DUI Attorney in Hinesville

Facing a DUI in Hinesville? Get Trusted Legal Defense Today

A DUI charge in Hinesville can impact your daily life—your freedom to drive, your job, and your personal reputation are at risk. When you choose Schneider Lerch, LLC for DUI defense, you receive guidance from a dedicated team that knows Georgia DUI laws and cares about protecting your future.

Local law enforcement and the Liberty County Sheriff's Office maintain a strong presence along highways and busy routes in Hinesville. Police officers enforce Georgia's DUI laws actively, which means drivers face checkpoints and roadside stops throughout the area. 

Our lawyers understand the local procedures and common issues in Liberty County courts. This knowledge helps us guide you through every legal step and anticipate challenges specific to DUI cases in Hinesville.

Secure the insight of former prosecutors for your defense. Contact a Hinesville DUI defense lawyer at (912) 417-5008 or online. We offer free consultations and 24/7 availability.

Understanding Georgia’s DUI Law

Georgia law defines DUI broadly, allowing a prosecutor to seek a conviction under multiple theories of impairment. A conviction can be based on either a violation of the "Per Se" limit or the subjective "Less Safe" standard.

The Two Theories of DUI Prosecution

• "Per Se" Impairment: This is based purely on chemical evidence. A driver is guilty if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is $0.08$ grams or more within three hours of driving. For drivers under 21, the limit is stricter: $0.02$ or more (O.C.G.A. $\S 40-6-391(k)$).
• "Less Safe" Impairment: This is a subjective standard. A driver is guilty if they are "under the influence of alcohol or any drug to the extent that it is less safe" for them to drive. This allows the State to pursue a conviction even if the BAC is below $0.08$, relying instead on the officer's observations and Field Sobriety Test performance.

A skilled Hinesville DUI defense lawyer challenges both theories, attacking the subjective opinion of the officer as well as the scientific reliability of the chemical tests.

The Dual Battle: Criminal Court vs. Administrative Suspension (ALS)

A Georgia DUI arrest triggers two separate but equally serious legal processes that must be handled at the same time.

1. The Criminal Case (Jail, Fines, Probation):

This is the misdemeanor or felony case heard in the State or Superior Court of Liberty County. Penalties increase with each offense within a 10-year period.

• First DUI: 10 days to 12 months in jail (may be served on probation); fines between $300 and $1,000; includes 40 hours of community service and mandatory DUI School (Risk Reduction Program).
• Second DUI: Minimum mandatory 90 days in jail (can be reduced to 15 days jail plus probation); fines between $600 and $1,000; 30 days of community service and Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 12 months.
• Third DUI: Minimum mandatory 120 days in jail (can be reduced to 90 days jail plus probation); fines between $1,000 and $5,000; Habitual Violator status, mandatory IID, and 5-year license revocation.
• Fourth DUI: Classified as a felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in state prison and fines between $1,000 and $5,000, with mandatory prison time.

2. The Administrative License Suspension (ALS) Hearing

This is the administrative action against your driving privilege, separate from the criminal case. It is triggered if you:

• Refuse the chemical test requested by the officer; OR
• Submit to the test and the result is over the legal limit ($0.08$ for adults, $0.02$ for under 21).
• THE 30-DAY RULE: You have only 30 days from the date of your arrest to file a formal request for an Administrative Hearing with the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). If we fail to file this request on time, your license will automatically be suspended for a full year with no opportunity for a limited driving permit (for a refusal). As your DUI attorney in Hinesville, we file this appeal immediately to protect your driving rights.

Our Firm’s Unique Former Prosecutor Advantage

When facing a Georgia DUI charge, the most powerful tool you can have is a defense team that understands the prosecution's training manuals and legal vulnerabilities. At Schneider Lerch, LLC, we utilize our experience as former prosecutors to expose flaws in the State’s case.

• Challenging Probable Cause for the Stop: Police officers must have reasonable suspicion to stop a vehicle and probable cause to make an arrest. We meticulously challenge the initial traffic stop, examining the police report and video evidence to determine if the stop was illegal, which would result in the suppression of all evidence.
• Implied Consent Violation: The officer must read the Georgia Implied Consent Notice verbatim and in a timely manner. Any mistake, deviation, or delay in reading this notice can lead to the suppression of the chemical test results (breath, blood, or urine). Our firm aggressively cross-examines the officer at the ALS hearing on this exact procedure.
• Attacking Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs): FSTs are subjective and easily swayed by factors like weather, road conditions, medical history, or the accused’s footwear. We argue that the officer's interpretation of these tests was unreliable and biased. Our firm knows the training standards used by the State and can expose when officers fail to adhere to them.
• Challenging the Intoxilyzer 5000/9000: The breath test machine is subject to strict maintenance and calibration rules. We challenge the scientific validity of the result based on issues like the machine's maintenance log, the officer's certification, or the presence of "mouth alcohol" that artificially inflated the BAC result.

Why Clients Trust Our Team for DUI Defense

When facing a DUI charge, people turn to Schneider Lerch, LLC for more than representation—we deliver support, guidance, and a genuine commitment to your case. Our approach sets us apart as a trusted DUI attorney in Hinesville:

• Experience throughout Coastal Georgia: Our legal team has managed thousands of criminal defense cases, including many DUI matters in Hinesville.
• Personalized attention: We listen closely, answer your questions, and keep you informed at every stage.
• Local knowledge: We understand courtroom processes and local law enforcement practices in Hinesville and surrounding Liberty County.
• Strong defense strategies: We create a tailored defense for each case. Every client’s situation is unique, so we draw on our experience and the facts to build your best approach.
• Readiness for court: We prepare thoroughly for trial and make sure your side of the story is heard, when needed.
• Accessible support: You start with a free consultation and clear communication from day one.

We believe communication and individualized support make a difference in every DUI case. From your first call through to resolution, you can rely on us to explain your legal options clearly and provide updates. Our detailed approach ensures you have the information needed to make confident decisions about your defense, protecting both your record and your peace of mind.

Take the First Step Toward Your DUI Defense

Every DUI case deserves attention, skill, and a personalized approach. Contact Schneider Lerch, LLC now to schedule your free consultation with a DUI attorney in Hinesville. You will get honest answers, a straightforward review of your options, and guidance focused on protecting your rights and driving privileges. 

Let us help you make informed choices for your future—reach out at (912) 417-5008 or fill out this online form today to discuss your case with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do after a DUI arrest?

Stay calm and cooperate with law enforcement. Do not admit guilt or answer questions about drinking, and ask to speak with a DUI lawyer right away to discuss your next steps and protect your rights.

How soon do I need to take action after my DUI arrest?

You have 15 days from your arrest date to request a license hearing in Georgia. If you do not act within this window, you may lose your driving privileges automatically.

Can my DUI charges be reduced or dismissed?

Outcomes depend on the details and evidence in your case. Your attorney can evaluate options for your defense and advise you about possible resolutions based on Georgia DUI law and local court practices.

Will I lose my driver's license if I’m convicted?

A DUI conviction can lead to license suspension. Your unique record, the facts of your arrest, and your actions afterward all play a role in determining the outcome.

How does a DUI conviction affect my criminal record?

A DUI conviction stays permanently on your Georgia criminal record, which can impact job prospects, insurance costs, and your future. Early legal action may minimize these effects.

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