Cumming DUI Lawyer Defending Drivers Accused of Driving Under the Influence

If you were charged with DUI, you’re likely worried about what happens next. After all, this charge is known for resulting in jail time, fines, and suspension of your driver’s license. But that doesn’t have to be your outcome. You can hire a Cumming DUI lawyer for a chance to reduce or avoid serious penalties.

When you contact Carl Chapman P.C., our team will go over the details of your charges before creating a legal defense that makes sense for your case. You might be surprised at what a legal professional with knowledge of Georgia DUI laws can do for you. Pleading guilty and accepting the severe consequences is not your only option. Contact us to learn how we can help.

What Should You Know About Getting a DUI in Georgia?

In this state, you can be charged with DUI if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08% or more. However, the acceptable BAC is even lower in some instances.

If you’re under 21 years old, you can get a DUI with a BAC of .02% or more. If you have a commercial driver’s license (CDL), you can get a DUI if you have a BAC of .04% or more.

Note that a DUI does not only apply to alcohol. If you’re under the influence of drugs while behind the wheel, you can get a DUI in Georgia.

In addition, the average DUI in this state is a misdemeanor charge, but it can become a felony if it’s your fourth conviction within ten years. This is also the case if you seriously injured or killed someone while driving under the influence. Either way, you’ll need a DUI lawyer in Cumming to represent you, so contact Carl Chapman P.C. today.

What Are the DUI Penalties in This State?

The severity of the legal consequences of a conviction makes hiring a lawyer critical. After all, for your first offense, you could face anywhere from ten days to one year in jail. You will also be fined between $300 and $1,000 and expected to complete over 20 hours of community service.

A second DUI within ten years comes with even more serious penalties, including 90 days to 12 months in jail and fines of $600 to $1,000. You will typically have to perform at least 30 days of community service.

If you get a third DUI within ten years, you’ll face 120 days to one year in jail, as well as $1,000 to $5,000 in fines. Additionally, whether it’s your first or third DUI, you can expect probation for 12 months. You will also need to enroll in a drug or alcohol treatment program if the judge recommends it. For a chance to avoid these penalties, you should hire a DUI lawyer in Cumming.

Will You Lose Your License?

The penalties above are in addition to the suspension of your driver’s license. You should file an appeal within 30 days of your arrest if you want a chance to avoid license suspension. Otherwise, your license may be suspended for at least 12 months, though you can often get it reinstated sooner if you pay a fine and complete an education program.

Additionally, you may be eligible for a hardship license, which lets you keep your driving privileges so you can get to work or school. This comes with some restrictions, though, and will require you to get treatment for alcohol or drug abuse first. Your DUI lawyer in Cumming can help you apply for a hardship license or even prevent license suspension in the first place.

Should You Hire a DUI Lawyer in Cumming?

If you were arrested for a DUI, don’t lose hope. There is a chance you can avoid a conviction or at least reduce the penalties, but you will need a skilled lawyer fighting for your rights to do this.

Carl Chapman P.C. has helped many Georgia drivers avoid convictions and keep their driving privileges. If this is the outcome you’re hoping for, call our Cumming criminal defense law firm at 470-206-2169 to discuss your case. Our goal is to use our legal knowledge to help you avoid serious penalties after a DUI charge, so we encourage you to reach out to us for legal assistance today.