Putnam County DUI Lawyer | Top-Rated Putnam County DUI Attorneys at George C. Creal, Jr., P.C.
Welcome to the DUI Defense in Putnam County Information Page
If you're searching for a trusted Putnam County DUI lawyer or Putnam County DUI attorney in Eatonton, Georgia look no further than George C. Creal, Jr., P.C., Trial Lawyers. Our dedicated team, including attorneys George Creal, Eric Bernstein, Justin Goodman, and Claudia Creal, has decades of combined experience defending clients against DUI charges in Putnam County and throughout Georgia. We understand the life-altering impact of a DUI arrest—from potential jail time to license suspensions—and we're committed to fighting for your rights. With a proven track record of dismissals, reductions, and acquittals, our Putnam County DUI lawyers are here to provide aggressive, personalized representation. Contact us today for a free consultation at (404) 333-0706.
Why Choose Our Putnam County DUI Attorneys?
At George C. Creal, Jr., P.C., we specialize in DUI defense, leveraging our deep knowledge of Georgia DUI laws to challenge evidence, field sobriety tests, breathalyzers, and more. Our team includes:
- George Creal: Founder and lead Putnam County DUI lawyer with over 25 years of experience, specializing in complex DUI cases involving accidents, refusals, and multiple offenses.
- Eric Bernstein: A skilled Putnam County DUI attorney focused on forensic science and breath test challenges, ensuring no stone is left unturned in your defense.
- Justin Goodman: Masterful trial and negotiating skills. Expert in administrative hearings and license suspensions, helping clients minimize jail time and the impact on their driving privileges.
- Claudia Creal: Compassionate and strategic Putnam County DUI lawyer who excels in negotiating plea deals and trial advocacy for first-time offenders.
As local Putnam County DUI attorneys, we're familiar with Putnam County courts, judges, and prosecutors. We've helped hundreds of clients avoid harsh penalties and get back on the road. Don't face a DUI charge alone—let our experienced Putnam County DUI lawyers protect your future.
Summary of Georgia DUI Law
Georgia DUI laws are strict and enforced rigorously in areas like Putnam County. Under OCGA § 40-6-391, it's illegal to operate a vehicle if:
- Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher (for drivers 21 and older).
- You're under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substance that impairs your ability to drive safely, regardless of BAC.
- For drivers under 21, the limit is 0.02% (zero tolerance policy).
- Commercial drivers face a 0.04% BAC limit.
DUI arrests often stem from traffic stops where officers observe erratic driving, administer field sobriety tests (like the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus or Walk-and-Turn), or request chemical tests (breath, blood, or urine). Refusing a test triggers implied consent penalties. As Putnam County DUI attorneys, we scrutinize every aspect of the arrest to identify violations of your rights, such as improper stops or faulty testing equipment.
Criminal Penalties for DUI in Georgia
Penalties for DUI convictions in Georgia escalate with each offense and depend on factors like BAC level, prior convictions, and whether injuries or fatalities occurred. All DUIs are treated seriously, even first offenses. Here's an overview:
- First DUI (Misdemeanor): Up to 1 year in jail (minimum 24 hours if BAC is 0.08% or higher), fines from $300 to $1,000, 40 hours of community service, mandatory DUI Risk Reduction Program (DUI school), and up to 12 months of probation. Ignition interlock may be required.
- Second DUI (Misdemeanor): Minimum 72 hours in jail (up to 1 year), fines from $600 to $1,000, 240 hours of community service, DUI school, clinical evaluation, and 12 months of probation with possible substance abuse treatment.
- Third DUI (High and Aggravated Misdemeanor): Minimum 15 days in jail (up to 1 year), fines from $1,000 to $5,000, 240 hours of community service, DUI school, and extended probation.
- Fourth or Subsequent DUI (Felony): 1 to 5 years in prison (minimum 90 days), fines up to $5,000, vehicle forfeiture possible, and long-term probation.
Additional aggravating factors, like child endangerment or high BAC (0.15%+), can increase penalties. Our Putnam County DUI lawyers—George Creal, Eric Bernstein, Justin Goodman, and Claudia Creal—work tirelessly to reduce charges, often turning felonies into misdemeanors or securing alternative sentencing.
DUI License Suspensions in Georgia
A DUI arrest in Georgia triggers both administrative and criminal license actions. The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) handles administrative suspensions via the Implied Consent Law, while courts impose additional penalties upon conviction.
Administrative License Suspension (ALS):
If you refuse a chemical test, your license is suspended for 1 year (hard suspension—no limited permit). If you fail the test (BAC 0.08%+), it's a 30-day hard suspension followed by possible ignition interlock for 120 days.
Conviction-Based Suspensions:
- First DUI: Up to 1 year suspension; eligible for limited permit after 120 days.
- Second DUI (within 5 years): 3-year suspension (18 months hard); limited permit with interlock breath testing device installed on your car after 120 days with conditions.
- Third DUI (within 5 years): 5-year suspension (2 years hard). Limited permit available after two years with an interlock breath testing device installed on your car.
- Refusal or High BAC: Harsher suspensions, often requiring higher mandatory minimum insurance limits.
We handle ALS hearings within 30 days of arrest to fight suspensions early. As expert Putnam County DUI attorneys, our team has saved countless licenses, allowing clients to drive to work, school, and medical appointments.