Savannah Georgia DUI Lawyer - Savannah GA Criminal Defense Attorney

The Scope Of A Terry Stop In Savannah GA

2009-11-21T01:27:00.000-05:00

A police officer may arrest you if (1) the officer observes you committing a crime; (2) the officer has probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed by you; or (3) the officer makes the arrest under the authority of a valid arrest warrant.
Generally if a police officer has probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed, the officer may make an arrest without an arrest warrant.

The police can stop you, and ask questions, without "arresting" you. Upon seeing suspicious activity, the police may perform what is called a "Terry Stop," and may temporarily detain people to request that they identify themselves and to question them about the suspicious activity. The scope of a "Terry Stop" is limited to investigation of the specific suspicious activity, and if the police detain you to question about additional matters, the stop can turn into an "arrest." For their own safety, the police can frisk you and if they feel something that may be a weapon, they may remove it from you for further examination. However, they are not entitled to remove items from your pockets that do not appear to be weapons, even if they believe that the items are contraband.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense attorneys help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Conditions For Police Officer May Arrest You Savannah GA

2009-11-20T01:24:00.000-05:00

In Georgia, if you resist arrest, you will be committing a misdemeanor. You must co-operate with a police officer who is trying to arrest you. If you do not co-operate or try to prevent your arrest in any manner including taunting the officer, lying about your identity, struggling with the officer, trying to hurt or escape from the officer or otherwise resisting his or her efforts to take you into custody. Even interfering with a police officer’s attempt to arrest another person can result in you being charged for resisting arrest. An officer may use force that is reasonable and necessary to overcome resistance when making a lawful arrest. An officer cannot use excessive force unless warranted under the circumstances. The police officer is supposed to give a 5th Amendment warning after he arrests you. Often, however, they do not. The only consequence is that the prosecution cannot use any of your answers to questions asked by the police after the arrest. A police officer may arrest you if (1) the officer observes you committing a crime; (2) the officer has probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed by you; or (3) the officer makes the arrest under the authority of a valid arrest warrant.

Generally if a police officer has probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed, the officer may make an arrest without an arrest warrant.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense attorneys help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Drug Laws Savannah Georgia

2009-11-19T01:18:00.000-05:00

Georgia has strict drug laws. If convicted, you can face long prison sentences and heavy fines. In Georgia if a police officer finds that you have illegal drugs, you will be charged with drug possession even if you weren’t actually holding the drugs in your hand. You are considered to be the owner of drugs found in your pockets or clothing, car or home, or any place over which you have control. If an officer finds drugs in your briefcase or purse, you would be considered in possession of those drugs. You can also be charged with drug possession if police find the materials to make a drug or the equipment to use it. If you are found with a certain amount of drugs or you are caught trying to sell drugs or if an officer finds you with a scale, or even wads of money in certain circumstances, you will be charged with possession of drugs with intent to distribute. It is a more serious charge than simple drug possession. The amount of drugs required for this charge depends on the drug involved. If you are caught trying to sell drugs to children, the penalties are more severe.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense attorneys help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Fleeing Is A Criminal Offence In Savannah GA

2009-11-18T01:14:00.000-05:00

If you have been involved in an accident, never leave the scene of an accident. It is a crime. You must follow certain procedures if you are involved in an accident If anyone is injured in the accident, you must report the accident to the police and wait for the police to complete the formalities. You are also duty bound to help the injured and call for an ambulance or the paramedics. You may be guilty of a felony – hit and run- if you flee the scene before the police arrive and if someone dies as a result of the accident, even if you didn’t cause the accident. If the accident results in property damage, you must make reasonable effort to contact the owner of the property.

