The state of Georgia has severe penalties if you are convicted of a DUI, which stands for driving under the influence. In fact, Georgia is considered to be one of the harshest states for people arrested for a DUI.

In Georgia, it is against the law to have a blood-alcohol over 0.08 percent if you are over 21 years of age. If you are under the age of 21, your license will be revoked if any trace of alcohol is found on your breath.

Penalties for 1st time DUI offense in the state of Georgia include:

  • 24 hours to 12 months in jail
  • $600 to $1,000 fine
  • At least 40 hours of community service
  • DUI school or alcohol evaluation might be ordered
  • Driver’s license suspended for a year

Penalties for 2nd time DUI offense within 10 years in Georgia include:

  • 72 hours to 12 months in jail
  • $600 to $1000 fine
  • At least 30 days of community service
  • Mandatory DUI school and alcohol evaluation
  • Driver’s license suspended for 3 years
  • Ignition interlock device is required on each vehicle owned by the convicted driver, which will stay on the vehicle for at least 6 months

Penalties for the 3rd time DUI offense within 10 years in Georgia include:

  • At least 15 days mandatory jail time and up to 12 months
  • $1000 to $5000 fine
  • At least 30 days of community service
  • License revoked for 5 years
  • DUI School, clinical evaluation and 17 weeks of treatment mandatory before license can be reinstated
  • Ignition interlock device required

Penalties for 4th or more DUI offense within 10 years in Georgia include:

  • At least 90 days mandatory jail time and up to 5 years
  • $1,000 to $5,000 fine
  • At least 60 days of community service
  • License suspended for 5 years

If a child under the age of 14 is in the vehicle, you can be charged endangerment to a child, in which the penalties will be even more severe. In addition, a DUI conviction will stay on your record permanently. This can really hurt you when you apply for a job, which can jeopardize your future.

Getting arrested in Georgia for driving under the influence is very serious. If you are convicted of driving under the influence in Georgia, it is wise to get an experienced DUI lawyer. A qualified attorney can help you know your rights during this traumatic experience.

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