After an arrest for driving under the influence in Georgia, you can expect the court to throw the book at you hard. Even a first-time DUI conviction comes with possibly severe consequences, including:
- Jail time
- Loss of driving license
- Community services
- Mandatory ignition interlock device
You want to do all you can to minimize your circumstances after a DUI arrest. We recommend sitting down with a legal professional to start working on strategies to defend yourself from a conviction. Start your consultation by asking the following questions to ensure you obtain sufficient representation.
What is your experience with DUI cases?
The best way to ensure adequate representation is to engage a representative with experience, especially in your jurisdiction.
Experience gives legal practitioners inside knowledge of how the courts and judges in your region address charges like yours. They also know how to deal with courtroom staff and local prosecutors. This experience can prove valuable in helping you avoid potentially harsh consequences.
What do you know about field sobriety tests?
The field tests police officers rely on are not infallible. For example, a poorly calibrated and maintained breathalyzer can indicate intoxication falsely. Having legal counsel familiar with the many ways field sobriety tests fail can improve your circumstances considerably.
Often, calling the validity of field test results into question paves the way for a successful defense. Your counsel can also look into the conduct of the arresting officers for more potential defense strategies.
You have the right to vet a legal representative before you engage them for your DUI defense. Reputable counselors at law are always happy to answer questions from those they serve.
