According to reports from this past month, an off-duty DeKalb County police detective was arrested for DUI Drugs in Atlanta.

The detective allegedly hit a pedestrian with his vehicle. The pedestrian was not seriously injured but did complain of an injured leg and was subsequently taken to Grady Memorial Hospital.

Investigating officers conducted sobriety tests, and the detective was arrested on a charge of DUI and reckless driving.

As a DUI Lawyer in Atlanta, I will outline the law behind DUI as well as the penalties faced if convicted in today's post.

DUI in Atlanta

The law regarding DUI in Atlanta is in depth. I've mentioned how strict the DUI laws are in this state, but take a look at the law below to see how inclusive our statute is.

A person shall not drive or be in actual physical control of any moving vehicle while:

(1) Under the influence of alcohol to the extent that it is less safe for the person to drive;

(2) Under the influence of any drug to the extent that it is less safe for the person to drive;

(3) Under the intentional influence of any glue, aerosol, or other toxic vapor to the extent that it is less safe for the person to drive;

(4) Under the combined influence of any two or more of the substances specified in paragraphs (1) through (3) of this subsection to the extent that it is less safe for the person to drive;

(5) The person's alcohol concentration is 0.08 grams or more at any time within three hours after such driving or being in actual physical control from alcohol consumed before such driving or being in actual physical control ended; or

(6) Subject to the provisions of subsection (b) of this Code section, there is any amount of marijuana or a controlled substance, as defined in Code Section 16-13-21, present in the person's blood or urine, or both, including the metabolites and derivatives of each or both without regard to whether or not any alcohol is present in the person's breath or blood.

If convicted of DUI, a first or second conviction will be classified as a misdemeanor. However, a third conviction of DUI will be classified as a high and aggravated misdemeanor. And a fourth or subsequent conviction of DUI will be classified as a felony.

Atlanta DUI Penalties are harsh and regardless of life circumstances, can alter anyone's day to day living. DUI Penalties can include the following:

• Jail or Prison Time
• Probation
• Fines including Court Costs and Surcharges
• Community Service
• Substance Abuse Counseling
• Attendance of the DUI Risk Reduction School
• Attendance of a Madd Mothers Victim Impact Panel
• Drivers License Suspension

Practice Note

If you or a loved one has been arrested for DUI in the city of Atlanta, reach out to our offices ASAP. We can help you with your case. Call an Atlanta DUI Attorney now.