If a police officer orders you to stop but you don’t, then you will be guilty of fleeing and eluding. Fleeing is a criminal offence. If a police officer orders you to stop, you are required by law to stop. You must stop when the officer driving behind you activates his or her lights and siren. If you injure anyone while fleeing or leave the state of Georgia, you will be guilty of felony no matter how fast you were driving.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense attorneys help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Savannah GA Constitutional Rights

2009-11-17T05:01:00.000-05:00

You should remember your basic constitutional rights when you are being held for possible DUI violation and the most important right of which is your right to remain silent. Once you are flagged down by a police officer for suspicion of DUI violation, it is best that you defer any response to any question made by the arresting officer until you are able to get the service of a DUI attorney. As a general rule, however, there is no right to an attorney until you have submitted to (or refused) blood, breath or urine testing. In some states, there is a right to consult with counsel upon being arrested or before deciding whether to submit to chemical testing. Of course, this does not mean that you cannot ask for one. Bottom line is that you can ask but you may not be allowed that right until after you are arrested. At the very least you can ask the officer to include your request in his police report. First time offenders may have their licenses suspended for one year.
A second conviction within a five year period will result in a five year license suspension. A third conviction within a five year period means a five year suspension of licenses and the driver being denied the right to get a limited permit to drive to work or school for the first two years.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense lawyers help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

A Battery Charge With DUI In Savannah GA

2009-11-17T01:10:00.000-05:00

Battery is an intentional unpermitted act causing harmful or offensive contact with another person. Generally, battery is divided into the following subtypes:

• Simple battery: any nonconsensual, insulting, or hurtful contact
• Sexual battery: battery in the context of a sexual situation
• Domestic violence battery: battery that occurs in the home between partners
• Aggravated battery: an offense that results in serious bodily harm
A battery charge reflects the severity of the damage caused by the act.

As a tort, a battery is a harmful or offensive touching of one person by another. If you touch someone or you come in contact with some part of another person without the other person agreeing to it, you may be committing battery. The law does not require any harm or damage. The person committing the battery may have meant no hatred or ill will.

The gravity of a battery accusation may vary; sometimes the corporal damage can be minimal, even insignificant, nevertheless when it is produced in a severe manner it is determined as a grave battery injury. To determine if somebody is guilty of a battery crime it is required to demonstrate the purpose of the attacker; sometimes the person who commits this crime can be absolved of the charges if he/she presents evidences of suffering an unbalanced mental condition.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense attorneys help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Scoring Factors Savannah GA

2009-11-16T05:01:00.000-05:00

In the case of Standardized Field Sobriety Testing, officers are trained to look for established "scoring factors" which must be evaluated in determining whether or not intoxication exists. A finding of intoxication can only arise once sufficient scoring factors are identified. Upon the identification of only a single scoring factor, an evaluation would be required of a high degree of probability of non-intoxication. When additional scoring factors are identified, probabilities of intoxication are assigned to evaluate test results. If a police officer receives proper training about field sobriety tests, they will be told the proper standards and procedures according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (“NHTSA”). The manual also states that the walk-and-turn and one-leg stand test should not be done if the suspect is over 50 pounds overweight or has physical impairments that could affect his balance. The manual also states that the walk-and-turn test “requires a line that the suspect can see.” This is rarely done. As a defendant in a criminal case, you have the legal right to contest the conduct and result of blood alcohol tests. Issues affecting the manner at which the test was administered and even the technical competence of the officer conducting the test may be challenged by the defendant in the DUI case.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense lawyers help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Felony In Savannah GA

2009-11-16T00:57:00.000-05:00

In a "charge bargain" the prosecution will let you "plead guilty to a lesser charge," or to only some of the charges that have been filed against you. If you are charged with Drunk Driving and Driving With License Suspended, you may be offered the opportunity to plead guilty to just the drunk driving charge. In a "sentence bargain", you will be told in advance what your sentence will be if you plead guilty.
Pleading guilty to a felony will result in a felony conviction. In a plea bargain, you do not have a trial. Rather you have a sentencing. At your sentencing, you will learn of the punishment for the crime you admitted to and shortly after, start serving your jail time or whatever punishment has been assigned to you.

