First Offense DUI in Georgia

The state of Georgia, in light of first DUI in Georgia arrests, imposes both criminal and administrative penalties of offenders. The administrative penalties may commence prior to conviction of any criminal charge, and in turn, it is advisable any defendant in first DUI in Georgia case seek out legal counsel immediately following arrest to begin addressing impending administrative license suspensions.

Administrative Penalties

• First offense DUI in Georgia results in administrative license suspension of one (1) year

• Refusals to submit under implied consent laws in Georgia results in one (1) year license suspension, if applicable

• License reinstatement for first offense, unless otherwise ordered by courts, does not require ignition interlock device, but will require serving out sentence and payment of reinstatement fines and fees

Criminal Penalties

• First offense penalties in Georgia DUI cases include mandatory minimum period of incarceration for one (1) day with potential of incarceration for period up to one (1) year

• Fines in first offense convictions range from minimum of $300 to not more than $1,000, but fine amount does not include court costs, surcharges, expenses incurred during completion of terms of sentence, or reinstatement costs

• Mandatory alcohol/substance abuse/driver education programs possible, as well as community service mandates

• Convictions of first offense will influence sentencing and charges in subsequent second offense for a period of ten (10) years

Getting Legal Help

The state of Georgia prohibits reduction of DUI charges into lesser criminal convictions as a plea option, however, within a given case, numerous avenues for negotiating a favorable plea deal still do exist. Likewise, defendants should actively seek out dismissal of charges altogether. Either option will require the insight and representation of legal counsel. For more information, consult with a Georgia first DUI lawyer to learn more.