Savannah DUI Lawyer

DUI Attorney in Savannah, GA

About Us

At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., we bring together firsthand prosecutorial experience and an unwavering dedication to defending our clients throughout Georgia. As former prosecutors, we’ve worked on both sides of the courtroom, giving us rare insight into how cases are constructed. This enables us to anticipate challenges and craft strategic, effective responses.

We prioritize clear, straightforward communication, keeping our clients informed and empowered at every stage of the legal process. When the situation demands it, we act decisively and aggressively to protect your rights, always standing firmly by your side to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system with precision and determination.

Common Types of DUI Cases We Handle

At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., our experienced Savannah DUI attorneys understand that every DUI situation is unique, and that Georgia’s DUI laws apply differently depending on the circumstances. No matter the situation, our goal is to protect your rights, challenge questionable evidence, and pursue the most favorable outcome. Some of the most common types of DUI cases we handle include:

• First-time DUI offenses
• Second-time DUI offenses
• Third-time DUI offenses
• DUI Less Safe cases
• Felony DUI offenses
• High BAC offenses
• Underage DUI cases
• DUI with accident cases
• DUI Drugs (DUID)

DUI accusations come in many forms, but no matter the circumstances, you deserve a dedicated legal advocate who understands the nuances of DUI cases in Georgia. As trusted Savannah DUI attorneys, Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C. provides strategic, detail-oriented representation tailored to your situation. If you’re facing any type of DUI charge, our team is ready to stand by your side and fight for the most favorable outcome possible.

The Importance of BAC in Savannah DUI Cases

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) plays a central role in nearly every DUI case in Georgia. Your BAC measures the amount of alcohol in your bloodstream, and Georgia’s DUI laws set legal limits that determine if you can be charged. A BAC of 0.08% or higher for drivers over 21 typically results in a DUI charge, while lower or higher levels can influence penalties, probation requirements, and sentencing.

At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., we recognize that BAC is more than just a number; it can determine the trajectory of your DUI case. That’s why we analyze the results, the testing methods, and the circumstances surrounding your arrest to build a defense strategy that protects your rights and your future.

Savannah, Georgia DUI Attorney

Millions of people visit Savannah each year to take in the sights of its Historic District, one of the largest of its kind in the nation and designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1966. There is nothing like the eighteenth- and nineteenth-century architecture, such as the Juliette Gordon Low Historic District, dedicated to the founder of the Girl Scouts of the United States of America, and 22 shaded squares, including Emmett Park, which is by the riverfront.

There really are so many fun things to do for residents and visitors alike. That being the case, folks tend to have a little too much fun, especially since this beautiful city is an open container town. Despite the large availability of transportation services, DUIs are still a common occurrence. DUIs account for 30% of all traffic fatalities, and drunk driving offenses accounted for 11.2% of all arrests in Georgia in 2024, which equaled just over 12,000 offenders.

Fortunately, the team at Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., is standing by to help anyone who has recently been charged with a DUI. In addition, if you or a loved one suffers from substance abuse and has been arrested for a drug-related DUI (a DUID), one of our experienced Savannah, GA drug lawyers can do everything possible for you to avoid serving a jail sentence of 12 months or more.

Open Container Laws in Savannah, Georgia

The open container law prohibits an alcoholic beverage container that contains any amount of alcoholic beverage from being inside a moving vehicle. This includes containers with broken seals or containers that have had the alcohol partially removed in a vehicle on the roadway or shoulder of any public highway.

Potential Penalties for a DUI Charge in Savannah

Being charged with a DUI in Savannah can be overwhelming, especially with how tough Georgia’s DUI laws can be. Many people aren’t sure what to expect or how serious the consequences might be, but they include:

• The first DUI conviction in Georgia results in a possible jail sentence of one year, with fines from $300 to $1,000. Your driver’s license will be suspended for up to one year, and you will also receive 40 hours of mandatory community service. To have your driver’s license reinstated, you will need to pay a reinstatement fee. Drivers who are under 21 must delay obtaining their graduated driver’s license for 12 months.
• A second DUI conviction in Georgia results in a mandatory jail sentence minimum of 48 hours; however, you could receive from 90 days to 1 year in jail. Fines could range from $600 to $1,000. You will also receive a driver’s license suspension for a period of 3 years and a minimum of 30 days of community service.
• A third DUI conviction in Georgia results in a mandatory 15 days in jail, with fines from $1,000 to $5,000. Your driver’s license will be revoked for 5 years, and you will serve a mandatory 30 days of community service. The violator’s name, photo, and address will be published in a local newspaper at the violator’s expense.