A convicted felon may not be eligible for federal assistance. This may include the ability to receive food stamps and pursue higher education, as convicted felons are not eligible to receive grants, loans, or work study. A criminal conviction can have major repercussions. It can affect the individual on a more basic level when he attempts to seek employment. Federal law and most state agencies now requires background checks and allow disqualification based on conviction in a wide variety of employment areas including education, healthcare services, child and eldercare, financial institutions and transportation. A prior conviction will play an important role in the outcome of all future criminal charges.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense attorneys help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

DUI Law Attorney Savannah Georgia

2009-11-15T05:00:00.000-05:00

The Field Sobriety Test is a battery of tests administered and evaluated in a standardized manner to obtain validated indicators of impairment and establish probable cause for arrest. Your right to an attorney when stopped by a police officer and asked to take a field sobriety test varies from state to state. Most of us make the false impression of considering drunk driving as no different from minor traffic infractions. Unfortunately, this is not the case for drunk driving cases; not by a long shot. Traffic offenses are in most cases considered as civil violations and such result to lighter penalties involving fine and the suspension of the license of the offending party. The suspension or revocation of your license is a separate administrative sanction that will be levied against you on top criminal penalties that you will have to face once conviction for DUI offense is made against you. In Georgia driving with a blood alcohol content of .08 or above is considered under driving influence. The permitted level for minor drivers is .02. For commercial drivers, the limit is .04. Anyone with a blood alcohol level of .15 or more may be subject to higher penalties.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense lawyers help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Sexual Assault Charged With DUI In Savannah GA

2009-11-15T00:54:00.000-05:00

Sexual assault includes any unwanted sexual contact and may involve physical force, pressure, manipulation and/or threats. Some rapists use alcohol or other drugs to take advantage of a victim. Sexual assault is a criminal offence, whether it is committed by a boyfriend/girlfriend, family member, acquaintance or someone else.
If convicted for sexual assault, you could face

• Prison
• Substantial fines
• Probation/parole
• Loss of rights
• Court ordered rehab

Sexual harassment is any unwanted and unwelcome sexual behavior, which can include verbal (e.g., derogatory comments, tales of sexual exploits) and/or physical harassment (e.g., leering, inappropriate touching, asking for sexual favors), displaying derogatory posters or art, and other advances or inappropriate conduct. In order to be considered illegal, the conduct must be unwelcome and offensive to the victim.

If you have been accused of sexual assault, you need to act fast. Hire a qualified and aggressive attorney to ensure your legal rights and interests are fully protected. A conviction can carry a wealth of hidden consequences that can come into play under a variety of circumstances.. A criminal conviction can have major repercussions. It can affect the individual on a more basic level when he attempts to seek employment. Federal law and most state agencies now requires background checks and allow disqualification based on conviction in a wide variety of employment areas including education, healthcare services, child and eldercare, financial institutions and transportation. A prior conviction will play an important role in the outcome of all future criminal charges.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense attorneys help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Department of Driving Services Savannah GA

2009-11-14T04:59:00.000-05:00

DUI is a serious offense. You license can be suspended. First time offenders may have their licenses suspended for one year. A second conviction within a five year period will result in a five year license suspension. If your license is suspended because of DUI, you may be able to keep your license or get a temporary one that allows you to drive to work and school if you fight. If you do not fight, your license will automatically be suspended for a set period of time after your conviction. Failing to apply properly for the temporary license in the right time frame may make you lose your chance to receive it. A third conviction within a five year period means a five year suspension of licenses and the driver being denied the right to get a limited permit to drive to work or school for the first two years.

Request the Department of Driving Services for an administrative licensing hearing within ten days of your arrest. If you don’t, you will loose your right to a hearing. Remember, the ten days start from the first business day after your arrest. The hearing is generally scheduled about 60 days after your arrests. The hearing is held before an officer who reviews the evidence you produce and determine whether or not to suspend or revoke your license. You will be given an opportunity to question the officer who arrested you. Based on the evidence you produce and your questioning, the officer will take a decision.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense lawyers help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Federal Criminal Law In Savannah GA

2009-11-14T00:53:00.000-05:00

In federal criminal law, prior sentences, including misdemeanors where incarceration is not imposed, play an important role in determining the sentence. The criminal history score affects the sentencing of repeat offenders when they are convicted of a new crime. Pursuant to the United States Sentencing Guidelines, sentences for misdemeanors and petty offenses are included when calculating the criminal history category for sentencing. A minor misdemeanor charge could, in fact, transform into a felony and result in a permanent strike, and if there are any prior felony convictions bring an even more severe penalty. If you have been convicted, you generally have the right to appeal. An appeal asks the higher court to overturn the trial court’s decision based on legal or procedural error. The judges on appeal are looking for errors which may have changed the verdict.

