What Are The Penalties for Multiple DUIs in GA?

Any DUI arrest in Georgia must be taken seriously, especially if you already have one or a couple of prior DUI convictions. Georgia doesn’t hold back when imposing harsh penalties on a first-offense DUI. So, when you have multiple DUIs, regardless of whether it’s your second or fourth DUI conviction, you can expect to face harsher penalties.

Discussing your case with a GA DUI defense attorney with experience handling DUI charges in your area is essential if you’re facing multiple DUI charges. At Banks, Stubbs & McFarland, we regularly represent clients who have been charged with various types of DUI offenses. A previous DUI conviction doesn’t necessarily mean that you should be convicted of a subsequent DUI offense. You still have legal rights, and our GA DUI defense attorney will ensure that your rights are protected.

Multiple DUIs in GA Carry More Severe Penalties

When judges determine the minimum penalties to impose on people with multiple DUIs, they must consider the time between past DUI convictions. This is known as the look-back period. It starts from the date of your prior DUI arrest and conviction to the date of your most recent DUI conviction. In GA, the look-back period is 10 years. This means that if you are convicted of DUI within a period of 10 years, the law considers you a subsequent or repeat offender.

You can face three days to a year in jail for a second DUI offense. If it is your third DUI offense, you can face 15 days to a year in jail, and one to five years in jail if it’s your fourth DUI offense. The fines you’ll need to pay will also increase. You face a fine of up to $1,000 for a second offense or up to $5,000 for a third or subsequent DUI offense.

You Face Longer License Suspension for Multiple DUIs in GA

The license suspension penalty can be extremely challenging for many DUI offenders because it can significantly impact their jobs and personal life. You can lose your license for three years for a second DUI offense or five years for a third DUI offense. Take note that you face a lifetime license suspension for a fourth DUI offense.

You Can Face Felony Charges for Multiple DUIs in GA

DUI offenses are typically classified as misdemeanors. However, a DUI offense can be bumped up to a felony if you:

  • Ran from the police
  • If you are convicted of a 4th DUI within a 10 year period
  • Injured or killed a person or a fetus

Reach Out to a Skilled GA DUI Defense Attorney Today

Whether it’s your first DUI offense or you have multiple DUI convictions, the GA DUI defense attorney at Banks, Stubbs & McFarland can assess your circumstances to explore the best possible options available for your case. To learn how our GA DUI defense attorney can help, please send us a message online or call 770-887-1209 and arrange your case evaluation.