Fitzgerald, GA DUI Law Firms & Lawyers

It depends. Were you actually arrested or just detained. Were you charged with a DUI and, if so, what was the outcome of the case. Without knowing all of the details, it is impossible to give you an adequate answer.

A DUI is not strictly related to alcohol. You can receive a DUI for drugs as well, even legally consumed drugs. Remember, alcohol consumption is also legal. What is illegal is to drive while under the influence of either drugs or alcohol. A DUI is very costly. Punishable by a maximum of 1 year in jail and a $5,000.00 fine. Mandatory minimum jail time is i day, but could be more based upon the facts. Minimum fine is about $1,000.00. suspension of license for 90 days, after suspension you will have an ignition interlock on your car for 1 year; also required to submit to alcohol/drug treatment if the court requires. Insurance rates will increase dramatically.

Usually for a 1st time DUI conviction, there is a 4 to 6 months license suspension, but you may be eligible for a restricted license (to and from school and/or work). If your blood alcohol level is above .20 then there is a 10 month restriction, as well as other enhancements for excessive alcohol. Fines from $390 to $1,000 plus penalty assessments and court costs which beings to the total to about $2,000.00. Your car may be impounded for up to 6 months. Up to 3 year optional ignition interlock device installed on your car. 96 hours to 6 months jail sentence, at least 48 hours of which must be continuance. If you have had a prior DUI within the preceding 10 years, it could be charged as felony with between 1 year and 3 year jail sentence. Depending on the County where the arrest occurred, generally a 1st time DUI offender, with a good attorney, will do little, if any, jail time. However, the defendant will need to jump through some hoops and will be on informal probation from 3 to 5 years. The courts usually order that the defendant pay a fine and penalty assessments which amounts to approximately $1,800.00 plus various other court costs and fees, and either community service or community labor. In addition the defendant must enroll and complete a DUI program. Some courts also require that the defendant participate in a HAM (Hospital and Morgue) Program, MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) Program and have their license suspended. Some courts also require an interlocking device be placed on the Defendant's car, although they can, and sometimes do, defer this to DMV. This is what you are looking at. I suggest that you retain an attorney.