People make mistakes. For some, driving home after a drink or two is one of them. For others, taking a medication that doesn’t mix well with alcohol might be another.
No matter what it is that led to a DUI traffic stop in Georgia, you need to know your rights and what to expect if you’re charged with driving under the influence. By learning about your rights early and knowing the possible consequences, you can focus on helping yourself overcome the DUI and, hopefully, minimize or eliminate any possible penalties.
You’ll face administrative and criminal penalties
When you’re charged with a DUI in Georgia, you can face both criminal charges and administrative penalties. Right away, it’s possible for you to lose your license. Criminal penalties, like fines and imprisonment, are handled through the Georgia criminal courts.
Possible penalties for driving under the influence in Georgia include:
- Being required to perform public service
- Jail time
- Fines
- The suspension of your license
- The revocation of your license
If this is your first offense, you could face heavy fines that are up to $1,000, a license suspension for a year and up to a year of jail time. You could also be forced to participate in community service, be on probation or have to take a DUI education course.
For second or subsequent offenses, the fines and penalties increase. You may also be required to use an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) if you have a restricted license.
Don’t forget that criminal and administrative penalties are only some of the challenges you could face. You may also see an impact in your personal or work life, such as having trouble with family members or losing work because of not having a license.
You deserve support if you’re facing a DUI charge
If you are facing a DUI charge, it’s important that you know the penalties that you could face if you’re convicted as well as the ways that the charges could affect you before your case goes to court. Know your legal rights and be prepared to defend against the allegations to protect yourself.