Georgia DUI Second Offense

Georgia law enforcement agencies and courts take driving under the influence (DUI) seriously. While the penalties for a first offense are tough, the punishment for a second conviction within five years is even more severe. A DUI second offense could result in jail time, probation, license suspension, and even increased insurance rates. If you are facing a second offense charge, speaking with an experienced Georgia DUI attorney is crucial.

The fines for a second offense can range from $600 to $1,000 in addition to statutory surcharges, which are typically 15-25%. The minimum time for community service is 30 days, or 240 hours.

The jail time for a second offense conviction is 90 days to 12 months, though all but 72 hours may be suspended or probated. You may also face 12 months of probation. If you commit any additional crimes during probation, or violate the conditions of your probation agreement, you may be ordered to serve out your suspended sentence in jail.

If you are convicted of a second offense, your driver’s license may be suspended for three years, and you will be ineligible for reinstatement for 18 months. The first 12 months are a hard license suspension, which means you cannot obtain a limited driving permit that would allow you to drive to work or school. After your license is reinstated, you will be required to have an ignition interlock device in your vehicle for six months.

During a driver’s license suspension, a second-time offender is required to surrender the license plates of all vehicles registered in his or her name. New plates will be issued only after the offender receives a limited permit or has his or her driving privileges reinstated. In some cases, a hardship license plate may be available to a family member who co-owns the vehicle.

A second-time offender may also have his or her name, photograph and address as well as the time, date, and location of arrest published in the local newspaper. The offender is responsible for the $25 notice fee.

The Willis Law Office can help if you are facing a DUI second offense. Our experienced defense attorneys will aggressively fight your case in an effort to have your charges reduced or even dismissed. Contact our law office today for a free DUI case evaluation.