Lawrenceville DUI Lawyers

Driving under the influence is a serious criminal charge in Georgia. DUI convictions can lead to jail sentences and high fines. Just as serious, convicted drivers must also deal with a criminal record that could affect future employment opportunities.

A Lawrenceville DUI lawyer can help you fight these charges and avoid conviction when possible. If you are facing a DUI or related charge in Lawrenceville, contact a distinguished criminal attorney to begin discussing your case.

Defining Impaired Driving

Georgia drivers are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. Intoxication is measured by a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) level. State law defines intoxication as having a BAC of 0.08 percent or more. When a motorist drives with a BAC of 0.08 percent, they could face a DUI charge. Anyone facing these charges should contact a Lawrenceville DUI lawyer.

Certain classes of drivers could face the same charge even if their BAC is lower than the 0.08 percent standard. Commercial drivers, like those who operate tractor-trailers or delivery trucks, could be charged with a DUI if they have a BAC of 0.04 percent. Minor drivers (those under the age of 21) could face a DUI charge if they drive with a BAC of just 0.02 percent.

Drivers under the impairment of drugs also face a DUI charge. The law makes no distinction between impairment caused by legal or illegal drugs. This means that a driver impaired by prescription medication, such as sleeping or pain medication, could face a DUI charge.

Consequences of a DUI Conviction

For a first time DUI conviction, drivers face the following penalties:

• Between ten days and one year in jail – all but 24 hours may be suspended
• A maximum fine of $1,000
• Required attendance in a DUI and alcohol awareness program
• 40 hours of community service
• One-year driver’s license suspension
• One-year probation period

For a second DUI conviction within ten years, penalties could include:

• Between 90 days and one year in jail – all but 72 hours may be suspended
• A maximum fine of $1,000
• Required attendance in a DUI and alcohol awareness program
• 30 days of community service
• Three-year driver’s license suspension one-year probation period
• Requirement to install an ignition interlock device
• Required alcohol treatment/rehabilitation

Lawrenceville DUI lawyers have seen penalties for each subsequent DUI conviction increase and can include long terms in jail.

Role of Underage Drivers

The consequences of a DUI conviction in Lawrenceville are not limited to the legal penalties. Many convicted drivers also face limited employment and education opportunities.

Because of the lowered legal intoxication limits for drivers under the age of 21, many students face DUI charges when a driver over 21 would not. High school and college students could miss out on educational opportunities if convicted of DUI.

Often, educational institutions factor a student’s criminal record into their acceptance and scholarship decisions. A student’s or other driver’s best chance at avoiding conviction is to contact a Lawrenceville DUI defense lawyer.

Defending Impaired Driving

If you are facing a DUI charge in Lawrenceville, contact a DUI defense attorney. An experienced Lawrenceville DUI lawyer can defend you against DUI and related charges, helping you avoid serious consequences when possible. Contact a lawyer today to learn more.

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