used:
Lack of Probable Cause:
If law enforcement did not have a reasonable cause to pull you over or arrest you, your DUI charge may be dismissed.
If the breathalyzer that was used to measure your BAC was not calibrated correctly or was used inaccurately, the results may not be accurate.
Field sobriety tests can be subjective and can be affected by several factors, including fatigue or nerves. If you fail a field sobriety test, you may be able to contest the accuracy of the test and reason that the results should be suppressed.
If your BAC was below the legal limit during the arrest but was above the legal limit when you were tested at the police station, you could be able to reason that your BAC was rising at the time of your arrest and that you were not intoxicated when driving.
If you are facing DUI charges, it’s important to work with a DUI attorney at Crawford and Boyle, LLC, who can help you understand your legal options and help build a strong defense on your behalf.
What Our DUI Defense Lawyers Do
Our DUI lawyers play a pivotal role in assisting those charged with DUI offenses to navigate the complexities of Georgia’s legal system. With their in-depth knowledge of DUI laws and procedures, these attorneys are invaluable in safeguarding the rights of the accused while striving for the most favorable outcome. By leveraging their expertise and experience, a DUI defense attorney can make the difference between severe penalties and potentially reduced or dismissed charges, ensuring their clients receive fair and just treatment under the law.
Services provided by DUI lawyers include:
- Detailed Case Analysis:
Conducting thorough reviews of the circumstances leading to the arrest to identify any procedural errors or rights violations. - Evidence Evaluation:
Scrutinizing the accuracy and legality of the evidence, including breathalyzer and field sobriety test results. - Local Knowledge:
Every traffic court handles cases differently, and you want to ensure your lawyer regularly appears in that court and knows how to get things done. - Legal Representation:
Offering professional representation in court hearings and at DMV hearings regarding license suspensions. - Plea Negotiations:
Negotiating with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties, leveraging any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. - Legal Guidance and Support:
Providing clear guidance through the legal process and emotional support during this challenging period. - License Restoration Assistance:
Helping clients to restore driving privileges and navigate the administrative requirements for license reinstatement.
Why Choose Crawford and Boyle, LLC for Your DUI Defense?
When facing a DUI charge, the stakes are incredibly high. Choosing the right legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At Crawford and Boyle, LLC, we understand the complexities of DUI laws in Georgia and are committed to providing you with the best defense possible. Here are just a few reasons why our firm stands out:
Experienced Legal Team:
Our attorneys have extensive experience handling DUI cases throughout Georgia. We stay updated on the latest laws and legal strategies to ensure you receive the best defense.
Personalized Approach:
We believe that every case is unique. Our team takes the time to understand your specific circumstances and tailor our defense strategy to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
Proven Track Record:
Our successful history of defending clients against DUI charges speaks for itself. We have helped many individuals reduce their penalties, secure favorable plea deals, or even get charges dismissed.
From the moment you contact us, we provide continuous support and guidance throughout the legal process. We are here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Free Initial Consultation:
We offer a no-obligation consultation to discuss your case. This allows you to understand your options and the potential strategies we can employ without any financial commitment.
Don’t leave your future to chance. Contact Crawford and Boyle, LLC today for a dedicated and effective defense against your DUI charges. Let us help you navigate this challenging time with confidence.
Contact Our DUI Attorney Today
Contact Crawford and Boyle, LLC, online or call (678) 680-5000 today to get started on your defense with our DUI lawyer.
Implied consent notice for suspects age 21 or over:
The State of Georgia has conditioned your privilege to drive upon the highways of this state upon your submission to state-administered chemical tests of your blood, breath, urine, or other bodily substances for the purpose of determining if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
If you refuse this testing, your Georgia driver’s license or privilege to drive on the highways of this state will be suspended for a minimum period of one year. Your refusal to submit to blood or urine testing may be offered into evidence against you at trial.
If you submit to testing and the results indicate an alcohol concentration of 0.08 grams or more, your Georgia driver’s license or privilege to drive on the highways of this state may be suspended for a minimum period of one year.
After first submitting to the requested state tests, you are entitled to additional chemical tests of your blood, breath, urine, or other bodily substances at your own expense and from qualified personnel of your own choosing. Will you submit to the state-administered chemical tests of your (designate which test)?’
1205 Notice (need file of form in ALS Section)