If you've been charged with a DUI, now is the time to call Barrow County, Georgia DUI attorney. DUI convictions come with many life-changing consequences, and the best way to avoid these is to have expert advocates on your side who will fight for your rights every step of the way. At Brett Willis Law, we're here to help. We specialize in DUI law and have helped countless clients since 2005. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
What Is a DUI in Barrow County?
A DUI stands for “driving under the influence.” Officers will charge you with this if they pull you over for reckless driving behaviors and notice that you seem to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Most DUIs are considered misdemeanors, but they are taken very seriously in the state of Georgia. You'll have your license suspended immediately, you'll lose your commercial driver's license (CDL) if you have one, you'll have a mandatory minimum of 24 hours in prison and more. On top of it all, DUI offenders are not covered under the Georgia First Offender Act, so you'll be stuck with a permanent criminal record that cannot be forgiven, expunged, or restricted.
How to Navigate a DUI Charge
If you get charged with a DUI in Barrow County, the very first thing that you want to do is just take a breath. You've likely been through a really awful experience, especially if you've never been to jail before. Few people can understand what that experience is like until they go through it themselves, and now you're one of those folks. Take a breath and give yourself a break for a little bit.
Secondarily, get your citations ready and reach out to a Barrow County DUI defense lawyer. The lawyer is going to ask you many questions to evaluate what issues you're facing and the defensible points that will build a strong trial case. Even if the case doesn't go to trial, having a lawyer like Brett Willis on your side to argue on your behalf will ensure you get the best deal possible.
What Happens if You Don't Get a Barrow County, Georgia DUI Attorney?
If you don't get a Barrow County DUI lawyer for your Barrow County DUI charge, you may miss out on having someone who has experience with the relevant parties and players that you might need to defend you from your DUI charge. They also have expert legal knowledge, so they can pick out specific things in your case they could use to help you win or even get the case dismissed.
What You Should Look for In a Barrow County, Georgia DUI Attorney
The best Barrow County DUI lawyers are people who specialize in DUI defense. They are people who have put in the effort and the time to become the very best DUI lawyers in their particular region. It takes time, effort, and above all, dedication. You want somebody who has these qualities and is willing to put them to work for your sake.
Brett Willis specializes in DUI defense and has dedicated himself to helping clients charged with DUIs. If you've been charged with a DUI, don't hesitate to contact a Barrow County, Georgia DUI attorney today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a DUI Conviction in Georgia Impact My Ability to Travel Internationally?
Laws on criminal convictions vary from country to country, but yes, a DUI conviction may affect your ability to travel internationally. This is particularly the case if you're convicted of a DUI involving drug use since some countries have very strict drug laws. Be sure to check the most recent laws on criminal records in the country you wish to travel to.
Can I Be Charged With a DUI if I'm Using a Prescription Medication as Prescribed in Georgia?
Yes, you can be charged with a DUI if you're using prescription medications. This is only the case if the medication makes driving less safe. For example, painkillers and sleeping pills can cause drowsiness and inhibit judgment. If you're currently on any prescription drugs, make sure to check the side effects and see if there are any warnings against driving. When in doubt, ask your doctor if the medication they put you on is safe to drive with.
Can I Lose My Job if I'm Convicted of a DUI in Georgia?
Yes, a DUI could cause you to lose your job. This is particularly true if your job involves driving, like being a delivery driver. You will lose your commercial driver's license (CDL) for at least a year upon getting a DUI conviction, making it impossible to perform your duties. Even if your job doesn't require a CDL, companies may consider your DUI an indication that you are a liability and fire you as a result.
Can I Get a DUI if I'm Driving a Golf Cart or Off-Road Vehicle in Georgia?
Yes, you can get a DUI for driving a golf cart or off-road vehicle. DUIs apply to all motorized vehicles in the state of Georgia.
Will I Have to Install an Ignition Interlock Device if I'm Convicted of a DUI in Georgia?
An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer test installed in your car which prevents the ignition from working until you're below the specified blood alcohol content (BAC) limit. If you're a first-time DUI offender, ignition interlock devices are usually not necessary. They are typically a solution for repeat offenders — if they install the device in their car, they may be able to get a limited driving permit even though their license is suspended.
Can I Be Charged With a DUI if I'm on Private Property?
Yes, it is possible to get charged with a DUI on private property if an officer is around. DUI charges on private property are less common but not impossible. Someone nearby could call the police on you if they notice you're exhibiting dangerous driving behaviors that are a danger to yourself, people, or property.