Reducing an Atlanta DUI to Reckless Driving

Being convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in Atlanta can affect your life in several ways. You may lose your driving privileges. Both your driving and criminal record will show your DUI charge. Your insurance premiums may go through the roof, or your insurance provider may decide to cancel your coverage. However, if you have the right DUI lawyer handling your case, many of these consequences may be avoided.

In some cases, reducing your DUI to the lesser charge of reckless driving charge is possible. The penalties for a reckless driving charge are not as severe, and you will be spared the embarrassment of a drunk-driving conviction. To have your charges reduced, your defense attorney may have to negotiate with the prosecutor in order to obtain a plea deal.

If this is your first DUI charge, your defense lawyer may use that to your advantage when dealing with the prosecution. Your attorney will also look for holes in the prosecution’s case that can be used to your advantage. For example, was there probable cause for the initial traffic stop? Were the field sobriety tests administered properly? Was the breathalyzer properly maintained and calibrated? If the answer to any of these questions is “no,” your attorney may be able to challenge the evidence against you.

If your case is stronger than the prosecution’s case, the prosecutor will be more likely to enter into a plea bargain, which may reduce your DUI charge to a lesser, non-DUI offense. The prosecution may request penalties such as mandatory attendance at DUI School, alcohol treatment, and community service. However, these penalties are better than having a DUI conviction on your record.

Having a DUI on your record can seriously affect your life. Applying for a job may become more difficult if a potential employer requires a clean background check. If your current employment requires driving, you may be terminated if your driver’s license is suspended because of a drunk-driving conviction. By having your DUI charges dismissed or reduced, you may avoid these potential problems.

To learn more about reducing your DUI charge to reckless driving, contact The Kohn DUI Defense Firm today.