Trusted Criminal Defense Lawyers
If you need legal help in Atlanta, GA, our Atlanta DUI lawyers are here for you. Skilled, aggressive defense for DUI cases. Call now for assistance.
Author: J. Blake Ledbetter, Partner, Conoscienti & Ledbetter
Mr. Ledbetter specializes in civil litigation in metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia, and possesses vast experience in wrongful death lawsuits. Mr. Ledbetter was recognized as a SuperLawyers Rising Star in 2018 and 2019 in the area of Civil Litigation. Published on May 14, 2021.
Speak with experienced DUI lawyers today, for free.
EXPERIENCED DUI LAWYER ATLANTA
Atlanta DUI attorneys will protect your interests if you have been arrested for DUI charges. Many people do not realize that you could be charged with driving under the influence when taking over-the-counter or prescription medications if their judgment or responses are impaired. You will likely require an experienced Atlanta DUI defense lawyer if that happens.
This is a crime that has potentially severe penalties. Whether you are a state resident or are merely visiting, if you are accused of driving while impaired, it is a criminal offense.
Under Georgia DUI laws, anyone driving a motorized vehicle can get a DWI or a DUI, including boats, golf carts, lawnmowers, or motorized scooters. Although people riding a skateboard while drunk may be charged with public intoxication, they won’t be charged with a DUI.
Since the laws may seem complicated and can result in a license suspension of one year or more, along with other consequences, the legal team of criminal defense attorneys at Conoscienti & Ledbetter Attorneys at Law can help defend DUI cases. Your Metro Atlanta DUI attorney can reinstate your driving privileges if you suffer from the revocation of your driver’s license.
EXPERIENCED CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS IN ATLANTA FOR DRUNK DRIVING CHARGES
Even if it is your first DWI offense, you should retain Atlanta’s best GA DUI attorneys. According to Georgia DUI law, driving under the influence is a misdemeanor, and if convicted, individuals face stiff penalties. Every DUI case is potentially complex with long-term ramifications. A skilled attorney in the area can inform you about the laws surrounding the facts of your case and the state in which the offense occurred.
A DUI arrest in Fulton County usually begins with a stop by police officers. However, a police officer can’t initiate a traffic stop for an arbitrary reason. Unless it is a mandatory checkpoint, there should be a reasonable and explainable reason that something is amiss.
How an Atlanta DUI Lawyer Determines Reasonable Suspicion
Reasonable suspicion in Atlanta, GA, is established when the officer claims to have observed an offense like the following:
- Aggressive Driving
- Child Endangerment
- Vehicular Homicide
- Failure to Maintain Your Lane
- Following Too Closely
- Reckless Driving
- Speeding
- Violation to Observe a Stop Sign
- Weaving
Other cases begin with an at-fault vehicular accident. Causing a wreck is reason enough to begin a DUI investigation.
If a police officer believes you are impaired, they require no warrants to search. If they feel compelled to make a stop, they can administer a field sobriety test or a breathalyzer test to confirm whether they are impaired or intoxicated.
Best DUI Lawyers Require Proof of Probable Cause
Having a reasonable probable cause is necessary to warrant arresting a person, which means it should be likely and verifiable that there was significant evidence that a crime was committed. Although sufficient evidence exists to accuse a suspect, a skilled DUI lawyer can argue.
Some of the actions that may contribute to an arrest include:
- Admission of Guilt
- Alcoholic Odor
- Bloodshot, Glassy, Red, or Watery Eyes
- Difficulty Answering Questions
- Difficulty Leaving the Vehicle or Leaning Against It for Support
- Difficulty Locating License and Registration
- Facial Flush
- Poor Control Over the Vehicle
- Problems With Field Examination
- Slurred Speech
- Swaying, Trembling, or Unsteadiness
These regulations were designed by the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHTSA) to help law enforcement officers determine probable cause to arrest accused drivers suspected of operating under the influence.
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What Happens Next in a Case Atlanta DUI Defense Lawyers Try
If a first-offense driver is convicted of driving with an alcohol level of 0.08 or greater, they face a fine of up to $1,000 or one year in jail, according to Georgia law. If there was a minor in the vehicle when the offense was committed, the driver faces up to two years in prison.
For a second DUI offense within ten years, penalties intensify; individuals may face fines from $600 to $1,000, mandatory jail time from 90 days to one year, and a possible three-year license suspension. Additionally, the court may require completion of a DUI Alcohol or Drug Use Risk Reduction Program and community service of at least 30 days.
The third DUI offense escalates to a high and aggravated misdemeanor, with fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, and incarceration from 120 days to 12 months, of which at least 15 days must be served. License suspension extends to five years, alongside the requirement for an ignition interlock device upon reinstatement.
By the fourth offense, the charge becomes a felony with even more severe consequences. Penalties include fines up to $5,000, imprisonment between one to five years, and permanent revocation of the driver’s license in certain situations.
