Paulding County Felony DUI Charges

Legal Guidance from a Criminal Attorney in Paulding County

As former prosecutors, our criminal defense lawyers at Henrickson & Sereeburtra have insight into both sides of the law. We understand how prosecutors build their cases and how to anticipate their moves. An important part of DUI defense is challenging DUI evidence at each opportunity in the case. There is no doubt the quality of your defense lawyer could be extremely important with regard to the outcome of your case.

Our firm's extensive history serving on "the other side" allows us to have an exceptional understanding of the process, how to operate within the system for our clients, and how to present a compelling case at trial. Our legal team does not take on felony DUI charges lightly – we know how difficult life could be for a convicted client.

How Can a DUI Become a Felony Offense?

A driver with a blood alcohol content (BAC) measure of 0.08 % or higher is legally too impaired to operate a motor vehicle safely, under Georgia state law. The legally allowed BAC limit is lower for drivers under 21 and commercial drivers. A person with blood alcohol content over the legal limit will face arrest and DUI charges. All DUI allegations are serious and there are consequences if the driver is found guilty. A DUI is either a misdemeanor or felony offense.

A first time offender with a clean record may receive a light sentence or reduction, but will still be required to pay fines, face a period of license suspension, and other hidden costs, including higher insurance rates. For drivers with up to three DUI offenses the penalties increase, but the crime is still in the misdemeanor category. The fourth DUI within 10 years becomes an automatic felony per Georgia House Bill 336. Anyone accused of a DUI needs to seek legal advice and guidance from an experienced Paulding County DUI attorney.

Other Felony DUI Situations

There are circumstances other than the fourth DUI charge, that can qualify for a felony DUI. A drunk driver might face a felony DUI if the following happened in conjunction with the DUI incident:

• Caused an accident that resulted in personal injury or wrongful death
• Committed additional crimes or extensive property damage
• Transported a minor child

A felony conviction carries harsher penalties than a misdemeanor. It can mean a fine ranging from $1,000-$5,000, 1 to 5 years imprisonment, 60 days of community service, and probation. The court can order the offender to complete a drug and alcohol abuse program/treatment. The driver may lose driving privileges through license suspension or revocation. Additionally, the driver may be required to have an ignition interlock device installed for a driver's license reinstatement.

You May Benefit from Our Dedicated DUI Defense

A felony conviction on any charge will impact your life forever. You will be restricted from certain types of professional licenses, and could have trouble in many other normal life activities, including getting a mortgage or other loan, qualifying for job and other important issues. It could not be more important to obtain legal representation from a law firm that will take your case in hand and do everything possible to help you to fight back.

The legal team at our firm is professional, dedicated and accomplished in criminal law. Should you need a DUI lawyer that truly knows trial law and how to craft a case that can win in court, contact our Paulding County firm for immediate assistance. We care about each client, his or her case, and we fight for any possible advantage at every step of the criminal justice process.

A felony DUI is a serious matter. You should contact Henrickson & Sereebutra today for help with your DUI case!