Being pulled over is a stressful experience. However, if the police believe you are intoxicated, it can turn a bad situation into a worse one.
While the laws related to DUI vary from one state to another, you have options to defend yourself.
If you are arrested and charged with DUI in Atlanta, some reasons to defend yourself can be found here.
Understanding Drunk Driving Charges in Atlanta
If you are arrested for a DUI for the first time, you can expect a few things to happen. These include:
- A minimum of 24 hours in jail
- Up to 40 hours of community service
- Driver’s license suspension if convicted
- Fines ranging from $300 to $1,000, and statutory surcharges
- Complete a DUI class that lasts for 20 hours
- Undergo drug and alcohol evaluations from an addiction specialist and follow their recommendations
- 12 months of probation with time in jail deducted after you are arrested
As you can see, even a first DUI results in serious penalties. These alone should be enough to convince you to fight the charges; however, there are a few other reasons to do this, too.
Avoid the Fees and Fines That Go with a DUI Conviction
Dealing with the justice system in any way is expensive. Even if you don’t hire an attorney (but you should), you will still face fines and court costs that can easily exceed $1,000.
What else will you pay out of pocket for a DUI conviction?
This includes increased car insurance rates, installing an ignition interlock device for your vehicle, paying drug screens, and fees for probation or supervision.
You may not think hiring an Atlanta DUI lawyer is the best way to save money; however, if you admit guilt, you will be convicted and must deal with all the penalties and fees listed above. Contact a lawyer to fight the charges; you can use more than a few viable defenses.
Avoid Losing Employment Opportunities
An Atlanta DUI conviction will likely take away employment opportunities. You may be suspended or fired if you are employed when you get the DUI. Remember, this will stay with you on your criminal record.
On top of affecting your job, a DUI can impact your credit score, resulting in higher interest rates for loans. You will be considered a risk for anything you try to apply for.
Hiring an Atlanta DUI lawyer may be the only way to avoid these consequences. Without a DUI conviction, you don’t have to worry about these penalties.
Don’t Wait to Hire an Atlanta DUI Lawyer
If you are facing DUI charges in Atlanta, hiring an attorney is the best step. Be sure to hire this legal professional as early in the legal process as possible to ensure they can provide you with the best possible defense. This will help you get the best possible results for your case.