While a DUI charge can bring heavy consequences, it’s important to remember that the situation isn’t hopeless. By working with a knowledgeable Savannah DUI attorney who understands how DUI laws apply to your specific situation, you can take control of your case. Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C. is committed to guiding clients through their DUI cases with care, clarity, and experienced legal support.

DUI Less Safe Charges

Many people mistakenly believe that their blood alcohol level must be above .08 before they can be charged with a DUI. This is not the case. In Georgia, driving with any amount of alcohol or drugs — prescription or illegal — in your system can expose you to criminal liability under the state’s “DUI Less Safe” laws.

A DUI Less Safe charge is just as serious as a regular DUI. The only difference is in how the state proves its case. If convicted, you face many of the same criminal penalties associated with a traditional DUI, including jail time, fines, license suspension, community service, and alcohol education classes.

After being charged with a DUI Less Safe, you only have 10 days to request an administrative license hearing. Failure to do so will result in the suspension of your license for one year.

Proving Impairment

To prove your driving was impaired, the state does not need to have a breath or blood test. Instead, the case can be proved based on the police officer’s observations, such as bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, confusion, and the smell of alcohol on your breath.

The first step in your defense is to examine the circumstances surrounding your arrest. If police lacked probable cause to pull you over, failed to follow DUI checkpoint guidelines, or ignored your constitutional rights, we will fight to have your case thrown out. We then attack the state’s evidence and build strong defenses that show you were not impaired.

Felony DUI in Savannah DUI Cases

In Georgia, DUIs may be charged as felony-level offenses. If you have multiple prior offenses or caused an accident that resulted in serious bodily injury or death to another, or if you caused property damage, you can be charged with a felony DUI. DUI cases involving serious injuries can lead to enhanced penalties and felony charges. The penalties associated with a felony DUI are serious and long-reaching. Penalties include:

• Mandatory 90 days in prison
• A one-to-five-year prison sentence
• Fines up to $5,000
• Completion of an alcohol or drug education program
• Clinical evaluation
• 60 days of community service
• Up to five years of probation

With an experienced Savannah DUI attorney from Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C. by your side, you gain an advocate who understands the complexities of DUI laws and knows how to challenge evidence, explore defenses, and protect your rights.

DUI Drugs (DUID) in Savannah

Many people are surprised to realize that the law on Driving Under the Influence not only applies to alcohol, but also applies to drugs. No matter what substance influences you, from beer to wine to marijuana or prescription drugs, you can be found guilty of drunk driving in Georgia as long as your normal faculties are impaired. DUI drug charges can involve many different substances:

• Marijuana
• Cocaine
• Heroin
• Prescription anti-anxiety medications, like Klonopin or Valium
• Prescription painkillers, like OxyContin or Vicodin
• Prescription anti-addiction drugs, like Suboxone or Methadone

A conviction for DUID has similar penalties as an alcohol based drunk driving conviction. Victims could also face other criminal charges, such as possession of drugs.

DUID Punishment in Savannah

Being charged with a DUI involving drugs (DUID) in Georgia is a serious matter that carries significant consequences. Unlike alcohol-related DUIs, these cases often involve complex toxicology reports, officer observations, and testing, making the legal process more complicated. Penalties can include:

• First and second time offenses are misdemeanors, punishable by up to one year in jail, fines up to $1,000, community service, alcohol education classes, license suspension, and possible probation.
• Third time and subsequent offenses may be charged as a felony. Penalties include fines of up to $5,000, up to 5 years in prison, community service, and alcohol education classes.
• Under Georgia’s implied consent laws, you’re required to take a blood or breath test. Refusal to do so results in an automatic license suspension. Your license suspension may last for one year or longer, depending on the number of your prior refusals.

The penalties for a DUID can have lasting effects on your freedom, driving privileges, and future opportunities. However, with experienced guidance, these consequences can sometimes be minimized or challenged. Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C. provides dedicated representation for clients facing DUID charges, carefully reviewing each case and building a defense tailored to the specific circumstances.

Common Defense Strategies for DUI Cases

Every DUI case is unique, and the right defense strategy depends on the facts surrounding your arrest. Our experienced Savannah DUI attorneys know how to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and use them to your advantage. Some common defense strategies include:

• Challenging the traffic stop: If law enforcement didn’t have a valid reason to pull you over, we can move to suppress the evidence they collected.
• Questioning field sobriety tests: These tests are subjective and can be affected by weather, medical conditions, or improper administration.
• Challenging chemical test results: Breathalyzers and blood tests must be properly calibrated and handled. Mistakes in testing can create room for doubt.
• Reviewing officer conduct: Any procedural or constitutional violations during your arrest can provide a strong defense.
• Negotiating reduced charges: In some cases, plea agreements can reduce the severity of penalties while also protecting your driving record.

