Motorists get arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) violations at all times of the day. Some of them fail chemical tests. Others cause crashes. Dozens of drivers may get arrested within a few hours when local authorities conduct sobriety checkpoints.
Any of these situations can lead to DUI charges that may have life-altering consequences for the accused driver. Not everyone who gets arrested or fails a chemical test was actually drunk behind the wheel. Still, those facing DUI charges often want to avoid the worst penalties and minimize the expense involved.
They may seek to take control of the situation by pleading guilty. They view it as a fast and effective solution to their pending charges. What those who plead guilty fail to understand is that they have to deal with the consequences of a conviction. Even a first-time DUI offense for someone with no criminal record can cause life-altering consequences.
What are the penalties possible?
Georgia state law authorizes the courts to impose a variety of different penalties after a DUI conviction. The penalty people worry about the most is often incarceration. A basic DUI charge without injury to others or other aggravating factors can lead to up to a year in state custody. The courts typically impose a minimum of 40 hours of mandatory community service.
There are also major financial consequences for a DUI conviction. The courts can impose up to $1,000 in fines. The driver also has to cover court costs. Beyond that, they may face licensing costs and increased insurance rates because of their conviction. They may also have to cope with the temporary loss of their driving privileges for up to a year and the costs that generates.
Finally, the criminal record that results can have a major influence on a driver’s life opportunities. Parties ranging from employers and educational institutions to landlords may perform criminal background checks before doing business with an individual or extending them an opportunity. Those with DUI convictions on their record may miss out on promotions and financial aid because of their criminal history.
Fighting a DUI charge can potentially protect a defendant from the penalties the courts might impose. They can also possibly avoid a criminal record that could limit their income and other opportunities for the rest of their life. Realizing that a DUI can result in very serious consequences may motivate accused drivers to respond proactively to pending charges instead of just pleading guilty.