A conviction can carry a wealth of hidden consequences that can come into play under a variety of circumstances.. A criminal conviction can have major repercussions. It can affect the individual on a more basic level when he attempts to seek employment. Federal law and most state agencies now requires background checks and allow disqualification based on conviction in a wide variety of employment areas including education, healthcare services, child and eldercare, financial institutions and transportation. A prior conviction will play an important role in the outcome of all future criminal charges.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense attorneys help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

The Right To Appeal Savannah GA DUI And Criminal Defense Attorneys

2009-11-13T05:35:00.000-05:00

If you have been convicted, you generally have the right to appeal. An appeal asks the higher court to overturn the trial court’s decision based on legal or procedural error. The judges on appeal are looking for errors which may have changed the verdict.

In a appeal, you submit written "briefs" to the appellate court, along with a copy of the trial court transcript and any exhibits that were used at trial. Oral arguments may be scheduled. Arguments are typically very short in duration, and tend to be academic in nature, focusing on legal issues. In an appeal, the higher court looks for errors in the decision of the trial court. If the higher court finds errors in the trial court’s decision, the appeal court may order a re-trial or set aside the conviction.

Sometimes the higher court may find errors in the trial court’s decision but the errors might be insignificant and the higher court may feel that the errors did not affect the outcome of the case. The higher court may also find that there are no errors in the trial court’s decision. In both these cases, the trial court will dismiss the appeal and the decision of the trial court will be upheld.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense attorneys help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Criminal Defense Savanna GA

2009-11-13T04:58:00.000-05:00

If you operate a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or intoxicating substance, you will be guilty of an offense – Driving Under the Influence or DUI. The exact constraints differ by state but most states consider someone legally under the influence with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 percent or greater, or anyone that has used any type of illegal substance while driving. If you are a first-time offender, you may end up with a fine, possible jail time or community service with a suspension of your license under the DUI Law. You may be asked to attend, compulsorily an alcohol education program to avoid further such occurrences. In the event that you are a repeat offender, hefty fines and jail time is ensured. Your participation in the alcohol abuse program will also be longer and mandatory; moreover your license will be suspended or revoked and vehicle impounded.

Expungement is the removal of police and court records from public inspection. Your records will not be physically destroyed, but they will be sealed and treated as confidential. To expunge your DUI conviction in simple language means to seal or destroy your conviction records. It is possible to expunge your DUI conviction by law and by inherent judicial authority. In expungement, the court orders the sealing or erasing of the legal record of an arrest or conviction. The record is sealed or erased in the eyes of law. It is like the arrest or conviction never happened.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense lawyers help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Help For Clients Charged With DUI In Savannah GA

2009-11-12T05:16:00.000-05:00

Probation is an effort to allow first-time and minor offenders a second chance. Probation is part and parcel of the offender's initial sentence. Probation is handed down by the judge at trial. It may be in lieu of jail time or in combination with some jail time. The judge will specify restrictions on the prisoner's activities during the probation period.

If you are convicted, you may be placed on probation. If you are on probation you must ordinarily meet with your probation officer every month, and at times more frequently. Sometimes, you will be placed on "non-reporting" probation. In such cases, you need not meet with a probation officer.

Typically, at the end of your probation, you will be asked to demonstrate that you complied with the terms of probation, and your record will be checked for any further criminal activity. Sometimes, you will be allowed to report by mail. This usually happens in cases where you have been on probation without any problems for a long time, but your probation officer still wants periodic information on your activities.

If you have been convicted of a drug conviction, you may have to report to the probation office frequently for drug testing. A court may also order drug or alcohol counseling, or attendance of Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcaholics Anonymous meetings. During probation, you must typically seek permission from your probation officer before moving or changing jobs. You may be restricted from leaving the state without the probation officer's permission.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense attorneys help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

GA Criminal Defense lawyers

2009-11-12T04:57:00.000-05:00

DUI law is markedly different from many other areas of law. Some even say that there is a DUI exception to the Constitution. Most of the time, a police officer must have probable cause” before pulling you over. In layman’s terms, the probable cause requirement means that an officer must have some concrete reason to believe that a person is breaking the law. While this is always true if a single officer pulls you over on the road, consider the fact that, with sobriety checkpoints, a police officer needs nothing more than for you to drive through it.

