The Phillips Law Firm

Driving Under the Influence

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misdemeanor charges
The Phillips Law Firm

DUI Attorney

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Georgia, carrying significant legal and personal consequences. Georgia has strict DUI laws aimed at preventing impaired driving, and penalties for violations can escalate based on factors like prior convictions and the circumstances of the case.

Given the complexity and high stakes of DUI cases, legal representation is essential. A skilled attorney can help protect your rights, navigate legal proceedings, and work toward minimizing the impact of a DUI charge. Many attorneys simply take the first plea offered; Dean Phillips has an aggressive approach and is committed to getting you the best outcome possible. Contact us today about your case. 

Criminal Defense Attorney for DUI Charges in Georgia

Overview of DUI Cases in Georgia

Legal Standards for DUI in Georgia

  • Per Se DUI: A driver is considered legally intoxicated if their Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher for individuals 21 and older, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and 0.02% for drivers under 21.
  • DUI Less Safe: Even with a BAC below the legal limit, a driver can be charged if their ability to operate a vehicle is impaired due to alcohol or drugs.

 

Penalties for DUI Convictions
Georgia imposes strict penalties for DUI offenses, which may include:

  • First Offense: Fines of $300–$1,000, jail time (1 day to 12 months), mandatory DUI education, community service, and a license suspension.
  • Second Offense: Heavier fines, longer jail sentences, mandatory ignition interlock devices, and additional community service.
  • Third or Subsequent Offenses: Felony charges may apply, resulting in substantial fines, extended jail time, and long-term license revocation.

 

Aggravating Factors
Penalties can be harsher in cases involving:

  • High BAC levels (0.15% or above)
  • Underage passengers in the vehicle
  • Accidents causing injury or death

 

Defenses in DUI Cases
Effective DUI defenses in Georgia may include challenging the validity of the traffic stop, questioning the accuracy of breath or blood tests, or identifying procedural errors by law enforcement.

Implied Consent Law
Under Georgia’s implied consent law, drivers are required to submit to chemical testing if lawfully arrested for DUI. Refusal to comply can lead to an automatic license suspension and be used as evidence in court.

Administrative Penalties
In addition to criminal charges, DUI cases involve administrative penalties through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS), including license suspension. Drivers have a limited window (30 days) to request an Administrative License Suspension (ALS) hearing or apply for an ignition interlock permit.

What to do if you are charged with DUI:

Mr. Phillips represents DUI clients throughout all of the counties in the metro area. For a free consultation, call 770-627-5936. 

Let us take it from here

770-627-5936

313 Lawrence Street,
Marietta, GA 30060

Affordable Rates/Payment Options:

We understand that being arrested is an unplanned event. We offer affordable rates and payment options to assist you during this difficult time. 

Call for a free consultation to discuss your criminal case and our rates.