Dunwoody, GA DUI Lawyer For A First Offense DUI

Facing your first DUI in Dunwoody can feel like your entire world has been turned upside down. The flashing lights, the arrest, the questions; it all happens so fast. If you’ve never been involved with the legal system before, the fear and uncertainty can be paralyzing.

You’re likely asking yourself: What happens next? Will I go to jail? Will I lose my license? Who can help me?

As a seasoned Dunwoody DUI lawyer, I’ve helped many first-time offenders through this very situation. My goal is to walk you through the key steps you need to take after a DUI arrest, explain what penalties you may be facing, and show you how early legal intervention can help protect your future.

If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Dunwoody, Georgia and don’t know what to do next, call 1-888-839-4384 or use our online contact form to speak with a top rated Georgia DUI lawyer for a free consultation today!

What Is a DUI in Georgia?

In Georgia, a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge can be based on two types of evidence:

• DUI “Per Se”: Driving with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more.
• DUI Less Safe: Operating a vehicle while impaired—even if your BAC is below the legal limit—due to alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances.

If this is your first DUI charge in Dunwoody, you may be eligible for certain alternatives or mitigated sentencing options, but only if you act quickly and retain experienced legal counsel.

Penalties for a First DUI in Dunwoody, Georgia

Even a first offense carries significant consequences under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-391). If convicted of a DUI, you could face:

• Jail time: From 24 hours in jail to 12 months (judges may suspend most or all jail time).
• Fines: Between $300 and $1,000, plus court fees and surcharges.
• Driver’s license suspension: Minimum of 12 months (you may be eligible for a limited permit).
• Community service: Minimum of 40 hours.
• Substance abuse evaluation: Required, followed by treatment if recommended.
• Probation: Up to 12 months, often in lieu of jail time.

These DUI penalties can be even more severe if there were aggravating factors, such as refusing a breath test, having a minor in the car, or being involved in an accident.

What to Do Immediately After a DUI Arrest

After being arrested for your first DUI in Dunwoody, your decisions in the first 24–48 hours are critical. Here’s what to do:

 

1. Remain Silent and Calm

Avoid answering any further questions from law enforcement without a lawyer present. You have the right to remain silent. Use it.

2. Document the Details

Write down everything you remember: where you were, how much you had to drink (if anything), how the traffic stop occurred, what the police officer said and did, and whether field sobriety or breath tests were performed. These facts may be essential to building a strong defense.

3. Request an ALS Hearing (Administrative License Suspension)

If you refused chemical testing or tested over the limit, you only have 30 calendar days to request a hearing with the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) to contest your license suspension. Your Dunwoody DUI lawyer can handle this on your behalf.

4. Hire a Local DUI Lawyer Immediately

Choosing a DUI attorney who knows the Dunwoody Municipal Court system and understands the nuances of DUI defense is vital. A skilled attorney can help preserve your driving privileges, negotiate reduced penalties, or even seek case dismissal where possible.

Why a Dunwoody DUI Lawyer Makes a Difference

Not all criminal defense attorneys are created equal. A lawyer who focuses on DUI law in Georgia will know the science behind breath and blood testing, how to challenge illegal traffic stops, and how to navigate plea deals or pretrial diversion programs that may be available for first-time DUI offenders.

As a local Dunwoody DUI lawyer, I’ve appeared in front of the very judges and prosecutors handling your case. I understand what arguments work in DeKalb County and how to tailor a drunk driving defense strategy that gives you the best chance of protecting your record and your freedom.

What to Expect in Court

DUI cases in Dunwoody typically start in Dunwoody Municipal Court, located inside Dunwoody City Hall at 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Rd, Dunwoody, GA 30338.

Your first appearance is usually an arraignment, where you’ll enter a plea. Before then, your attorney can review the evidence (such as police reports, body cam footage, and test results) and start negotiating with the prosecution.

You may be eligible for pretrial intervention or a negotiated plea to a lesser offense like reckless driving, especially if this is your first DUI in Dunwoody and there are no aggravating circumstances.

Moving Forward After a First DUI Arrest

A DUI arrest doesn’t have to define your future. With the right legal strategy, many first-time offenders are able to minimize the penalties, avoid jail time, and preserve their driver’s license. The key is to act quickly.

As your Dunwoody DUI lawyer, I am committed to providing a strategic, compassionate defense tailored to your circumstances. From filing motions to challenging field sobriety tests to representing you in court, I’ll be with you every step of the way.

Get Help Today

If you’ve been arrested for a DUI offense in Dunwoody, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contacting us today should be your very next step.

The earlier you contact a lawyer, the more options you have for defending your rights and protecting your future.

Take the first step toward resolving your case.

Call 1-888-839-4384 today to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced DUI defense attorney in Dunwoody, GA.