Arrested with Prior Convictions on Your Record?
If you have been arrested for DUI, and you already possess prior DUI convictions on your record, then it is likely that you will face additional, enhanced penalties if you are convicted again. To have an improved chance of avoiding these penalties, it is recommended that you contact a DUI attorney who will aggressively defend you against the accusations of the prosecution in your case.
At Zeliff | Watson, we have close to 30 years of combined experience in providing DUI defense to individuals, so we understand how to approach cases in which a person has been charged for a second, third, or fourth subsequent DUI offense. We also understand that the stakes in these cases can be very high, as a conviction can result in the person being placed in jail or prison for a significant amount of time. Our goal is to provide the best possible representation for clients who have been charged with DUI on multiple occasions, in order to give those clients a considerably improved chance of a case outcome that is favorable to them.
Our goal is to provide the best possible representation for clients who have been charged with DUI on multiple occasions, in order to give those clients a considerably improved chance of a case outcome that is favorable to them.
To speak with our experienced multiple DUI lawyers, give us a call at (770) 676-1340 or contact us online today.
Second DUI Conviction Penalties
If you’re convicted of a second DUI charge within 5 years of your first conviction, you’re facing enhanced fines and penalties. For starters, your license will be suspended for 1.5 to 3 years and you’ll need to pay between $600 and $1,000. You’ll also need to pay $210 if you want your license to be reinstated.
- You’ll also need to provide:
- Time and fees for a DUI Risk Reduction program (potentially)
- Clinical evaluation and treatment for alcoholism (potentially)
- 48 hours in jail minimum, with sentencing up to a year
- 30 days minimum of community service
On top of all that, you may need to drive with an ignition interlock device and/or a limited driving permit. The limited driving permit may depend on your BAC at the time of arrest and whether you submitted to a blood or breath test.
Third DUI Conviction Penalties
For every person who is convicted for the third time for DUI, the state of Georgia hits them with Habitual Violator status (HV), revoking the defendant’s license for 5 years and confiscating their license plate. They’ll also be subject to larger fines and sentencing penalties.
The penalties for a third DUI conviction include:
- Up to $5,000 in fines
- $410 fee for reinstating your license
- 15 days in jail minimum
- 30 days of community service minimum
- Mandatory alcohol abuse treatment
- Mandatory DUI Risk Reduction enrollment
After the 5-year license suspension period is over, third-time offenders will need to spend 2 more years driving with a limited permit and an ignition interlock device. Also, in the name of public safety, the court will force you to print your name, address, and photo in the local newspaper as a warning to the community about your driving record.
Fourth DUI Conviction Penalties
The fourth DUI offense in 10 years is considered a felony, meaning that financial and other penalties are magnified further. You’re facing at least 1 year in jail, as well as $1,000 in fines and fees minimum—with up to $5,000 in fines total. However, for being a Habitual Violator, you’re unlikely to receive the minimum sentence. Without the help of a defense attorney, you’re looking at 5 years in jail and over $5,000 in costs.
If you are facing a conviction for your second, third, or fourth subsequent DUI offense, contact a DUI lawyer for immediate defense against your charges.
The following is a non-exhaustive list of courts we defend clients in:
- Fulton County Superior and State Courts
- Atlanta Municipal Court
- Alpharetta Municipal Court
- Milton Municipal Court
- Johns Creek Municipal Court
- Sandy Springs Municipal Court
- Doraville Municipal Court (Dekalb County)
- Suwanee Municipal Court (Gwinnett County)
Understanding Your Rights After a DUI Arrest
Being arrested for a DUI can be a daunting experience, but it’s crucial to remember that you have rights. At Zeliff | Watson, we believe that knowledge is power. Understanding your rights can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here’s what you need to know:
- The Right to Remain Silent: You are not obligated to answer questions without legal representation. It’s often best to wait for your attorney before making any statements.
- The Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to hire a lawyer who specializes in DUI defense. Having experienced counsel can make a substantial difference in your case.
- The Right to Challenge Evidence: You can contest the evidence against you, including breathalyzer results and field sobriety tests. Our legal team will meticulously analyze every detail.
- The Right to a Fair Trial: Every individual is entitled to a fair trial. If the evidence is insufficient, we will fight to have your charges reduced or dismissed.
We understand that navigating the legal system can be overwhelming, especially after a DUI arrest. Our dedicated team at Zeliff | Watson is here to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the best possible defense. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your options.
To speak with our experienced DUI lawyers, give us a call at (770) 676-1340 or contact us online today.
A Simple Process to Getting Started
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
Schedule a free, no-obligation, and confidential case consultation in person, online, or over the phone. This will help you understand how your case can be challenged, potentially leading to a reduction, dismissal, or acquittal of your charges. Click here to schedule your case evaluation.
Meet Our Defense Team and Conduct a Case Evaluation
During your free case evaluation, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, receive answers and legal guidance, and collaborate with our attorneys to better understand your side of the story, gather evidence, and devise a strategy to achieve the best possible outcome for your pending criminal charges.
Start Defending Your Case
After your free case evaluation, Zeliff & Watson will assist in preserving evidence and safeguarding your rights, ensuring your protection throughout the process. The defense team will also provide a proposed fee to represent your case, with the goal of achieving the best possible outcome.