If you are stopped for DUI, the police officer will ask you if to take field sobriety tests to obtain additional evidence as to whether he has probable cause to believe you are operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Field sobriety tests are generally conducted late at night, possibly cold, along a graveled or sloped roadside, cars passing a few feet away with bright headlights and buffeting the suspect with wind waves, the officer's moving flashlight and his patrol car's blinding headlights providing the lighting. These conditions make it highly possible for the driver to fail the test. The driver is nervous, possibly frightened and completely unfamiliar with the tests.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense lawyers help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Probation Savannah GA DUI And Criminal Defense Attorneys

2009-11-11T07:36:00.000-05:00

Probation and parole represent ways for people convicted of crimes to avoid doing time. Both are conditioned on good behavior. If the prisoner messes up, he/she is sent back to prison. Probation is part and parcel of the offender's initial sentence. Probation is handed down by the judge at trial. It may be in lieu of jail time or in combination with some jail time. The judge will specify restrictions on the prisoner's activities during the probation period.

If you are accused of violating your parole, you will typically be given the opportunity to challenge the accusation at an administrative hearing before the parole board. There will typically be two hearings, the first to determine if you should be held in custody pending the full hearing, and the second to determine if you violated the terms of your parole. If you fail to report for meetings with the probation officer or you are caught with illegal drugs or concealed weapons or you associate with known criminals, or you are arrested on new criminal charges, you are more likely to be returned to prison. It should be noted that being arrested can be enough to violate a person's parole, even if no charges result from that arrest.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense attorneys help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI

2009-11-11T04:56:00.000-05:00

The following factors will play a major role in your DUI defense:

• Whether your constitutional rights have been breached
• Whether the officer concerned followed the correct procedures
• Whether you were read your rights when the officer made the DUI/DWI arrest
• Whether the blood and alcohol level tests were properly carried out
• Whether the equipment used to monitor blood alcohol levels was maintained and in good working order

Here are some defenses to a DUI charge:

• Blood-alcohol concentration - There exists a wide range of potential problems with blood, breath or urine testing. "Nonspecific" analysis, for example: most breath machines will register many chemical compounds found on the human breath as alcohol. And breath machines assume a 2100-to-1 ratio in converting alcohol in the breath into alcohol in the blood; in fact, this ratio varies widely from person to person (and within a person from one moment to another). Radio frequency interference can result in inaccurate readings. These and other defects in analysis can be brought out in cross-examination of the state's expert witness, and/or the defense can hire its own forensic chemist.
• Testing during the absorptive phase - The blood, breath or urine test will be unreliable if done while you are still actively absorbing alcohol (it takes 45 minutes to three hours to complete absorption; this can be delayed if food is present in the stomach). Thus, drinking "one for the road" can cause inaccurate test results.
• Retrograde extrapolation - This refers to the requirement that the BAC be "related back" in time from the test to the driving.
• Regulation of blood-alcohol testing - The prosecution must prove that the blood, breath or urine test complied with state requirements as to calibration, maintenance, etc.
• License suspension hearings - A number of issues can be raised in the context of an administrative hearing before the state's department of motor vehicles.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense lawyers help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Savannah DUI And Criminal Defense Attorney

2009-11-10T07:36:00.001-05:00

There's no shortage of attorneys in Georgia. Shop around until you find the one with whom you feel most comfortable. A legal action, whether criminal or civil, often ends up being a long-term relationship with the attorney you hire.

Selecting an attorney is a matter of knowing when you need one, what type of attorney is best and the steps to choose the right attorney. The attorney client relationship is a vital decision.

Firstly you will need to decide on the type of attorney you need. Attorneys in big cities specialize in various fields.

Once you've determined the type of attorney you need, don't make the mistake of calling the first attorney who comes to mind. Work your network of friends, business associates, accountants, or bankers who can recommend a referral.

Referrals are only starting points. You should then research the attorney's credentials and background. Look for news reports about the attorney, articles written by the attorney, cases the attorney won or lost. Check if the attorney is properly licensed. Check if the attorney is properly licensed. Other sources for locating attorneys include yellow pages and local bar associations.

