Articles Posted in DUI

Facing a DUI charge for the first time can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure about the potential consequences. If you’re searching for answers about what to expect, you’re not alone. Many people in Georgia want to know, “What is the most common sentence for a first DUI?” Understanding the typical penalties, license implications, and possible outcomes can help you make informed decisions about your next steps. If you’re navigating this process, consulting with an experienced Atlanta DUI lawyer can make a significant difference in your case. Wondering if hiring a lawyer is worth it? Check out our insights on is a DUI lawyer a waste of money?

What Is the Most Common Sentence for a First DUI?

For most first-time DUI offenders in Georgia, the sentence is a combination of several penalties, rather than just one. The most common sentence for a first DUI in Georgia typically includes:

By: William C. Head, Larry Kohn and Cory Yager, Top-Rated DUI Defense Lawyers in Georgia and Legal Book Co-Authors

While no other state has a “wet” reckless statute, the highly publicized case involving Paris Hilton highlights the importance of engaging genuine experts in DUI law to consistently achieve the most favorable outcomes. Settling a client’s case instead of fighting that very “winnable” case is not only not wise, but (as in this example) apparently set up the client for failure within a week’s time.

Hollywood influencer Paris Hilton was arrested in Hollywood, California for a DUI on September 7, 2006. Her “reading” was 0.080 grams percent, which was (and still is) the lowest adult BAC level for the State of California allowing for a possible conviction of DUI per se or “driving with an unlawful alcohol level.”

By: Larry Kohn, DUI Law Book Co-Author and Partner at Our Legal Firm

Many first-time GA DUI arrests of drivers in Georgia don’t know what to do and will refuse the port-arrest testing requested by the law enforcement officer. Many are so upset about being cuffed that they “shut down” wanting to cooperate with law enforcement.

After refusing to submit to post-arrest testing, though, many are quite shocked to learn that they are still being accused of DUI charges in GA. On top of that, their “refusal” to be tested (under Georgia’s implied consent laws) puts their ability to keep driving at risk for up to a full YEAR!

Working with an experienced Atlanta DUI lawyer is essential to understanding why these delays often serve a strategic purpose in building a stronger defense. Statistically, the odds of getting DUI dropped in Georgia tend to increase the longer a case winds its way through the court system.

When facing DUI charges in Georgia, many people become frustrated with how long their cases take to resolve. During the COVID-19 Pandemic starting in 2020, the frustration level (for everyone) was at its very peak. Next, if you hired a top-shelf DUI attorney near me to FIGHT your case, you should have expected a longer litigation process. Pleading guilty is something every accused person can do alone, although this is almost always one of their biggest lifetime mistakes.

Next, if you hired a top-shelf DUI attorney near me to FIGHT your case, you should have expected a longer litigation process. Pleading guilty is something every accused person can do alone, although this is almost always one of their biggest lifetime mistakes.

Facing DUI charges in Atlanta can leave you wondering about your chances of dismissal and the best path forward. While Georgia maintains a 95% conviction rate for DUIs, strategic defense tactics significantly impact outcomes. Below, we analyze dismissal likelihood, defense strategies, sentencing patterns, and case weaknesses—all critical for protecting your rights and future.

An Atlanta DUI lawyer can exploit these vulnerabilities, while those questioning if hiring counsel is a DUI lawyer waste of money often face harsher outcomes due to missed legal opportunities.

What Are the Chances of Getting a DUI Dismissed?

Strange DUI cases often make headlines, but even unusual circumstances can lead to serious legal consequences. If you’re facing DUI charges, an experienced Atlanta DUI lawyer can help evaluate your situation and determine signs that a DUI case is weak to build your defense.

From a man driving a Barbie car to a Santa gone rogue in a Christmas parade, discover some of the strangest DUI cases that show how alcohol-impaired judgment can lead to bizarre situations. These real cases demonstrate why even unconventional vehicles can result in serious DUI charges.

What’s the Worst DUI You Can Get?

A DUI arrest can feel like your whole world is crashing down. The fear of losing your license, your job, or even your freedom can be overwhelming. But take a deep breath – not every DUI charge leads to a conviction. An experienced Atlanta DUI lawyer can spot signs that a DUI case is weak and help you fight back against these serious charges. Understanding what makes the odds of avoiding a DUI conviction improve is your first step toward taking control of your situation.

What Makes a DUI Case Weak?

Many DUI cases have significant vulnerabilities that an experienced defense attorney can identify and challenge. Signs that a DUI case is weak often emerge during a thorough review of your arrest details. The most common weaknesses include improper police procedures during the traffic stop, issues with field sobriety testing, or problems with blood alcohol testing equipment.

If you’ve been charged with DUI in Georgia, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your future. An Atlanta DUI lawyer can evaluate your case and identify potential weaknesses that could lead to reduced charges or dismissal. Understanding the signs of a weak DUI case can help you make informed decisions about your defense strategy.

What Is the Best Defense Against a DUI?

A strong defense strategy is crucial when facing DUI charges. The most effective approach often involves challenging the evidence and procedures used in your arrest. The chances of getting a DUI reduced to reckless driving increase significantly when your attorney can identify procedural errors or constitutional violations. Your defense might focus on challenging the initial traffic stop’s legitimacy, questioning breathalyzer calibration, examining field sobriety test administration, or investigating officer training and certification.

When facing DUI charges in Georgia, the cost of legal representation might feel overwhelming on top of everything else you’re dealing with. Working with an Atlanta DUI lawyer is a critical step toward protecting your future, and while some skeptical people will think, “DUI lawyer waste of money,” the reality is that experienced legal representation can mean the difference between moving forward with your life or facing devastating consequences. Attorney Larry Kohn has represented thousands of relieved clients for over 25 years, and is annually rated a 5-star Super Lawyer.

How Much Do Most Lawyers Charge for a DUI?

In Georgia, DUI defense fees typically range from $2,500 to $15,000 for a first offense, with a top criminal defense attorney Atlanta charging between $5,000 to $10,000. While this might seem steep, consider what’s really at stake – your freedom, career, and future opportunities. How much is a DUI lawyer in Georgia? The investment varies based on the attorney’s experience and track record, the complexity of your case, whether your case goes to trial, the specific circumstances of your arrest, and the jurisdiction where you’re charged.