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Winder, Georgia DUI Attorney



If you've been charged with a DUI, you need to call a Winder, Georgia DUI attorney. Brett Willis has been working since 2005 to help clients win their cases. He understands that getting any criminal charge — DUIs included — can be an incredibly stressful and traumatic experience for you and your loved ones. With Brett Willis Law, you can feel confident that your case is in good hands so you can finally get your life back. Contact us today for a free consultation. 

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What Is a DUI in Winder? 

Most people have heard of DUIs before, but what do they mean? A DUI is short for driving under the influence. It's something that you're charged with when an officer notices that you're driving is unsafe. They will pull you over, and if they suspect that you're on alcohol or drugs, they'll ask you to undergo a series of sobriety tests, including walking in a straight line or taking a breathalyzer test. After these tests, you may be charged with a DUI. They will take you to jail until you pay bail. At that point, you should be released right away because a first DUI counts as a misdemeanor. 

Why You Need a Winder, Georgia DUI Attorney

If you've been charged with a DUI in Winder, the first thing that you need to do is try and find a lawyer. A Winder, Georgia DUI attorney is your advocate in more ways than you may realize. Not only will they fight for you in court, but they can also perform many functions outside it, as well. 

For example, lawyers can send a letter to the Department of Driver Services (DDS) within 30 days. In some cases, they may be able to halt the suspension of your license. Another example is if the jail has not released you after paying bail. As mentioned, you can get out of jail immediately after paying bail for a first DUI, since it's a misdemeanor charge. If you've been there longer than you should, a lawyer can call the magistrate and demand your release. 

If you need a DUI attorney who can help you with all of these things and more, contact Brett Willis Law today. 

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Why Getting the Right Winder, Georgia DUI Attorney Matters

When you're comparing different lawyers, the consultation is one of the most important steps. You want a DUI attorney that gives you a sense of safety. You should know that when you hand your case over to them, you can say, “Here, you're driving now. You do what you do.” Here are some particular aspects to look for in a Winder, Georgia DUI attorney:

Personal Connection

Personal connection is an often underrated quality of DUI attorneys. When you talk to them on the phone, you should feel some personal connection with them. This lets you know that they understand your situation and can meet you where you're at. 

Trustworthiness

You should look for someone that you trust. You should look for someone with the credentials and experience to represent you. They should be someone you feel knows the ins and outs of DUI law and Department of Driver Services (DDS) rules and regulations. 

Experienced with Jury Trials

You also need someone who can talk to a jury for you. Not all cases will be tried before a jury, but it can happen. Not all lawyers who say they're trial lawyers actually are. The lawyer that you seek out must have actual proven experience talking in front of a jury, so you're confident they can advocate for you in front of members of your community. 

Punishments for a First DUI

If you get a DUI in Winder, the costs are tremendous. First you have the immediate costs that come from conviction, including:

  • Mandatory DUI school 
  • 40 hours of community service
  • Losing your license for at least 120 days
  • $1,000+ fines 

You'll also have a permanent DUI conviction on your record, which can lead to other consequences. You may have a more difficult time getting into schools, since some schools have strict policies about admitting students with criminal histories. Some employers may not hire you because of a DUI, especially if you have to drive for work. Also, insurance companies will greatly increase your premiums following a DUI conviction. 

The best way to avoid these outcomes is to contact a Winder, Georgia DUI attorney like Brett Willis for a free consultation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Breath Tests Always Accurate?

 No, breath tests are not always accurate. Like any test, there is a margin of error. Breath tests particularly can be inaccurate through a number of factors, including:

  • Drugs: Some drugs affect how your body absorbs alcohol. 
  • Medical issues: Certain medical issues have been known to lead to inaccurate breathalyzer results, including acid reflux (GERD). 
  • Mouthwash: Mouthwash contains alcohol, so it can sometimes lead to a false positive if you use it shortly before driving. 
  • Defective breathalyzer machine: Not all breathalyzer machines function perfectly. Manufacturer defects may lead to false positives. 
  • Improper administration: Sometimes, the officer can administer the breathalyzer test improperly, causing incorrect results. 

Will a DUI Show Up on a Criminal Background Check?

Yes. When an employer does a criminal background check, they will see your DUI charge. DUI charges follow you for life. They cannot be expunged, and you can't have your records restricted for them. 

What Is the Punishment for Multiple DUI Offenses?

For every DUI you're convicted of in a period of 10 years, the punishments increase. For example, you'll have to go to jail for at least 15 days when you're convicted of a third DUI. The punishments for a fourth or subsequent DUI are the most severe, since they count as a felony charge. You may have to pay fines up to $5,000 and serve a probation sentence for five years. 

What Does a DUI School Entail?

A DUI school is a mandatory risk reduction program for those convicted of a DUI. As the name suggests, a DUI school takes place in a classroom setting. You'll learn about the risks of alcohol and drugs as they pertain to driving, and earn a certificate when you've completed the program. The program usually lasts about 20 hours total and is conducted in-person. 

This is your life. Let us fight for it.

If you are facing criminal charges, you are in the right place. Give us a call at 770.249.4405, or send us a message.

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