Talk to several attorneys and short list the ones you feel will be able to work on your case. Call each of the short listed attorneys and check if they are available for a meeting to discuss your case, and what the fee schedule would be for this meeting. Ask for any information available on the attorney or your subject matter, and review it carefully. This is the time for comparison shopping. Compare the background and work experience of one attorney with another before you call for an appointment.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense attorneys help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

DUI Law Savannah GA

2009-11-10T04:55:00.000-05:00

If you are a first-time offender, you may end up with a fine, possible jail time or community service with a suspension of your license under the DUI Law. You may be asked to attend, compulsorily an alcohol education program to avoid further such occurrences. In the event that you are a repeat offender, hefty fines and jail time is ensured. Your participation in the alcohol abuse program will also be longer and mandatory; moreover your license will be suspended or revoked and vehicle impounded.

If you stopped by a police officer and he asks if you've been drinking, here’s what you should do. First of all, remember, you are not required to answer potentially incriminating questions. A polite "I would like to speak with an attorney before I answer any questions" is normally a very good reply. On the other hand, saying that you had one or two beers is not incriminating: it is not sufficient to cause intoxication - and it may explain the odor of alcohol on the breath. So based on your circumstances either of those answers will suffice.

As a general rule, however, there is no right to an attorney until you have submitted to (or refused) blood, breath or urine testing. In some states, there is a right to consult with counsel upon being arrested or before deciding whether to submit to chemical testing. Of course, this does not mean that you cannot ask for one. Bottom line is that you can ask but you may not be allowed that right until after you are arrested. At the very least you can ask the officer to include your request in his police report.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense lawyers help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Georgia DUI Attorney

2009-11-03T21:31:00.002-05:00

Georgia DUI Attorney

Your first order of business is to get in touch with a Georgia DUI attorney immediately. They can provide an objective and experienced perspective of your legal situation. Through their expertise and advice, you can choose the best option available to your current situation. A Georgia DUI attorney knows all the legal rules to use to your advantage as well as interpreting state constitutions to serve as a lifeline. The best way to avoid such harsh penalties is to avoid being charged with DUI at all, or at least being charged more than once. However, we understand that sometimes, mistakes are made and unfortunate circumstances do arise. If you are facing multiple DUI charges, then the help of an experienced and skilled DUI defense attorney can be invaluable.
You’ll most likely need to attend administrative hearings held to determine the status of your driving privileges after you have been arrested for a driving under the influence charge. Driving is something most people take for granted, but each state considers it a privilege and not an absolute right. Some states allow you to appeal a license suspension so that you can continue to drive up until your criminal trial takes place. If this is the case, your attorney can work with you to prepare for the appeal hearing. Your attorney can also speak on your behalf during this hearing so that you have a better chance of getting your driving privileges reinstated. Your lawyer will know what to say and how to handle your case because of the experience they have in the field of DUI law.
Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense lawyers help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.
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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

GA DUI Lawyer

2009-11-03T21:30:00.002-05:00

GA DUI Lawyer

Most legal matters are downright confusing; especially to ordinary people with no legal background. It isn't expected for someone like you or me to understand the in-depth legal vocabulary a typical Georgia DUI attorney would use inside the courtroom. People facing a DUI charge need a Georgia DUI attorney to help them make the correct decisions. As a general rule, however, there is no right to an attorney until you have submitted to (or refused) blood, breath or urine testing. In some states, there is a right to consult with counsel upon being arrested or before deciding whether to submit to chemical testing. Of course, this does not mean that you cannot ask for one. Bottom line is that you can ask but you may not be allowed that right until after you are arrested. At the very least you can ask the officer to include your request in his police report. If you stopped by a police officer and he asks if you've been drinking, here’s what you should do. First of all, remember, you are not required to answer potentially incriminating questions. A polite "I would like to speak with an attorney before I answer any questions" is normally a very good reply. On the other hand, saying that you had one or two beers is not incriminating: it is not sufficient to cause intoxication - and it may explain the odor of alcohol on the breath. So based on your circumstances either of those answers will suffice.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense lawyers help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.
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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

DUI Convictions in Savannah Georgia

2009-11-01T19:12:00.000-05:00

DUI Convictions in Savannah Georgia

First time offenders may have their licenses suspended for one year. A second conviction within a five year period will result in a five year license suspension. A third conviction within a five year period means a five year suspension of licenses and the driver being denied the right to get a limited permit to drive to work or school for the first two years.

