Reader’s Question:

I live in Atlanta, Georgia and have been detained for my first offense for DUI ever. What will happen to me and what would be the possible penalties that I will be facing?

Fiona

Atlanta, GA

Since this is your first offense for DUI ever, the probable punishments consist of a fine or jail time of anywhere from ten days to one year. You would spend the first night in jail unless your blood alcohol content (BAC) was less than .08 percent.

If you plead guilty or if you get convicted for your DUI charge in Atlanta, Georgia, it is compulsory that you receive at least 12 months of probation (less any jail time served). In addition, you must also complete at least 40 hours of community service (if you are under the age of 21, it is at least 20 hours).

Your license would be suspended for at least one year if you are over the age of 21. It may be necessary to complete a course at DUI School. There is also a fee to have your license reinstated. Partial driving privileges are also possible for you to go to work and school. Your license would be suspended for no less than six months if you are under the age of 21 and have less than .08 percent BAC. You will have least one year suspension if your BAC is over .08 percent. But, the police officer may be able to prove that you were driving unsafely at .05 percent BAC that’s why it is always best to never drink and drive.

Tags: drunk driving laws, DUI, DUI advice