Ellijay Underage DUI Lawyer

Underage DUI Attorney in Ellijay

If you or your child has been caught driving under the influence, it is important to take action immediately and hire a lawyer. Georgia has strict laws regarding underage DUIs. They carry heavy penalties, but can also affect your teenager outside of the law, such as costing them scholarships and college acceptances. Sevcech Law has a skilled Ellijay underage DUI lawyer prepared to give you individualized representation to help safeguard your future.

What Are the Penalties for Underage DUI in Georgia?

Georgia has strict laws and penalties for underage DUIs in order to discourage young people from drinking and driving. Most drivers are able to drive with a blood alcohol concentration of up to 0.08% without fear of being arrested as long as their driving ability is not affected.

Underage drivers, however, have a much lower limit (0.02%). According to the Cleveland Clinic, a BAC of 0.02% can cause an altered mood, relaxation, and a slight loss of judgment, which may affect one’s driving and reaction time. An Ellijay DUI lawyer will fight for your best possible defense, but alternatively, can help mitigate the penalties if convicted of a DUI.

Here are the Georgia penalties for underage DUI convictions:

• First DUI conviction penalties:
  • Fines up to $1,000
  • 40 hours of community service
  • Minimum jail time of 24 hours (this jail time can be deemed satisfied on a case by case basis)
  • Drug and alcohol evaluation
  • License suspension up to a year
  • $210 fee to have your license reinstated
• Second DUI offense within five years of the first offense:
  • Minimum mandatory jail time of 72 hours
  • Fines up to $1,000
  • License suspension for three years (you may be eligible for a limited driving permit after a 120 day suspension)
  • 240 hours of community service
  • A drug and alcohol evaluation along with completion of a substance abuse treatment program
  • $210 license reinstatement fee
• Third DUI offense within five years of second offense:
  • Minimum of 15 days in jail
  • Up to $5,000 fine
  • Minimum of 240 hours of community service
  • Driver’s name, photo, and address published in the local paper at their expense
  • The driver is labeled as a habitual violator, and their license plate is sent to the court and the Department of Motor Vehicle Safety
  • Mandatory clinical evaluation and possible completion of a substance abuse treatment program at the driver’s expense.

If your case has been charged as a misdemeanor DUI, it may be heard in either Ellijay Municipal, East Ellijay Municipal or Gilmer County Probate Court. If your charges involve felony charges, or you are charged with a 4^th DUI in 10 years, your case will be heard in Gilmer County Superior Court. If you are 16 or younger, your case will be heard in juvenile court.

Living in a small community such as Ellijay the consequences of underage drunk driving can reach outside of the legal system. Being accused of driving under the influence under the age of 21 can have lasting effects on the driver’s reputation and can cost them opportunities, including future auto insurance coverage, college acceptances and scholarship opportunities.

Why Choose Us?

Carrying an underage DUI offense in Georgia may have far-reaching consequences. One will face legal penalties, but will also find challenges with auto insurance companies, such as denial of coverage or increased premiums. An underage DUI may affect future opportunities such as scholarships, college admissions, and international travel.

When your child’s future is at stake, working with a skilled attorney who understands Georgia’s DUI laws and the impact a conviction can have on a young person is crucial. Our team combines legal skill with a genuine concern for our clients’ futures. Our firm has earned a strong reputation in Gilmer County and throughout North Georgia for our integrity and commitment to results.

FAQs

How Much Does a Lawyer Cost for a DUI in Georgia?

Lawyer fees for a DUI in Georgia may vary depending on multiple factors, such as the complexity of your case, your attorney’s experience, and whether your case goes to trial or not. Most lawyers charge either a flat fee or an hourly rate. It is recommended to reach out directly to receive an accurate cost and fee schedule from your Ellijay underage DUI lawyer.

Is It Worth Hiring an Attorney for a DUI?

Yes, it is worth hiring an attorney for a DUI, especially if the driver is underage. Underage drivers have most of their lives ahead of them. Having a skilled attorney represent you may help challenge the validity of the traffic stop and the BAC results. This may help you avoid a charge or lessen your penalties. Having a lawyer on your side will help you move forward and not let this one mistake define you.

What Happens if You Get a DUI Under 21 in GA?

Georgia carries heavy penalties for underage drivers caught drunk driving. These penalties include jail time, fees, license suspension, and more. In the United States, car wrecks are the leading cause of death for teens. In Georgia, 6% of those fatal wrecks involve underage drunk drivers. Georgia puts such heavy penalties on this offense in order to help protect young people and safeguard their future.

Are You Able to Travel Internationally With a DUI?

International travel can be affected by a United States DUI conviction. Certain countries, such as Canada or Japan, can deny you entry into their country. Other countries may grant access but may not allow you to rent a car, scooter, or boat. It is always important to check entry laws and rental policies prior to planning a trip.

What Is a Good Defense Against Underage DUI Charges?

Having a highly skilled attorney on your side can help build a strong defense for your underage DUI case. Common defenses include challenging the traffic stop or challenging the DUI arrest due to a lack of probable cause, or questioning a breathalyzer or blood test due to defective equipment or calibration. These are just a few examples of the legal defenses your experienced Ellijay DUI attorney will explore on your behalf. If you believe that you have had your rights violated during a traffic stop, it is important to seek legal aid immediately in order to avoid a conviction and loss of license.

Hire an Underage DUI Lawyer

At Sevcech Law, we represent clients for underage DUI in Gilmer, Pickens, Fannin, Union, Dawson, and Lumpkin Counties. Our attorney, Sarah Sevcech, is a highly experienced attorney who has received accolades for her work. We are dedicated to helping clients move forward after a mistake and protecting their future opportunities.

Contact our office today. Our skilled attorney is prepared to discuss your case and fight for you and your child.