Hiring the right defense attorney for a DUI charge within the city of Cumming, or Forsyth County Georgia could be the most important decision you ever make. A DUI conviction is not limited to the cost of a DUI attorney and a fine.

A DUI conviction will cause your car insurance rates to increase exponentially which may force you to trade vehicles for something less expensive. A DUI conviction can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

Dismiss or Reduce a DUI Charge

A local criminal defense attorney, with years of experience trying and winning DUI cases should be consulted as soon as possible. An expert attorney will know what outcomes to expect, and how to have your DUI charge dismissed or reduced. But time to prepare the best defense is crucial to a successful outcome, so notify your attorney immediately.

DUI in Georgia

Within the state of Georgia, the term “DUI” means “driving under the influence”. “DUI” also includes operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated from drinking alcohol or under the influence of drugs or any other substance which may cause you to be impaired.

Stopped for DUI

If you have been stopped by the police for suspicion of DUI, the entire event will be recorded to be used as evidence. Being kind and respectful toward the police officer will serve you best as your behavior will be shown in court should the case go to trial.

Refusing a Field Sobriety Test

If the officer deems a field sobriety test and a search of your car and person appropriate, you must either refuse or submit. Be aware that if you refuse, the officer may request a warrant for a blood alcohol test as well as a search warrant for your vehicle. However, probable cause must be given in order to justify search warrants.

Speeding, swerving in and out of lanes or driving erratically will be used as evidence for the case to lawfully stop you and request to perform a field sobriety test. If this was the case, and you feel certain to fail the field sobriety test, it is within your rights to politely refuse. You will likely be taken to the police station or sheriff’s office where you should call an attorney as soon as you are able.

Submitting To a Field Sobriety Test

You should only give consent to the field sobriety and portable DUI breath test, if you are certain you can pass it; otherwise you will be arrested, taken into custody and your vehicle will be impounded.

You will likely be tested again at the police station, and you may also request that a blood sample be taken from a reasonable independent source such as a local hospital lab. Contact a criminal defense attorney who specializes in DUI cases brought forth by the police department of Cumming Georgia or the Forsyth County Sheriff.

Georgia DUI Fines and Penalties

Georgia DUI fines and penalties are seen in the table below but may be increased or decreased depending upon the specifics of your individual case.

	1st Offense	2nd Offense	3rd Offense
Jailtime	10 days to 12 months	90 days to 12 months	120 days to 12 months
Fine	$300 to $1,000	$600 to $1,000	$1,000 to $5,000
License Suspension	12 months	18 months	60-month revocation

Anyone facing a DUI charge should consult with an attorney, who can possibly get the fines and penalties reduced to a minimum and in some cases, have the case dismissed.

DUI Defense Available in

• Cumming, Georgia
• Forsyth County, Georgia