Savannah License Suspension Lawyer

Driving is a privilege, not a right. In Georgia, there are many ways you can lose your driving privileges. DUI charges, driving without insurance, and other traffic infractions can result in a suspended license. At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., our Savannah, GA license suspension lawyers understand how difficult it is to earn a living and live your life without a driver’s license. It is crucial to involve legal counsel from the very beginning of your license suspension or DUI case to ensure your rights are protected and to build a strong defense from the outset.

Our Savannah criminal defense lawyers do everything in their power to protect our clients’ licenses and restore their driving privileges as quickly as possible. We offer free consultations and case evaluations to help you understand your options and the best course of action. Our team is available during regular working hours and remains committed to being accessible to clients whenever they need support. Located in Savannah, our firm represents clients in coastal South Georgia, including students at local colleges and universities, and military and naval personnel at bases throughout the region.

You can trust our experience and dedication to provide personalized attention and effective legal strategies for your case. For inquiries or to request a case evaluation, please email us at info@jarrettmaillet.com.

The Administrative Hearing Process

The administrative hearing process is a critical opportunity for individuals in Savannah facing license suspension after being arrested for DUI. When you are pulled over and charged, you have only 30 days to request an administrative hearing to fight the automatic suspension of your driver’s license. This hearing is separate from your criminal case and is often the first step in fighting to keep your driving privileges.

At this stage, having a skilled Savannah DUI lawyer by your side is essential. Your attorney will evaluate the facts of your case, including the circumstances of your arrest, the officer’s actions, and the accuracy of any breath or blood test results. They will determine whether the officer had probable cause to stop you and whether all legal requirements were met during your arrest. In many cases, challenging the validity of the stop or the evidence presented can make a significant difference in the outcome.

The administrative hearing itself is your chance to present your side and fight the license suspension. Your lawyer will help you prepare by gathering evidence, reviewing the details of your case, and developing a strong defense strategy. During the hearing, your attorney will present arguments to the judge, question the officer’s testimony, and work to obtain a dismissal or reduction of the suspension. If the judge upholds the suspension, your lawyer can help determine if you are eligible for a limited driving permit so you can continue to work and meet essential needs.

Most cases hinge on the details—such as the accuracy of the breath or blood test, the validity of the traffic stop, and the officer’s adherence to procedure. A dedicated Savannah DUI lawyer will fight to protect your rights, minimize the risk of losing your license, and help you understand every option available. They can also assist with negotiating plea deals, filing pre-trial motions, and representing you in court if necessary.

If you are facing a license suspension, don’t risk losing your ability to drive and the impact it can have on your job and daily life. Contact a trusted Savannah DUI lawyer today to schedule a confidential consultation. Begin fighting your charge with the help of an attorney who will work tirelessly to protect your driving privileges and your future.

A law in Georgia recently went into effect that helps drivers who have multiple DUI convictions, but it comes with a major catch. The law permits drivers convicted of a second offense to receive a conditional driver’s license, but only if they meet certain requirements. Regaining your driver’s license after a second conviction is crucial, as it directly impacts your ability to work and maintain daily responsibilities. A less safe DUI lawyer can help you understand these requirements and guide you through the legal process to ensure you meet the conditions necessary to restore your driver’s license and driving privileges.

These restrictions allow drivers to obtain the license 120 days after conviction, but only if they attend an alcohol education course and install an ignition interlock device. The provisional license would only let drivers travel to specific destinations, such as their place of employment. The law went into effect because many individuals convicted of at least two DUI offenses lost their jobs or experienced other significant hardships due to the loss of a driver’s license. Winning an ALS hearing in Georgia requires a strong defense strategy, which can involve questioning the legality of the traffic stop, challenging the validity of the chemical test, or identifying any procedural mistakes made by law enforcement during the arrest.

FAQ: License Suspension for DUI in Savannah, GA

How long will my license be suspended after a DUI in Savannah?

The length of your license suspension in Savannah depends on several factors, including whether this is your first offense and whether you refused chemical testing. For a first DUI offense, you may face a one-year administrative license suspension if you refuse a breath or blood test, or a suspension of at least 120 days if you take the test and fail. However, you may be eligible for a limited driving permit after serving a portion of your suspension. A qualified Savannah DUI attorney can help you understand your specific situation and explore options to restore your driving privileges as quickly as possible, including requesting an administrative hearing within 30 days of your arrest.

Can I get a work permit if my license is suspended for DUI in Savannah?

Yes, Georgia law allows for limited driving permits (often called hardship licenses) that enable you to drive for essential purposes such as work, school, medical appointments, and court-ordered obligations. To obtain this permit, you typically must install an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle and complete a DUI risk reduction program. The eligibility requirements and waiting periods vary depending on whether this is your first or subsequent offense. Working with an experienced Savannah DUI attorney is crucial because they can guide you through the permit application process, ensure you meet all requirements, and represent you at your administrative license suspension hearing to potentially avoid or minimize the suspension period.

What happens if I drive on a suspended license after a DUI in Savannah?

Driving on a suspended license in Georgia is a serious criminal offense that carries significant penalties. If caught driving while your license is suspended due to a DUI, you could face misdemeanor charges resulting in jail time ranging from 2 days to 12 months, additional fines up to $1,000, and an extension of your license suspension period. For repeat offenses, the penalties become even more severe. These charges will appear on your criminal record and can affect your employment, insurance rates, and future ability to regain your driving privileges. If you’re facing a suspended license or have been charged with driving on a suspended license, consulting with a Savannah DUI attorney immediately is essential to protect your rights and minimize the impact on your future.