East Ellijay DUI Lawyer

When charged with DUI in East Ellijay, you have options! As a former North Georgia prosecutor, our founder, Richard Lawson, has the upper hand because he used to stand in the prosecution's very shoes. After founding his own DUI defense firm with over 5,000 clients represented, Richard knows how to achieve excellent results for his clients. He is proficient in negotiation with the State or winning trials, if that is what it takes to get the outcome you need. When you are arrested for DUI, take the best step by calling our office immediately for a free case evaluation.

East Ellijay DUI Defense

Being charged with driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious charge in Georgia. There's no room to laugh it off or wait for the problem to go away. Georgia penalties are harsh even for first-time offenders. The moment you're charged with DUI, it's already time to start fighting back to preserve your freedom.

It might be your first DUI offense, and it might be your first offense ever. You might even feel that you were guilty or that you don't stand a chance against the police officer's word. Unfortunately, thinking about your DUI case that way could lead to serious consequences that affect you for years. Speak with an East Ellijay DUI lawyer now for help getting your charges dropped or reduced. You've been put in a serious situation, but all you have to do to get legal help is call our firm. We have been exclusively handling DUI cases for over 25 years and know what it takes to achieve a favorable outcome in your case. We have built relationships with judges, prosecutors, and court staff that help us to work out the best agreements for our clients. Furthermore, we pride ourselves on knowing Georgia's DUI law inside and out. So instead of the law working against you, we know how to make it work for you!

East Ellijay DUI Penalties

Even if it's your first offense, the penalties for DUIs in Gilmer County are serious. For a first offense, if you choose not to fight back and get your charges reduced or dropped, you'll be facing a fine up to $1,000 plus court costs, and the additional conditions of your sentence will cost substantially more. A first DUI conviction could also result in jail time, probation, community service, alcohol and drug treatment, and more.

Because your charges are driving-related, a conviction can affect your license and vehicle. If you are charged with a DUI, a common punishment is to have your license suspended. That means you'll need to find alternate transportation, such as public transportation or family and friends. But there are ways to keep your license fully intact or at least get a hardship license so you can drive for business purposes. Many people are unaware that you must take action within 30 days of your arrest or your license will be automatically suspended! Our East Ellijay DUI Lawyers are intimately familiar with Georgia DUI laws and will help protect your license as well as defend you against the criminal punishments.

Georgia also has an ignition interlock requirement for certain DUI offenses. That means your vehicle may be fitted with a sobriety testing device. You'll need to blow into the device for your vehicle to start. This can be expensive and embarrassing.

Long Term DUI Consequences in Georgia

Unfortunately, the consequences for an intoxicated driving offense don't end after you've paid your fines and served any required time in jail. While a misdemeanor might not seem as serious as a felony, it can still haunt you throughout your life in Georgia.

For example, your insurance will likely be affected. You can expect an increase in your insurance premiums—even if you didn't cause an accident. That means more expenses over time, and that can add up to thousands over the years.

In addition, a DUI conviction can affect your family and housing situation. Many apartments, banks, and employers require background checks for applicants, and a DUI conviction could show up there. If you have children, a felony charge can affect whether you receive custody in a divorce.

Contact Us Today

Don't underestimate the effects of a drunk driving conviction. Fortunately, you can get help from a DUI attorney in East Ellijay to get those charges dropped or reduced and protect your future. Our lawyers at the Law Offices of Richard S. Lawson know how to build a solid defense to protect your future! Our attorneys are waiting to take your call. Call us now for a free case evaluation.