As leading DUI lawyers in Georgia, we know that just because you were arrested doesn’t mean you’re guilty. If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence, you need to launch an aggressive defense—and we can help. Contact us online to schedule a consultation.
Maybe you were tired after a long day of work and fell asleep at the wheel. Or maybe you were sobering up in a parked car after one too many drinks. Whatever circumstances precipitated your DUI charge, one thing’s for sure—your future is on the line.
Now, you have to make a critical decision: How should you plead? Although it’s tempting to just cooperate with police and plead guilty, you need to understand that doing so can incur steep penalties in Georgia. Even if you’re not totally blameless, you still have rights—and exercising them may be the best way to protect your future.
At Joseph Williams Law, we believe that every Georgian who’s been charged with a crime deserves a robust defense. Before you waive your rights, it’s a good idea to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney to get a better understanding of what you’re up against.
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Georgia, you may be feeling embarrassed, isolated and afraid. However, your situation is far from hopeless. This article will explain everything you need to know about DUI charges in Georgia, possible defenses and how our law firm may be able to help you wipe the slate clean.
Has a DUI charge turned your life upside down? Don’t let an accusation jeopardize everything you’ve worked for. A Georgia DUI lawyer can explain your rights and chart a way forward. Get in touch with us online to set up a case evaluation or give us a call at (912) 259-6548 today.
About Williams Law DUI Defense Firm
At Joseph Williams Law, our practice is focused exclusively on defending individuals accused of committing crimes. Founded by Joseph Williams in 2017, our firm brings a concentrated, knowledgeable approach to Georgia DUI defense. As of January 2026, we have an office location in Statesboro and Reidsville.
We are not general practitioners; we are specialists who understand the intricate nuances of Georgia’s DUI statutes, case law, and the science behind the evidence the state uses against you. Our deep familiarity with local courts, prosecutors, and law enforcement procedures across the state gives our clients a distinct advantage.
Every client deserves a vigorous defense, and we tailor our strategies to the unique circumstances of each case. We fight to achieve the best possible outcome.
DUI Defense Services We Offer
Navigating the legal system after a DUI arrest requires an attorney who can handle the full spectrum of related charges and circumstances. Our comprehensive DUI defense services are designed to address every facet of your case, including the Administrative License Suspension Appeal.
A first offense DUI in Georgia carries severe penalties that can impact your life for years, including license suspension, hefty fines, and mandatory alcohol education programs. Many facing their first DUI believe they have no options and plead guilty. This is a mistake. A Georgia first offense DUI lawyer can often negotiate for alternative sentencing to help avoid the most severe penalties for a first DUI and protect your criminal record.
A DUI of drugs in Georgia does not require proof of illegal substance use; even prescription medications can lead to charges if they impair your ability to drive. These cases are highly complex, involving forensic toxicology reports and subjective officer observations. A skilled Georgia DUI of drugs lawyer is essential to challenge the state’s evidence regarding impairment and the types of DUI drug allegations you face. The penalties for a DUI Drug conviction are the same as for a DUI alcohol.
Subsequent DUI charges bring exponentially harsher consequences, including mandatory jail time, longer license suspensions, and the possibility of a felony charge. If you are facing multiple DUI charges, you need an aggressive defense team. Our multiple DUI attorney in Statesboro works relentlessly to challenge the enhancement of penalties and protect you from the most severe outcomes that subsequent DUI convictions bring.
Georgia has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21. An underage DUI in Georgia can derail a young person’s future, affecting college admissions, scholarships, and career prospects. Our firm provides compassionate yet fierce defense for young clients. An underage DUI defense lawyer from our team understands the specific underage DUI laws in Georgia and fights to minimize the long-term collateral damage of a young person’s mistake.
An aggravated DUI in Georgia is a serious felony charge typically involving factors like excessive BAC, having a minor in the vehicle, causing serious injury, or having prior convictions. The stakes could not be higher. You need an aggravated DUI lawyer in Georgia with a proven track record in high-stakes litigation. Our firm has the experience and determination to build a powerful defense against these severe allegations.
Why Hire a Georgia DUI Lawyer?
Sometimes you don’t realize everything you have to lose until you’re on the verge of losing it. That’s certainly the case when it comes to DUI convictions in Georgia.
Make no mistake: A DUI conviction is much more than a slap on the wrist. If you’re found guilty of driving under the influence (or plead guilty to a DUI) in Georgia, you could be facing jail time, fines and the suspension of your driver’s license for up to a year. You may even lose your job and have your professional license revoked.
Even after you’ve paid the price for your actions, a DUI conviction can continue to haunt your life and do untold damage to your reputation. It can negatively affect your marriage, family ties, business connections and friendships, as well as sully your image in the eyes of your community.