At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., we tailor our defense approach to each client, examining every detail of the arrest and evidence. Our experienced team is dedicated to protecting your rights while pursuing the most favorable outcome possible.

Look Back Periods in Savannah DUI Cases

Law enforcement can also look back at a driver’s DUI record up to 10 years in the past for repeat convictions. The law in Georgia doesn’t allow an attorney to talk a DUI/DWI charge down to a “wet reckless,” as is possible in many other states.

A wet reckless charge is a reduced plea arrangement, typically for first-time offenders, that carries fewer penalties and repercussions than a DUI or DWI. However, an attorney may be able to reduce DUI penalties without changing the conviction.

Sobriety Checkpoints in Chatham County

Under state and federal law, Georgia is one of 38 states in America where sobriety checkpoints are legal (see 318 S.E.2d 693 (Ga. App. Ct. 1984)). The locations for these stops are temporary, but there are websites that track where they have already occurred and where they might occur.

Even though many believe that probable cause under the Fourth Amendment is needed for a traffic stop, sobriety checkpoints are an exception to this rule since the Supreme Court ruled in 1990 that the dangers of drunk driving outweigh the intrusion caused by checkpoints.

Field Sobriety Tests in Chatham County, Georgia

Field sobriety tests and breathalyzer tests are central to most DUI investigations in Savannah, Georgia. When a police officer suspects a driver of being under the influence, these tests are often the first step in building a case for DUI charges. However, both types of tests are far from infallible, and a knowledgeable DUI defense attorney can use their experience to challenge the results and protect your legal rights.

Field sobriety tests are designed to assess a driver’s physical and cognitive abilities, but their reliability is often questioned. Factors like poor lighting, uneven road surfaces, medical conditions, or even nervousness can lead to inaccurate results. If a police officer fails to properly instruct you or lacks adequate training, the validity of these tests can be called into question.

Breathalyzer Tests

Breathalyzer tests measure your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), and they’re another critical component in DUI cases. Under Georgia DUI laws, a BAC at or above the legal limit can result in immediate DUI charges, but these machines are not foolproof.

Issues such as improper calibration, faulty equipment, or lack of maintenance can lead to inaccurate readings. A skilled DUI defense lawyer will examine maintenance records and the arresting officer’s procedures to identify any discrepancies that could lead to the suppression of breath test results.

DRR Convictions in Savannah, Georgia

If you have been convicted in Georgia of an alcohol or drug-related driving or boating offense and had your license revoked, you must complete a DUI, Alcohol or Drug Use Risk Reduction (DRR) course before you can have your license reinstated. The program is regulated by the Georgia Department of Driver Services, but the courses are administered by independent, state-certified “DUI schools.” The DRR programs are required for those convicted of:

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
• Possession of illegal drugs
• A minor operating a vehicle while having possession of alcohol
• Operating a boat while under the Influence (BUI)
• The DRR program is made up of two components, an assessment and an intervention. The assessment is a comprehensive, 130-question instrument for adults. This questionnaire is used to assess the individual’s drug or alcohol use.

The intervention portion is a 20-hour course that spans multiple days. This is done in a group setting and is designed to offer peer group counseling and therapeutic education about the effects of drug and alcohol use on driving.

These courses have strict attendance policies. If you’ve been convicted of two or more DUIs in the last 10 years, in addition to completing a DRR, you will need to provide evidence of having completed a state-approved clinical evaluation to reinstate your suspended Georgia driver’s license or driving privileges.

DUI Intervention Programs in Chatham County

The DUI Intervention Program (DUIIP) was designed to help “improve public health and promote greater safety on the highways and streets of Georgia.” The risk reduction course is mandated by law for those convicted of drug or alcohol use involving driving or boating, and is mandatory for drivers who have been convicted of multiple DUIs within a 5-year period.

It offers “therapeutic education” for drivers who have made “high-risk drinking choices,” or in other words, they have chosen to drive intoxicated. This part of the program is designed for drivers who don’t suffer from substance abuse or alcoholism. The program consists of two parts: an assessment component and an intervention component. Both components must be completed to obtain the certificate of completion, which is required to reinstate a license.

