In Georgia, the penalties for being convicted of two DUIs within a 5-year period are automatically enhanced as required by Georgia law. The mandatory minimum sentence required is as follows:

• 12 months in custody- all but 72 hours of this may be probated
• $600 fine plus any surcharges
• 240 hours of community service
• A clinical drug and alcohol evaluation and any treatment recommended by the evaluation
• Completion of the DDS risk reduction program
• Completion of a victim impact panel

Implications for an individual’s driver license are also enhanced and include:

• An 18-month total license suspension
• The first 120 days is a hard suspension
• The next 12 months require the installation of an ignition interlock device and a limited permit that allows you to drive to school, work, medical appointments, or court ordered appointments
• The ignition interlock device may be removed for the remaining 2 months but the limited permit remains in place

As you can see, the stakes are very high when you are charged with a second DUI within a 5-year period. It is imperative that you hire a knowledgeable lawyer to help you defend your case. If you find yourself charged with a second DUI within a 5-year period, call the experienced lawyers at W. Scott Smith, PC today for a free consultation.