I Got Pulled Over For a DUI in Atlanta
I Was Pulled Over for a DUI in Atlanta
Recently, I was pulled over for driving under the influence in Atlanta, Georgia. Being stopped by police for DUI is one of Georgia’s most common criminal offenses and can result in jail time, fines, or even the suspension of your driver’s license.
After being pulled over for a DUI in Atlanta, it is essential to remain calm and respectful of the officer conducting the investigation. Furthermore, remember that you have the right to decline any field sobriety tests or evaluations without fear of legal repercussions; this includes failing a Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, One Leg Stand tests, as well as Walk and Turn evaluations.
Additionally, you should seek legal counsel from an Atlanta DUI attorney as soon as possible. A knowledgeable attorney can help you comprehend the charges against you and protect your rights under Georgia’s drinking and driving laws.
Once you get pulled over for a DUI in Atlanta, your case will likely be transferred to municipal court for handling. This is important because it gives your attorney the chance to negotiate with the prosecutor on your behalf. Though these courts lack authority to hold jury trials, they have the capacity to reduce or dismiss your charges with plea agreements before going before state court for trial.
At your arraignment, you will be informed of the charges against you and asked to plead guilty or not guilty. Generally, it’s best to remain innocent until your attorney advises otherwise; otherwise, pleading guilty can bypass all other steps in the criminal process and lead directly into sentencing which could carry more severe consequences than those offered through plea bargaining agreements.
After being arrested for drunk driving, police will likely request that you submit to a chemical test for alcohol or drugs. This can usually be done via blood, breath or urine test. Once approved, the Department of Driver Services will administratively suspend your driver’s license.
If you fail any of the tests or your breath or blood alcohol level exceeds the legal limit, then you will be arrested for DUI. This is a serious charge and it’s recommended that you seek legal counsel from an experienced Atlanta DUI lawyer as soon as possible.
You may be asked to sign a form in order to consent to testing. This legal document, known as an “Express Consent Affidavit,” must then be submitted to the State Department of Driver Services for processing and your results will then be available for review by the judge in your case.
If you fail the test or refuse to take it, your license will be suspended for at least a year and all driving privileges can be lost – an unsettling blow that could potentially ruin your life.
