Savannah DUI Drugs Lawyer

Savannah DUI Drugs Attorney

DUI offenses involving drugs in Georgia can come with severe long-term consequences, all of which can impact almost every area of your life. When facing a DUI drug arrest in Savannah, it’s crucial that you seek legal aid from a skilled defense attorney who can help you better understand your charges and potential legal options. At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., our experienced Savannah DUI drugs lawyer can advocate for your rights and safeguard your future.

Understanding DUI Drug Charges in Georgia

While most people associate DUI charges with alcohol, drivers who are impaired by drugs and illegal substances in Georgia may also be charged with DUIs. A driver in Georgia faces DUI drug charges when operating a vehicle while influenced by illegal drugs, prescription medications, or certain over-the-counter substances that impair driving ability.

Driving with a valid prescription does not exempt you from DUI drug charges if an officer determines you are impaired. However, it is more challenging to prove impairment due to drugs as certain field sobriety and chemical tests that are used with drunk drivers don’t always work with individuals impaired by drugs. These cases require extensive analysis of evidence to ensure all legal procedures are followed and that drivers aren’t arrested without probable cause.

How Drug DUIs Differ From Alcohol DUIs in Georgia

While individuals impaired by both drugs or alcohol can receive a DUI, there are still differences between drug DUI charges and alcohol DUI charges in Georgia. For example, determining impairment due to alcohol is often easier and produces clearer results. This is because law enforcement can use standardized field sobriety tests and chemical tests that produce trusted results.

However, DUI evaluations involving possible drug impairment require subjective officer assessments and chemical tests that might fail to properly measure impairment levels. Drug Recognition Experts (DREs) often assist officers in assessing impairment as well, yet their conclusions can face legal challenges during trials. The uncertain nature of evidence in DUI drug cases demands a robust legal approach to contest the validity of your impairment.

Penalties for DUI Drug Offenses in Savannah

The state of Georgia imposes severe punishments on those convicted of drug-related DUIs, regardless of whether the defendant is a first-time offender. People convicted of drug DUIs in Savannah may face fines of up to $1,000 along with license suspension, drug counseling, jail time, and more.

The penalties for a drug DUI in Savannah become more serious with repeat offenses. A subsequent drug DUI conviction may involve longer license suspensions, mandatory ignition interlock device installations, and even prison time. A criminal conviction of this nature also creates barriers between future job and housing opportunities.

Locating flaws in the prosecution’s presentation of evidence can help to reduce penalties or even get your case dismissed. A knowledgeable Savannah DUI lawyer from our firm can evaluate your case and work to build a defense that fights for the most optimal outcome possible.

Why You Need a Savannah DUI Drugs Defense Attorney

The outcome of a drug DUI case in Savannah can be greatly influenced by a powerful defense strategy. People who challenge DUI drug charges without help from a skilled attorney risk facing serious penalties as a result of their conviction, such as losing their driver’s license or receiving jail sentences. When you work with a seasoned DUI defense lawyer, you provide yourself with a steadfast advocate who can help you navigate every step of your case and protect your rights.

Our team at Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C. possesses in-depth knowledge regarding the intricacies that come with drug DUI cases in Georgia. We can examine all components of your case to build the strongest defense possible, including your assessing your arrest and the procedures that were used to determine your impairment. Our team works relentlessly to protect the rights and futures of Savannah residents and is prepared to do the same for you.

DUI Drugs FAQs

Q: What Is Considered a DUI Drugs Charge in Georgia?

A: Georgia drivers can face DUI drug charges when they operate vehicles while impaired by illegal drugs, prescription drugs, or over-the-counter medications that prevent safe driving. A DUI drug charge is similar to a DUI alcohol charge in that both punish a driver for operating a vehicle while impaired. However, determining impairment caused by drugs is much more difficult than determining impairment caused by alcohol.

Q: Can You Be Charged With a Drug DUI in Georgia If You Have a Prescription?

A: Possessing a valid prescription does not provide immunity from a DUI charge in Georgia. Even with a prescription, you may still be arrested and face charges if law enforcement believes your medication left you impaired. Prescribed painkillers, sedatives, and muscle relaxants can all cause drowsiness and slowed reaction times, which can cause unsafe driving and ultimately lead to a DUI. Consult a defense lawyer to assess whether your DUI arrest was valid in Georgia.

Q: What Are the Penalties for a DUI Drugs Conviction in Georgia?

A: The consequences of a DUI drug conviction in Georgia will depend on whether you have prior offenses. However, consequences generally involve fines, license suspensions, mandatory drug counseling sessions, probation terms, and potential jail or prison time. Repeat offenders may receive extended suspensions, higher fines, and mandatory ignition interlock device installation.

Q: Can You Refuse a Drug Test If You’re Pulled Over for a DUI in Georgia?

A: Georgia’s implied consent law imposes serious consequences when drivers refuse to submit to drug or chemical tests. Under Georgia law, all drivers who operate a vehicle within the state must take a chemical or drug test when asked by law enforcement. A refusal to undergo a blood or urine chemical test following a drug DUI arrest results in an automatic driver’s license suspension for a minimum of one year, regardless of your court conviction.

Contact a Skilled Savannah DUI Drugs Lawyer

A DUI drug charge in Savannah can have lasting consequences, from license suspension to a permanent criminal record and difficulty finding future jobs. If you’re facing drug DUI charges, don’t wait to seek trusted legal aid. Contact Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C. today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can advocate for you during a Savannah DUI drugs case.