That’s a high price to pay for any mistake, especially one you didn’t mean to make or didn’t make at all. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be your future when you partner with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Felony DUI Charges in Georgia
Most DUIs are considered misdemeanors in Georgia. However, the following scenarios can elevate DUIs to felony status:
- The current offense is the driver’s fourth or subsequent DUI conviction in 10 years.
- The driver attempts to evade the police while driving under the influence.
- The driver seriously injures or kills another person while driving under the influence.
Felonies are considered more serious than misdemeanors, and as a result, their punishments tend to be more severe. If convicted of a felony DUI, you will be sentenced to a minimum of one year in prison.
Understanding the DUI Defense Process
Knowledge is power. Understanding what lies ahead can alleviate some of the anxiety you’re feeling. The DUI defense process in Georgia generally involves several key stages:
- The Arrest and Administrative License Suspension (ALS): Your legal journey begins at the moment of arrest. The ALS issue usually only comes up when the arrest is made by Georgia State Patrol, and there is a refusal to give breath or blood. When this happens, the Georgia State Patrol will take your driver’s license and give you a temporary permit to drive for 45 days. You have only 30 days from your arrest to request an ALS hearing to fight the automatic suspension of your driver’s license. We act swiftly to file this request and begin building your defense.
- Arraignment: This is your first court appearance, where you are formally charged and enter a plea. With our representation, we will enter a “not guilty” plea on your behalf, preserving all your legal rights and options. In most courts, including Bulloch, Effingham, Jenkins, Screven, Candler, Evans, and Tattnall, we can waive your appearance so that you do not have to show up to court for arraignment.
- Discovery and Investigation: This is the core of our work. We obtain all evidence from the prosecution—arrest videos, dashcam footage, breathalyzer calibration records, officer notes—and conduct our own independent investigation.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Based on our investigation, we decide whether to file legal motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally or to challenge faulty procedures. Successfully arguing these motions can severely weaken the state’s case or even lead to dismissal.
- Negotiation or Trial: We explore all avenues for a favorable resolution, whether through negotiation with the prosecutor for a reduced charge or, if necessary, taking your case to trial before a judge or jury. We are always prepared to fight for you in court.
The Role of Your DUI Defense Attorney
Your DUI defense attorney is your shield, strategist, and guide. Our role extends far beyond simple court representation. We are your advocate from the very first call. We handle all communication with the court and prosecutors, decode complex legal jargon, manage strict filing deadlines, and protect you from tactics that could jeopardize your case.
We explain every option in clear terms, empowering you to make informed decisions about your defense. Ultimately, our role is to leverage our expertise to create a path toward the most favorable resolution, providing clarity and confidence during a confusing time.
Benefits of Hiring a DUI Lawyer
The decision to hire a specialized DUI defense lawyer is the most critical step you can take after an arrest. The benefits are substantial:
- Protecting Your Rights: Law enforcement must follow strict constitutional procedures. We ensure your rights were not violated during the stop, arrest, or testing of your blood or breath.
- Minimizing Penalties: We fight to avoid jail time, reduce fines, protect your driver’s license, and keep your record as clean as possible.
- Navigating Complex Systems: The interplay between the criminal court and the Georgia Department of Driver Services is complicated. We manage both fronts simultaneously.
- Access to Expert Resources: We have a network of forensic toxicologists, accident reconstruction specialists, and investigators whose insights can be pivotal to your defense.
- Peace of Mind: Having a dedicated expert in your corner allows you to focus on your life and family while we handle the legal battle.
Why Choose Our DUI Lawyer?
When the quality of your future is on the line, the choice of an attorney matters. Here is why clients across Georgia trust Joseph Williams Law:
- Proven Track Record: We have a history of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients, from dismissals and not-guilty verdicts to significant charge reductions.
- Aggressive & Strategic Advocacy: Joseph Williams is a trial-tested litigator who is not afraid to take a case to court. His assertive approach in negotiations and the courtroom is driven by thorough preparation, his reputation, and the relationships he’s made throughout his career.
- Client-Centered Approach: You are not just a case file. You will have direct access to your attorney 24/7, clear communication, and compassionate support throughout the entire process.
- Deep Local Knowledge: Our understanding of the tendencies of judges and prosecutors in different Georgia jurisdictions allows us to craft localized, effective defense strategies.
Contact Us at Williams Law Today
Time is of the essence in a DUI case. The sooner you have a skilled DUI defense lawyer in Georgia working on your behalf, the sooner we can build a strong defense. Do not risk your future by facing this challenge alone or with inadequate representation. If you are searching for a Statesboro or Reidsville DUI defense lawyer who will fight tirelessly for you, your search ends here. Contact Joseph Williams Law today for a confidential case evaluation. Let us put our experience, dedication, and focused expertise to work for you.