The penalties for a first offense DUI in Atlanta can be quite tough, and for subsequent offenses, penalties are even more harsh. Punishments can vary greatly depending on the circumstances of each particular case, yet the general range of the penalties most drivers will face for DUI charges is as follows:

First Offense Atlanta DUI Penalties

If you are convicted of a DUI, the offense is a misdemeanor, though the penalties still include jail time.

1. 24 hours - 12 months in jail
2. $300-1,000 in fines
3. 40 hours of community service
4. Clinical evaluation, followed by treatment for alcohol and/or drug abuse, if necessary
5. Risk Reduction Program/DUI School
6. Suspension of driver's license for up to 12 months

Second Offense Atlanta DUI Penalties

If you are convicted of a second DUI within 10 years of the last conviction, the offense is a misdemeanor, but the penalties become more severe than a first offense.

1. 72 hours - 12 months in jail
2. $600 - $1,000 in fines
3. 40 hours of community service
4. Clinical evaluation, followed by treatment for alcohol and/or drug abuse, if necessary
5. Risk Reduction Program/DUI School
6. Suspension of driver's license for up to 18 months
7. Installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle
8. Publication of your name, photograph, residential zip code, and details of your arrest and conviction in your local newspaper

Third Offense Atlanta DUI Penalties 

If you are convicted of a third DUI within 10 years of the last conviction, the offense is a high and aggravated misdemeanor. The penalties include more significant jail time and fines.

1. 15 days - 12 months in jail
2. $1,000 -  $5,000 in fines
3. 240 hours of community service
4. Clinical evaluation, followed by treatment for alcohol and/or drug abuse, if necessary
5. Risk Reduction Program/DUI School
6. Installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle
7. Suspension of driver's license for up to 5 years
8. Publication of your name, photograph, residential zip code, and details of your arrest and conviction in your local newspaper

Fourth Offense Atlanta DUI Penalties 

If you are convicted of a fourth DUI within 10 years of the last conviction, the offense is a felony. The penalties include up to years in prison, revocation of driver's license and confiscation of your vehicle.

1. 90 days - 5 years in jail
2. $1,000 - $5,000 in fines
3. 60 days of community service
4. Clinical evaluation, followed by treatment for alcohol and/or drug abuse, if necessary
5. Risk Reduction Program/DUI School
6. Installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle
7. Revocation of driver's license for 5 years
8. Publication of your name, photograph, residential zip code, and details of your arrest and conviction in your local newspaper
9. Your vehicle is subject to forfeiture

There are many factors which can affect the penalty range for any DUI offense level. If you are facing charges, please contact me. When we have an opportunity to speak, we will examine the circumstances of your case, your history, and all other relevant factors. This will allow you to have a clear understanding of what penalties you could face, how these could impact your life, and what we can do together to advocate for your best possible outcome.