Atlanta Felony DUI Attorney
When Is a DUI a Felony in Georgia?
Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is a criminal offense that can be prosecuted in many different ways. While standard first-time DUIs are typically misdemeanor offenses, they can be prosecuted as felonies when aggravating circumstances are involved. When felony charges do arise, they subject convicted offenders to harsher penalties and to consequences that can create enduring limitations, repercussions, and barriers.
You may face felony DUI charges for:
- A fourth DUI
- DUI causing injury
- DUI causing death
- Having a prior felony DUI
When these aggravating circumstances are involved, a DUI charge can be elevated to a felony crime. As a felony, these charges pose the most serious penalties, as well as mandatory terms of imprisonment.
If you are facing felony charges for DUI, contact us or call (404) 907-1536 to start discussing your defense with our experienced Atlanta felony DUI lawyer.
Multiple Offense DUIs in Atlanta
In Georgia, a driver can be charged with a felony DUI when they are convicted of a fourth or subsequent DUI offense within 10 years of a previous DUI conviction. This fourth-time felony DUI law was passed in 2008 in response to statewide efforts to intensify penalties for habitual offenders. Additionally, individuals convicted of a DUI with child endangerment at any point in their lifetime will also face felony allegations if they are charged with DUI child endangerment a third time. Anyone who has been convicted of any type of felony DUI will also face felony allegations for new DUI charges.
DUI Causing Serious Injury
DUIs resulting in accidents that seriously injure others can also subject alleged offenders to felony charges. As causing harm to others is considered a reckless, egregious act of carelessness, Georgia laws have made the point to prosecute offenders with heightened charges and penalties.
DUI Causing Death
DUIs causing death are the most serious driving under the influence charges one can face. Known as DUI manslaughter, this felony offense will be prosecuted when a driver causes death while driving their vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. DUI manslaughter is punishable by prison terms between 3 and 15 years.
If you or someone that you care about is facing a felony DUI allegation, please be aware that there is a great deal riding on your case. In addition to hefty fines and potentially lengthy terms of imprisonment, felony convictions are also viewed distastefully by society at large, including potential employers, landlords, and others who conduct background checks.
By understanding the penalties at stake in your case, you should feel the necessary urgency to work with a proven Atlanta felony DUI attorney who has the experience, the resources, and the capability to fight effectively on your behalf. To learn more about felony DUI charges and how the Law Offices of Howard J. Weintraub can help, bring your case to the attention of a seasoned Atlanta felony DUI lawyer today.
The Punishments for a Felony DUI Conviction
According to §40-6-391 of the 2010 Georgia Code, it is considered a felony offense to be convicted for a fourth DUI if you have three prior DUI convictions on your record within the past 10 years. Should this occur, the penalties that are associated with the offense will be elevated in severity.
According to the law, a fourth DUI conviction carries with it penalties that include the following:
- Monetary fine between $1000 and $5000;
- Imprisonment between one and five years;
- Minimum of sixty days of community service;
- Mandatory completion of Risk Reduction Program;
- Probation period of five years less days of imprisonment; and
- Clinical evaluation and possible substance abuse treatment program
Felony DUI charges that involve accidents where a victim was injured or killed will also increase penalties. For example, homicide by vehicle is punishable by up to 15 years in prison. If you are being charged with a felony DUI, working with an experienced attorney should be your first priority. Contact our firm today and work with our Atlanta felony DUI attorneys!
Understanding the DUI Legal Process in Georgia
Navigating the legal system after a DUI charge can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. At Weintraub & Alper Legal, we believe that knowledge is power. Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the DUI legal process, ensuring you understand your rights and options.
Here’s what you can expect when facing DUI charges:
- Initial Consultation: We will discuss the details of your case, answer your questions, and outline potential strategies.
- Investigation: Our team will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest, gathering evidence to build a strong defense.
- Plea Bargaining: If appropriate, we will negotiate with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or penalties.
- Trial Preparation: Should your case go to trial, we will prepare a robust defense to protect your rights and interests.
- Post-Conviction Support: If a conviction occurs, we can assist with appeals or alternative sentencing options.
Understanding each phase of the process can help reduce anxiety and empower you to make informed decisions. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards securing your future.
Our Atlanta Felony DUI Lawyer Can Help
At Weintraub & Alper Legal, our legal team understands that felony DUI charges can put our clients' freedoms and futures at stake. This is why we draw from more than 40 years of combined experience and fight tirelessly to have charges dismissed or reduced as much as possible. If you would like more information about your case and how our firm can help, we urge you to contact our Atlanta felony DUI lawyer as soon as possible.
Facing felony DUI charges? Schedule your consultation with our firm today and secure the aggressive legal representation you deserve! Call (404) 907-1536 to speak with an experienced Atlanta felony DUI lawyer.
We Have the Desire to Fight
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Howard J. Weintraub and Benjamin B. Alper have a 10.0 Superb Rating by Avvo
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Howard J. Weintraub Has Received Commendations From the FBI, IRS, & U.S. Attorney General
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Our Firm Has Over 55 Years of Combined Legal Experience
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Howard J. Weintraub is an Experienced Former Federal Prosecutor