Additional Consequences for a DUI Conviction in Cobb County

If you or a loved one have been charged with DUI in Cobb County Ga, it is critical that you contact an experienced DUI Attorney as soon as possible. Even a first time DUI charge can have serious repercussions. In addition to the typical penalties that a court can impose in terms of fines or jail time, there are other consequences, which most people don't even consider at the time. When you have been charged with DUI, contact our DUI Lawyers in Cobb County. We will evaluate your case and discuss your options with you as well as the potential penalties.

DUI Penalties in Cobb County GA

The majority of people are aware that a DUI conviction may have expensive fines and jail time associated with it. However, they are often caught by surprise at how many other consequences can accompany a DUI conviction. At Lawson and Berry, our Cobb County DUI Lawyers want to be upfront about all the penalties you are facing and how they could impact your life. The following are some additional consequences if you are convicted of DUI.

Out of Country Travel: Some countries, including Canada, will not allow people who have been convicted of a DUI to enter. This is a significant problem for those who travel to Canada for business because there is not a business exemption. However, you will not be allowed in for vacation. Canada is not the only country with this rule, so having a DUI conviction on your record can make travel difficult.

College: If you receive an underage DUI and are applying for college, most universities take a serious look at criminal records. You may be denied admission because of that charge. In other cases, scholarship or grant eligibility may be greatly diminished, and existing scholarships can be taken away for DUI convictions. If you were over 21 and are thinking of going back to school, a DUI conviction can still have an impact. It can make it difficult to be accepted or to obtain scholarships.

Job: Even though DUI charges are relatively common, that does not mean employers have thoroughly accepted them. Most employers run background checks on employees and we have seen people lose their jobs because of a DUI conviction.

Ignition Interlock Device: You have the option to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle to avoid the automatic suspension of your license. However, after a second DUI conviction, the ignition interlock device is mandatory. The device typically costs $150 upfront plus a $75.00 a month in addition to any maintenance expenses. It is important to weigh these costs when trying to decide between installing the device or filing for an ALS hearing.

Additional Expenses: Other than the court fines and surcharges, there are additional expenses that can quickly add up. One example is if convicted of DUI, or participating in a diversion program, a judge may require that you participate in a drug and alcohol risk reduction course. These courts cost $355.00. If you receive probation, you will be required to pay a monthly monitoring fee and pay for random urine or blood tests. If your license is suspended, you will have to pay a reinstatement fee. There are numerous expenses other than court costs that can make a DUI expensive.

Car Rental: Most car rental companies run driver's license checks on prospective customers in an effort to minimize their losses. If you have a DUI or multiple traffic violations on your driving record, it can make it difficult to rent a vehicle.

Car Insurance: A DUI on your driving record could double or triple your insurance premiums. Some insurance companies will drop you as a customer and refused to insure you if you have a DUI or multiple other traffic violations. This will force your insurance to become very expensive but also force you to choose lesser insurance companies to insure you.

Why Hiring a Cobb County DUI Lawyer is Worth It?

Many people think DUI fines are expensive and don't want to spend the extra money hiring a lawyer. Not hiring a lawyer could cost you a lot more in the long run. Our team of experienced DUI Attorneys in Cobb County will ensure your rights were protected before, during, and after arrest. We will use every tool we have to reduce the amount of penalties you face, which in turn, will save you money! Call now and find out how our team will make a huge difference in the outcome of your case.