If you’ve been accused of DWI, DUI or BUI you could be facing hefty fines and even prison time. You need an experienced lawyer to navigate the confusing world of Georgia DUI law and J Thomas Salata can help.
In every state it is illegal to drive a vehicle or watercraft while under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs and/or certain prescriptions. Charges are typically called “DUI” (Driving Under the Influence) but are also known as “DWI” (Driving While Intoxicated) or “BUI” (Boating Under the Influence.)
Driving while impaired is always illegal but states have different laws on file determining what constitutes as impairment. In the state of Georgia impairment means having a BAC at or over 0.10% but individual officers have the discretion to determine impairment without a blood test. If your ability to operate your vehicle safely, responsibly and effectively is deemed impaired you may be charged with a DUI.
So What Determines a DUI?
If you are operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% of higher you are considered DUI or DWI. If you are under the legal drinking age of 21, you will be considered to be DUI or DWI with blood alcohol content greater than .01% or .02% depending on the area and you may face charges in addition to DWI or DUI.
How Can I Be Tested?
The authorities in Georgia use three different methods to determine whether or not a driver is operating a motor vehicle under the influence:
- Observing Erratic Driving
- Field Sobriety Tests
- Chemical Blood Alcohol Level Tests
Why Should You Hire an Alpharetta DUI/DWI Lawyer?
The state of Georgia makes it extremely difficult to fight a drunken driving charge without a lawyer. Hiring a DWI lawyer like J Thomas Salata may help minimize the penalties and long-term consequences of your DUI charge. Having a legal representative who knows the current drunk driving laws and has the resources to skillfully challenge data and medical experts is always beneficial for your case.
What Are the Consequences for Drunken Driving?
Depending on the severity of your charge you may be facing fines, time in jail, and/or license suspension, restriction or revocation. Other consequences can include probation and the mandatory completion of a drunk-driving course. In extreme cases you may even be required to install an ignition-interlock device. Having a professional DUI attorney can help minimize the consequences and effects of your DUI charge here in Georgia.
Contact The Law Office of J Thomas Salata immediately if you’ve been charged with a DWI or DUI in Alpharetta or anywhere in Georgia. We’ll get started on your case right away so you can resolve your legal issues and move on with your life.
Consult with Alpharetta DUI defense attorney, J Thomas Salata, immediately upon being charged with DUI/DWI for expert representation on your drunken driving charge.
