Atlanta DUI Lawyer

A prior DUI conviction does not mean you are guilty of a second DUI.  However, if you are convicted of a second DUI, then you face harsher penalties and fines.

Second DUI Penalties:

As measured from the dates of previous arrests for which convictions were obtained or pleas of nolo contendere were accepted to the date of the current arrest for which a conviction is obtained or a plea of nolo contendere is accepted, within the previous ten years

• $600-$1,000 fine plus any statutory charges
• 12 months active probation
• 90 days to 12 months in jail (the judge may suspend all but 72 hours)
• 12 months “hard suspension” (total loss of driving privileges for the first 12 months)
• 18 months mandatory suspension before eligible for probationary license. If it is a second conviction within five years, you can expect a three-year license suspension.  Eligible for reinstatement at the end of the 18-month period.
• License reinstatement fee. Reinstatement is possible after 18 months if you have completed DUI school, the clinical evaluation, and the treatment program.  As a condition of your license reinstatement, you must have an interlock ignition device installed in your vehicle for six months.
• DUI Alcohol or Drug Risk Reduction program and all associated costs
• Minimum of 30 days of community service
• Photograph in the newspaper with a $25 notice fee
• Possible imprisonment for up to 1 year
• Possible limited driving permit. You may apply for a limited permit, which is valid in Georgia only, and seek reinstatement of your driver’s license after 120 days if you have successfully completed DUI school and paid the $210 reinstatement.
• Surrender license plates