It is unlawful to have an excessive blood-alcohol content (BAC) at the time of DRIVING - not at the time of being TESTED. Since it takes between 45 minutes and 3 hours for alcohol to be absorbed into the system, an individual's BAC may continue to rise for some time after he is stopped and arrested. Commonly, it is an hour or more after the stop when the blood, breath or urine test is given to the suspect. Assume that the result is .10%. If the suspect has continued to absorb alcohol since he was stopped, his BAC at the time he was driving may have been only .07%. In other words, the test result shows a blood-alcohol concentration above the legal limit - but his actual BAC AT THE TIME OF DRIVING was below.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense lawyers help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.
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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer - Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney

Savannah GA DUI Lawyer

2009-11-01T19:10:00.002-05:00

Savannah GA DUI Lawyer

In Georgia the police generally use the Intoxilyzer 5000. The Intoxilyzer 5000 is generally considered accurate but can be affected by body temperature, electrical currents, breath sprays and other conditions including the condition of the device and the officer’s training in using the device. You should remember your basic constitutional rights when you are being held for possible DUI violation and the most important right of which is your right to remain silent. Once you are flagged down by a police officer for suspicion of DUI violation, it is best that you defer any response to any question made by the arresting officer until you are able to get the service of a DUI attorney. As a general rule, however, there is no right to an attorney until you have submitted to (or refused) blood, breath or urine testing. In some states, there is a right to consult with counsel upon being arrested or before deciding whether to submit to chemical testing.

There exists a wide range of potential problems with blood, breath or urine testing. "Nonspecific" analysis, for example: most breath machines will register many chemical compounds found on the human breath as alcohol. And breath machines assume a 2100-to-1 ratio in converting alcohol in the breath into alcohol in the blood; in fact, this ratio varies widely from person to person (and within a person from one moment to another). Radio frequency interference can result in inaccurate readings. These and other defects in analysis can be brought out in cross-examination of the state's expert witness, and/or the defense can hire its own forensic chemist.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense lawyers help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer.

Savannah DUI Lawyer – GA Attorney

2009-10-29T16:46:00.000-04:00

Savannah DUI Lawyer – GA Attorney

DUI is a serious offense. You license can be suspended. First time offenders may have their licenses suspended for one year. A second conviction within a five year period will result in a five year license suspension. If your license is suspended because of DUI, you may be able to keep your license or get a temporary one that allows you to drive to work and school if you fight. If you do not fight, your license will automatically be suspended for a set period of time after your conviction. Failing to apply properly for the temporary license in the right time frame may make you lose your chance to receive it. A third conviction within a five year period means a five year suspension of licenses and the driver being denied the right to get a limited permit to drive to work or school for the first two years.

Request the Department of Driving Services for an administrative licensing hearing within ten days of your arrest. If you don’t, you will loose your right to a hearing. Remember, the ten days start from the first business day after your arrest. The hearing is generally scheduled about 60 days after your arrests. The hearing is held before an officer who reviews the evidence you produce and determine whether or not to suspend or revoke your license. You will be given an opportunity to question the officer who arrested you. Based on the evidence you produce and your questioning, the officer will take a decision.

Our Savannah GA (Georgia) DUI and Criminal Defense lawyers help clients charged with DUI in Savannah GA (Georgia), Richmond Hill, Coastal Empire, Hinesville, Port Wentworth, Pooler, Garden City, Tybee Island, Bloomingdale, Isle of Hope, Pembroke, Darien, Augusta, Brunswick, Statesboro, Rincon, Springfield, Lyons Vidalia, Claxton, Metter, Swainsboro, Baxley, Jesup, McCrae, Valdosta, Waynesboro, Wrightsville, Chatham County, Bryan County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, Liberty County, Long County, Evans County, Bulloch County, Effingham County and Toombs County, and in Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.

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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer.

Savannah Georgia Criminal Defense Lawyer.

www.savannah-dui-lawyer.com