The assessment component consists of a 130-question assessment to measure the extent of drug and alcohol use and help the participant understand how it affects their driving. The intervention component is a 20-hour course given over several days. It has group sessions offering peer group counseling and education about alcohol and drug use and its effect on driving, and is designed to change that behavior.

Deadlines to Be Aware of in Savannah DUI Cases

If you’re facing a DUI charge in Savannah, staying on top of important deadlines is very important. Missing a key date can have serious consequences, from losing the chance to challenge your license suspension to limiting your defense options in court. Georgia has strict timelines, and understanding them is essential for protecting your rights. Some key deadlines include:

• Administrative license suspension hearings: You generally have 30 days from your arrest to request a hearing to contest a license suspension.
• Court filings: Certain motions and legal challenges must be submitted within strict timeframes. Missing these can limit your defense options.
• Statute of limitations: Georgia law sets time limits for filing criminal charges, though DUI charges are typically pursued quickly.

Meeting these deadlines is critical. At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., we make it a priority to track every critical date and make sure all filings are made on time. By working with our local Savannah DUI attorneys, you gain peace of mind knowing your case is being managed carefully, giving you the strongest chance to protect your driving privileges and your future.

Hire a DUI Lawyer

When you’re facing a DUI charge in Savannah, hiring an experienced  DUI attorney who knows the local courts can make a real difference to the outcome of your case. At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., we bring extensive experience navigating DUI laws and defending clients in Savannah.

Why Local Representation Matters

We regularly practice in Savannah’s key courthouses, including the Chatham County Courthouse, the Savannah Municipal Court, and the South Broad Street Judicial Complex. Because of this, we understand what resonates with local judges, local prosecutors, and local juries, and we use that knowledge to build strong, strategic defenses for every client.

This local presence allows us to meet deadlines, attend hearings, and maintain strong relationships with court staff, advantages that out-of-town attorneys simply can’t match.

By working with us, you’re not just hiring a lawyer; you’re gaining a dedicated legal team that knows Savannah, that understands the local legal landscape, and that fights vigorously for your rights in every DUI case. We’re committed to providing personalized attention, aggressive advocacy, and practical guidance every step of the way, ensuring you have a good chance of protecting your record, your license, and your future.

FAQs

What Should I Do Immediately After Being Arrested for a DUI In Savannah?

Immediately after being arrested for a DUI in Savannah, you need to stay calm and comply with the instructions of law enforcement, but don’t make any self-incriminating statements. Then, contact an experienced Savannah DUI attorney from Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C. as soon as possible. You have only 30 days to file an appeal to prevent a potential license suspension, so the sooner you reach out, the sooner we can get to work.

What if I Refused a Breath or Blood Test During My DUI Arrest?

If you refused a breath or blood test during your DUI arrest, Georgia’s implied consent laws are triggered, which can result in an automatic license suspension. This license suspension remains in effect even if you’re found not guilty or if your case is dismissed. Refusal doesn’t guarantee a conviction. In many DUI cases, our team can challenge whether the officer properly informed you of implied consent rights or followed required procedures.

How Long Do DUI Cases Typically Take to Resolve?

The time it takes to resolve a DUI case varies depending on how complicated the case is, the schedule of the court, and whether the case goes to trial. Some DUI cases resolve quickly, while others could take longer. At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., our dedicated Savannah DUI attorneys keep you informed at every stage of the DUI process.

Do I Have to Appear in Court for My DUI Case?

Yes, you must appear at least once in court for your DUI case. This is for the arraignment, when your charges are officially read to you by the judge. However, your attorney might be able to appear on your behalf for certain preliminary hearings or administrative matters. Court appearances are serious events, and missing one can result in additional charges or a warrant being issued for your arrest.

Don’t Surrender Your Rights

Too many people who are arrested and charged with DUI surrender their rights by automatically pleading guilty. The reality is that being arrested doesn’t necessarily mean you’re guilty, and a lot of people are wrongfully charged with DUIs.

At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., we fight for our clients and advocate for them at every stage of the process. From reviewing evidence to challenging procedures, negotiating reduced charges, and representing you in court, we are committed to protecting your rights and your future.

Let us analyze your case and assist you in defending yourself to ensure that you are not unfairly convicted of a DUI. If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, contact the attorneys at Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C. today at (912) 396-5704 for a free consultation.

Court Offices In or Near Savannah, Georgia

Chatham County Recorders Court
Chatham County State Court
Chatham County Superior Court
Chatham County Magistrate Court