Chatham County DUI Lawyer

25+ Years of Strategic & Aggressive Defense Against DUI Charges

Facing a DUI charge in Chatham County is a moment few people are prepared for. The possibility of losing your license, paying steep fines, or facing jail time can feel overwhelming. The process itself often moves quickly, and without guidance, it is easy to feel like the system is working against you.

At Schneider Lerch, LLC, we know this is not just a legal case but a deeply personal challenge. For more than 25 years, our attorneys have defended individuals accused of DUI across Chatham County. We approach every case with focus and determination, protecting your rights and ensuring your voice is heard. Our role is to be your advocate at a time when you need one most.

Begin preparing your defense against DUI charges. Call (912) 417-5008 or contact us online right away to request a free consultation. 

How Our Chatham County DUI Lawyers Support You at Every Turn

DUI cases in Georgia involve more than a single court date. From administrative hearings about your license to court proceedings that can affect your record for years, each stage carries consequences. We provide comprehensive representation designed to support you from the start of your case until its resolution.

We assist clients with:

• Early guidance after arrest: We immediately explain the charges you are facing, the bond conditions that apply, and the deadlines you cannot afford to miss so that you understand your position from day one.
• Administrative License Suspension hearings: We represent you before the Department of Driver Services and argue against the suspension of your driver’s license, working to preserve your ability to keep driving.
• Evidence review: We thoroughly evaluate police reports, videos, and test results to identify any mistakes or inconsistencies that can strengthen your defense.
• Challenging test results: We analyze the way breath, blood, or urine tests were conducted and maintained, raising questions about accuracy whenever the procedures do not meet legal or scientific standards.
• Court representation: We stand beside you at every appearance, from arraignment to motions and through trial if necessary, making sure your rights are protected at all times.
• Exploring alternatives: We pursue options such as reduced charges, conditional driving permits, or sentencing alternatives when they provide a better path forward for your circumstances.

We Draw on Experience & Knowledge from Both Sides of the Court

One of our founding attorneys, Cris Schneider, previously served as a prosecutor with the District Attorney’s Offices in Bryan and McIntosh Counties. That experience informs the way our entire team approaches DUI defense.

Understanding how prosecutors prepare their cases allows us to anticipate the strategies they may rely on in court. While every attorney at Schneider Lerch, LLC contributes to your defense, Mr. Schneider’s background has shaped the firm’s approach, giving us insight into the methods the state uses and how best to respond. Clients benefit from that perspective across the board.

Powerful Defense Against a Variety of DUI Charges

Georgia law covers many forms of DUI, and each requires a defense strategy suited to the circumstances. At Schneider Lerch, LLC, we represent clients facing a wide range of allegations, including:

• DUI Manslaughter: Charges involving fatalities, carrying some of the most serious penalties under state law.
• DUI with Injury: Cases where an accident allegedly caused bodily harm to others.
• Out-of-State DUI: Defending non-residents whose Georgia arrest may affect their home state licenses.
• Commercial Driver DUI: Protecting the careers of CDL holders accused of impaired driving.
• DUI & Drugs: Addressing charges involving controlled substances or prescription medications.
• Felony DUI: Cases elevated due to aggravating circumstances or prior offenses.
• Multiple or Second DUI: Defending clients facing repeat allegations and heightened penalties.
• Underage DUI: Guiding drivers under 21 through Georgia’s strict zero-tolerance system.

Each case carries unique risks, and we build defenses to meet those specific challenges.

Protect your rights after a DUI arrest. Contact us online or call (912) 417-5008 today to arrange your free consultation.

Strategies for Building a Strong DUI Defense Case

A successful DUI defense is not about applying the same approach to every client. At Schneider Lerch, LLC, we tailor strategies based on the evidence, the procedures used during your arrest, and the circumstances of your case.

Our defense methods may include:

• Challenging the traffic stop. We examine whether the police had a lawful reason to pull you over, and if they did not, we move to have any evidence obtained afterward excluded from your case.
• Scrutinizing field sobriety tests. We review the way these tests were administered and point out how subjective observations or improper instructions may have led to unfair conclusions.
• Examining chemical testing. We investigate whether breathalyzers or blood draws were properly calibrated, whether the samples were handled according to required standards, and whether the results can be trusted.
• Reviewing officer conduct. We look closely at whether law enforcement officers followed the correct procedures and respected your constitutional rights at every stage of the arrest.
• Highlighting alternative explanations. We bring forward medical conditions, fatigue, or environmental factors that may explain alleged signs of impairment without pointing to alcohol or drugs.
• Pursuing mitigation. We advocate for reduced penalties, alternative sentencing programs, or license-related accommodations whenever the circumstances make them appropriate.

Award-Winning Representation Built Around Your Needs

Every aspect of our approach is designed to make legal representation as accessible and practical as possible. We make ourselves available around the clock for urgent concerns and questions. We also provide virtual consultations for clients who cannot easily travel to our office, and we offer free initial consultations so you can understand your options without financial pressure. 

Our commitment to clients has also been recognized by respected legal and professional organizations. Our attorneys have been included in The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers and hold a perfect 10 rating on Avvo for criminal defense. We have been named by Expertise.com as both Best DUI Lawyers in Savannah and Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Savannah in 2021. In addition, we are members of the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys, the National College for DUI Defense, and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

These honors reflect more than just titles. They represent the trust our peers and clients place in us, and they underscore our ongoing dedication to defending individuals charged with DUI in Chatham County with focus and care.

Client Testimonials & Case Results

At Schneider Lerch, LLC, we measure our success not only in courtroom outcomes but also in the trust and confidence our clients place in us. Many individuals we have represented in Chatham County share how our guidance helped them navigate one of the most difficult times in their lives.

We invite you to explore our case results to see examples of past DUI defenses we have handled, as well as our client reviews to hear directly from the people we have served. These pages provide insight into the level of advocacy and support you can expect when working with our firm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do first after a DUI arrest?

Contact us promptly. We can advise you on protecting your license, preparing for hearings, and avoiding steps that could harm your defense.

Will I lose my driver’s license if I’m arrested for DUI?

You may face an administrative suspension, separate from the criminal case. We handle these hearings and advocate to preserve your driving privileges when possible.

Are breathalyzer or blood test results always reliable?

Not necessarily. Errors in calibration, handling, or administration can make results inaccurate. Our attorneys review every detail to identify potential challenges.

How long will my case take?

Timeframes vary. Some cases resolve quickly, while others take months depending on evidence and court scheduling. We keep you informed at every stage.

What if I have prior DUI convictions?

Repeat offenses increase potential penalties. We focus on limiting their impact, evaluating whether prior convictions can be challenged, and pursuing defenses tailored to your record.

What are the penalties for a DUI conviction in Georgia?

A DUI conviction can bring fines, probation, mandatory alcohol education, community service, increased insurance costs, and even jail time.

Which courts in Chatham County handle DUI cases?

Depending on the circumstances, DUI charges may be heard in Savannah’s Recorder’s Court, Chatham County State Court, or Chatham County Superior Court. 

Discuss your defense with committed and seasoned DUI lawyers. Call (912) 417-5008 or reach out online today to schedule your free consultation.