DUI Basics

Georgia DUI Attorneys

Atlanta DUI Lawyers

DUI means driving under the influence. Most people think of alcohol consumption as the only time you can be arrested for DUI, but it also encompasses prescription and recreational drugs. The legal blood limit and consequences for DUI vary from state to state. Most states consider a DUI a misdemeanor, but an increasing number of states are making a DUI a felony. If you are arrested for a DUI, it’s advisable to get a DUI lawyer to help you with your case.

In America, the highest blood-alcohol level allowed is .08 percent. However, each state can make their legal limit lower if they desire. Each state also has the right to have its own laws and punishments for DUI. Most states have increased the punishments for DUI in recent years. Some states have passed laws stating you can be arrested for DUI for sitting or sleeping in a car while drunk. The need for a DUI lawyer is especially great in these cases.

The penalty for a DUI depends on the state, previous DUI convictions, and the severity of the crime. If arrested, you could be facing jail time, fines, or lose your license. Some states require a breath-testing device to be installed in the car. This prevents the car from starting unless you have successfully passed the breath test. Some states may order alcohol education programs or community service. If you are convicted of a DUI, it will be on your permanent record and will increase car insurance rates. These are very good reasons for you to hire a DUI lawyer.
After being arrested for a DUI, you can challenge the arrest. A DUI arrest is based on a sobriety test or a blood alcohol test. A DUI lawyer can help you challenge the evidence, so it’s vital that you find an attorney to help. An attorney that specializes in DUI can help you because DUI law is a specific field of the law.

If you are convicted for a DUI, it will become part of your record. Some states will allow you to have your record expunged for your first offense. This removes the conviction from your record, but if you receive another DUI, the first will be reinstated. In some states, the DUI will be on your record forever. In yet other states, it will be removed after a set period of time.

Because a DUI is based on evidence collected at the scene, it’s important to get an attorney that is experienced in DUI cases. A good DUI lawyer might be able to get you a lower punishment than you would have otherwise. Getting a DUI is a very serious offence and can affect your life in many ways. Your car insurance will go up which will cost you money every month. You may lose your driving privileges temporarily which can cause problems with your family or work. Not being able to drive to work can put your job in jeopardy. A good DUI lawyer can help you with every step of the legal process.