Navigate Multiple DUI Charges With A Skilled North Georgia Lawyer
A conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) can have serious consequences on a person’s life, affecting everything from their freedom to their finances and future opportunities. If you are facing a Georgia DUI offense, your most critical first step is understanding how the law treats first-time offenders and those facing subsequent charges. This knowledge can help you better understand your situation and make informed decisions about your defense.
At Healan Law Offices, P.C., I, William Healan III, bring over 25 years of experience in Georgia criminal defense to every case I handle. As a dedicated DUI defense attorney for communities in North Georgia, I have committed my practice to helping individuals and families in Winder and Barrow County.
What Happens If You Get A Second DUI In Georgia?
To fully grasp the severity of a second DUI offense, it is important to understand what is at stake the first time. While still severe, a first DUI offense typically results in less harsh penalties compared to subsequent violations. These include a year in jail, fines between $300 and $1,000, license suspension for up to a year and 40 hours of community service.
If you get a second conviction within five years of your first offense, the severity of consequences jumps significantly. These include:
- Mandatory jail time of at least 48 hours
- A possible jail sentence that could stretch from 90 days to a full year
- A minimum fine of $600, which can reach up to $1,000
- At least 30 days of community service
- Mandatory clinical evaluation and treatment program at your own expense
As an experienced DUI lawyer, I have seen firsthand the profound impact these cases can have on individuals and their families. That is why I have made it my mission to tirelessly negotiate with prosecutors, advocate for my clients’ rights and develop strategic defenses tailored to each unique situation.
What Happens On Your Third DUI?
Penalties for a third DUI are designed to be harsh deterrents and include a minimum of 15 days in jail, with the possibility of a much longer sentence. Financially, you will face fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. The court may also order a five-year suspension of your license and at least 30 days of community service. The judge may also require you to undergo a clinical evaluation and complete a treatment program at your own expense.
When it comes to multiple DUI offenses, courts typically require the installation of an ignition interlock device for at least six months. This device measures the driver’s blood alcohol content before allowing the car to start.
Fight Your DUI Charges With Winder’s Trusted Defense Attorney
Whether it is your first offense or a subsequent charge, you do not have to face it alone. Call Healan Law Offices, P.C., at 678-661-3318 or email me through an online form. Schedule a consultation today, and let me walk you through your rights and legal options.