Atlanta DUI Second Offense

Atlanta takes driving under the influence (DUI) very seriously. Because of this, habitual offenders are subject to increased fines, jail time, community service, and suspension of driving privileges. If this is your second Atlanta DUI offense within five years, you should retain the services of an experienced DUI defense attorney in order to reduce or avoid the potential penalties you may face.

For a second DUI offense in Atlanta, the judge may sentence you to 90 days to 12 months in jail, though all except three days may be stayed, suspended or probated. This means that you do not have to serve the suspended or probated time unless you violate your probation or commit another crime. You must also serve 12 months of probation minus any jail time. You may be ordered to pay fines ranging from $600 to $1,000, plus 15 to 25% in statutory surcharges.

You may also be required to perform a minimum of 30 days of community service, though the actual amount is set by the court. Community service may consist of picking up litter from the side of the road or assisting anti-DUI groups.

For a second DUI conviction within five years, your license could be suspended for three years. You will face a 12-month hard suspension, which means that you are not eligible for a limited driving permit. However, your license may be reinstated after 18 months, though you will be required to have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicles, at your expense.

After a second conviction, all of your vehicles’ license plates will be confiscated, and you will be unable to receive a new plate until you get a limited permit or your driving privileges are reinstated. In some cases, a license plate may be given to the co-owner of the vehicle if hardship can be proven.

In an effort to deter repeat offenses, second offenders are required to have their name, address, and photo published in their local newspaper. The offender is charged $25 for the notice.

The Kohn DUI Defense Firm can help with your second offense case. We will carefully investigate your case to determine if there is a reason your charge can be reduced or even dismissed. For more information, please fill out our convenient online form today.