DUI Defense
Many people charged with a DUI feel like they have no options. No matter the circumstances, you can build a strong defense that protects your rights and your future.
Start Building Your Defense Now
Attorney PJ Campanaro has more than 20 years of legal experience, including time as both a prosecutor and litigator. She has seen what works in DUI cases and how law enforcement can make serious mistakes with evidence. From the office in Evans, she defends clients throughout the Augusta-Aiken area.
She and her team examine how evidence was handled, how sobriety tests were administered and every other detail of your arrest. The firm represents clients charged with:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Boating under the influence
- DUI involving commercial drivers
The Consequences Of A DUI In Georgia
Under Georgia Code § 40-6-391, you can be charged with DUI if your blood alcohol content is .08% or higher, or lower if there is evidence of impaired driving. Penalties for a first offense can include:
- Fines between $300 and $1,000
- At least 24 hours in jail, with sentences up to 12 months
- At least 40 hours of community service
- Mandatory DUI Risk Reduction Program (DUI School)
- Probation for up to 12 months, minus any jail time served
- Driver's license suspension
Penalties increase for repeat offenses within 10 years. A fourth offense is a felony, and aggravating factors such as a child under 14 in the vehicle or an accident causing serious injury can lead to harsher charges.
Act Within 30 Days
Time matters after a DUI arrest. Important first steps include:
- Filing an appeal within 30 days to prevent an automatic license suspension
- Preserving evidence from the night of your arrest, including witness statements and video
- Reviewing the police report for errors or inconsistencies
- Requesting a hearing to challenge breath, blood or roadside test results
Strategic Defense Techniques
- Challenging field sobriety test results
- Challenging breath test results due to police error or calibration issues
- Challenging rights violations, such as an illegal traffic stop
Impairment is often a judgment call by an officer. Was the driver actually impaired, or was it sickness or fatigue? You may have more defense options than you think.
Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL)
Georgia sets the BAC limit for commercial drivers at .04%. Even a first offense can mean a one-year CDL disqualification, and a second can mean losing your CDL for life.
Experienced DUI Representation
Admitted to the State Bar of Georgia in 2004, attorney Campanaro has handled many DUI cases across the CSRA and has years of experience in jury and bench trials. She will guide you through hearings, negotiations and trial if needed.
Ready to Learn More?
Schedule your free consultation at the Evans office by calling 706-821-2222 or reaching out online.