These stringent measures underscore the necessity of skilled legal guidance to navigate the complexities of Georgia’s DUI laws and mitigate the severe impacts of repeat offenses. Conoscenti & Ledbetter are well-equipped to provide this guidance, ensuring informed decisions throughout the legal process.
Choose the Best DUI Attorneys When You Are Arrested
If your blood alcohol content (BAC) is over 0.08 in Georgia, you will be considered impaired in court. However, your attorney may question the results of the BAC chemical test.
A knowledgeable attorney will understand the nuances of Georgia law and be able to mount a successful defense. They will also be familiar with the Georgia Supreme Court protocols, which impose particular standards for those accused of DUI.
The right lawyer will be able to develop an effective and creative legal strategy that reduces the penalties or avoids conviction altogether. When choosing other DUI lawyers, ask them the following questions:
- Do you have experience with similar cases?
- What strategies would you use to defend my case?
- What is your track record for success with DUI cases?
- What type of fees do you charge?
Once you have chosen a lawyer, they can assess the situation and determine if sufficient evidence exists to build an aggressive defense strategy. You should also know the repercussions of a DUI conviction, including expensive fines, losing driving privileges, and jail time.
With the help of an experienced attorney, you may be able to avoid conviction and live a more normal life.
Why You Need DUI Lawyers IN GA, Atlanta
You will require DUI lawyers in Atlanta, Georgia if you have been involved in a vehicular homicide or an accident that caused a serious injury due to driving while intoxicated. You will want the best DUI lawyer if you plan to launch a drunk driving defense for alcohol or prescription drug DUI cases.
These may cause the arresting officer to initiate a breathalyzer or other tests. Incidents of reckless driving might further exacerbate charges if you are later accused of failing standardized field sobriety tests. You could face a DUI charge if you plead guilty rather than seek legal counsel.
The most important thing is to choose a qualified and experienced Atlanta DUI lawyer who knows the laws in Georgia. They should also be capable of evaluating your case and developing a defense strategy that minimizes your penalties.
With the help of an experienced attorney, you may be able to avoid conviction altogether or receive lighter penalties. A successful DUI defense depends largely on your lawyer’s skills and knowledge.
Therefore, it is essential to remember that the best way to protect yourself is to hire the right legal representation. A reputable DUI lawyer will have a successful track record in defending their clients and be willing to listen to your side of the story.
They will also be able to explain complex legal terms and advise on how best to proceed with your case. You may also gain access to their legal resources, including the most up-to-date information on DUI laws in Georgia.
Possible Consequences for DUI
When you are in court charged with being drunk while driving, the DUI prosecutor has a charge to bring the case to court. Several things may influence the result of the hearing. Some of the consequences after getting a DUI in metro Atlanta include:
- Community Service
- DUI School
- Ignition Interlock Device
- License Suspensions
Skilled DUI Lawyers in Atlanta
Our skilled DUI lawyers in Atlanta can represent you in the Fulton County State Court of Dekalb County Traffic Court and provide the best possible DUI defense in criminal law cases. They can reduce the repercussions of charges, especially if you are accused with little cause.
DUI Attorney Atlanta GA for Exemplary Representation
Your DUI attorney in Atlanta, GA, will offer superior advice and advocacy in municipal court. You need an Atlanta DUI lawyer from the best criminal defense law firm to avoid a DUI conviction.
Choosing a DUI Law Firm
DUI law firms are well-versed in the Georgia statute of limitations. The right Atlanta DUI attorneys will provide skilled legal information and representation when you are fighting a felony DUI in GA. To avoid losing your driver’s license, reach out to a DeKalb County DUI lawyer with a history of having a good attorney-client relationship
As you may face severe DUI penalties if you are accused of driving under the influence of alcohol, over-the-counter, or prescription drugs, you should have super lawyers with experience in DUI cases to create a strong defense strategy.
Contact a Trusted Atlanta DUI Attorney
If you are facing a DUI charge in Atlanta, it is crucial to contact a trusted and experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible. They will be able to guide you through the legal process and develop a strong defense strategy on your behalf.
When choosing an Atlanta DUI attorney, it is important to consider their experience with similar cases, their track record of success with DUI cases, and their fees. Quality and credibility are essential qualities to look for in a DUI lawyer, as they can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
In addition, a good DUI attorney should also be knowledgeable about Atlanta’s criminal justice system and have experience working with Georgia laws. They should be able to explain complex legal terms and advise you on the best course of action for your case.
At Conoscienti & Ledbetter, we have a team of skilled and experienced Atlanta DUI lawyers who can provide exemplary representation for your case. We offer a free consultation to discuss your situation and provide you with valuable insights and advice.
Don’t face DUI charges alone – contact our criminal defense law firm today for expert legal representation and guidance. We are dedicated to helping you mitigate the consequences of a DUI charge and protect your rights. Trust us to be your advocate in the court of law.
Decatur Office
(404) 373-5800
315 W Ponce de Leon Ave. Suite 400 Decatur, GA 30030
