Atlanta DUI Lawyer

There are two sides to the DUI process in Georgia: the administrative license suspension hearing (ALS hearing) and the criminal court process. Having a skilled Atlanta DUI defense lawyer at your side during all proceedings is in your best interests, as it will give you an advantage and help you reach a positive outcome for your case.

DUI Process in Atlanta

• Arrest: Law enforcement can make an arrest for DUI if they find probable cause that you were driving under the influence. This is usually established by how an individual was driving, how the driver performed on field sobriety tests and any outward signs of intoxication which the officer observed. After your arrest, you will be asked to take a breathalyzer test or blood test to determine your blood alcohol concentration.
• Arraignment: This is the first court appearance for a defendant facing DUI charges in Atlanta. The defendant will enter a plea of guilty, not guilty or no contest, and a bail amount will be set. The defendant may also be released on his/her own recognizance.
• Trial: If no plea agreement is reached prior to the trial, the criminal trial proceedings will begin. The general rule is that offenses punishable by 6 months or more in jail will be tried by a jury, but a defendant may request a trial without a jury (where a judge will oversee the proceedings and deliver a verdict).
• Appeal: After a DUI conviction, you may be able to file an appeal in order to prove that a trial error occurred and therefore possibly have a chance for a re-trial or lesser sentencing.
• Expungement: It may be possible to have an Atlanta DUI conviction expunged from your record depending upon the particular circumstances. A lawyer can advise you as to whether or not you qualify.

Atlanta Drunk Driving Defense Attorney

Your choice of a DUI attorney in Atlanta could make a considerable difference in the outcome of your case. At every single step of the entire DUI process, your attorney will need to fight to protect your rights and help you avoid the penalties associated with a conviction. Make no mistake that the experience, dedication and ability of your attorney will greatly affect the outcome of your case.

Contact Atlanta DUI attorney Judy Kim today to see how she can help you navigate through the Georgia DUI process!