Can You Get Arrested For Your First DUI?

Can You Get Arrested For Your First DUI?

hands and keys with alcohol drinks in background signifying drunk driving

The State of Georgia

When you get that ‘one’ phone call allowed by someone arrested for DUI, bail bond help is usually the reason they’re calling. States all across this country are getting more diligent every year on DUIs, including here in Georgia. 

Each state has different descriptions and limitations of what is considered a DUI. Here in Georgia, what is a DUI charge? There are two examples of how a driver in this state could find themselves arrested and needs to post a DUI bail bond. The two situations that can lead to this moment are:

  • DUI:  A person can be found violating the Georgia DUI law if it is proven they have been consuming alcohol, drugs, or a combination, and driving in an unsafe manner. The law enforcement officer will perform field sobriety tests and if the driver fails, they will be arrested, and taken to a hospital for a blood draw. The BAC (blood alcohol content) will be checked and in Georgia, a BAC of less than 0.08 can get a driver arrested. 
  • DUI “Per Se”: The same scenario can cause an officer to pull a vehicle over, perform field sobriety tests, arrest, and a blood draw at a hospital. The difference is if the BAC comes back with a BAC of 0.08% or higher.

What happens when you get pulled over for DUI for the first time?

The DUI laws are complicated, different from state to state, and constantly changing. It is those changes that can affect the outcome of the first-time DUI or subsequent DUI arrest. Hiring an experienced DUI defense attorney is the best way to get the best outcome. 

After the arrest and posting the DUI bail bond to get released, upon court date, the potential outcome can be any or all of the following: 

  • 1 year of probation
  • A $300 minimum fine, court costs, and surcharges
  • One to ten days in jail
  • Community service for a minimum of 40 hours
  • Alcohol or drug abuse counseling
  • Attendance of DUI School, Madd Mothers Victim Impact Panel
  • Suspended Driver’s License

Will I get arrested after my first DUI, how likely is it that you get arrested for your first DUI?

Yes, a person that is pulled over for suspicion of DUI will be arrested in the state of Georgia if they fail the field sobriety tests conducted by the attending law enforcement officer.  If they pass the testing, the officer still has the option of arresting the person and taking them to a hospital for BAC testing.  Even with a BAC of less than .08%, the person could still be arrested, required to post a DUI bail bond, and appear before the courts. 

handcuffs, keys with alcohol drinks in background signifying DUI

What are the consequences of your first DUI?

The state of Georgia doesn’t take DUI possibilities lightly. The courts can impose the following criminal penalties for a first DUI arrest that include.:

  • Fines
  • Jail time
  • Public service
  • Suspension driver’s license

There are personal consequences that any person released on DUI bail can expect that include: 

  • Loss of employment
  • Financial strain
  • Loss of family and friends
  • Loss of community reputation

How likely is jail time for your first DUI?

If a driver fails the sobriety tests administered by the law enforcement officer and has a BAC under.08%, the DUI laws in Georgia will lead to arrests. For persons under the age of 21 years, there is a zero-tolerance law. A person under 21 years of age with a BAC of 0.02% and up will be arrested, their Driver’s License Revoked, six months minimum jail time, and court fines and fees. 

Will you lose your license for your first DUI?

In the state of Georgia, a first DUI conviction, the driver will have their driver’s license confiscated by the court. It is then surrendered to the Department of Driver Services office. 

Can DUI charges be dropped for your first offense?

The new laws in place in 2022 in Georgia are stricter. A first-time DUI arrest with a DUI bail bond posted has a good chance of their DUI charges being dropped. A repeat DUI offender with a 2nd DUI arrest could have their charges dropped, most likely changed to reckless driving. 

Can your first DUI be dismissed?

For anyone with a DUI arrest, first, second, or subsequent DUI charges, it is best to have an experienced attorney to represent the defendant. With an experienced DUI defense attorney handling the arrest after posting your DUI bail bond, it is possible to have a first-time DUI charge dropped. 

In Conclusion

The best way to prevent a DUI arrest and DUI bail bond need is to not drink and drive. A person that chooses to drink should find a ride home, either from a family member, a friend, or call a service like a taxi, Uber, or other type services. 

Double "O" Bonding helps with a DUI bail bondin Jefferson, GA. Call 706-353-6467 to get started.