Savannah DUI Attorney
Call (912) 493-9506 for a Free DUI Defense Consultation
DUI defense attorney Robert F. Pirkle brings over 35 years of legal experience to every case he takes on. As a seasoned litigator with experience both as a prosecutor and a defense lawyer, he applies his comprehensive knowledge to every case, including DUI and drunk driving charges in Savannah and across Southeast Georgia.
When law enforcement determines a driver has misused the privilege to drive, prosecutors often pursue the maximum penalties allowed by law. Georgia's Department of Driver Services may suspend or revoke your license if you are arrested for a DUI, refuse to take a chemical test, or face any DUI-related offense.
Why Choose Robert F. Pirkle for Your DUI Defense
- 1000's of criminal & DUI cases handled
- Proven results in & out of court
- Tenacious & customized defense
- Experience from both sides of the courtroom
Contact the firm at (912) 493-9506 to schedule a FREE consultation with our Savannah DUI attorneys.
DUI Defense Services We Handle in Savannah
What Are The Grounds for a DUI Arrest in Georgia?
Under O.C.G.A. 40-6-391, Georgia law prohibits operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substances. A driver cannot operate a vehicle if alcohol or drugs have made it less safe to drive. This law applies to illegal drugs and even prescription medications when used in a way that impairs your ability to drive safely.
For adults in Georgia, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is .08%. A person under the age of 21 faces a much lower limit of .02%, meaning a young driver could face conviction after minimal alcohol consumption.
What Are The Penalties for a First Offense DUI in Savannah?
Georgia courts do not treat DUI charges lightly. Lawmakers intended tough penalties to discourage dangerous and potentially deadly decisions. However, the harshness of these penalties can put first-time offenders at a disadvantage.
Penalties for First-Time DUI Offenders
- Jail sentence not exceeding 1 year
- Fines not exceeding $1,000
- Community services hours
- License reinstatement fees
- Probation-related consequences
Beyond the possibility of jail time or fines, a DUI conviction in Georgia often means a permanent criminal record and much higher insurance premiums. These consequences can follow you for years to come.
Savannah DUI cases typically go through the Chatham County State Court, which follows procedures unique to our local jurisdiction. Drivers have just 30 days after a DUI arrest to request an Administrative License Suspension (ALS) hearing to contest the pending loss of their license. If you miss this window, your license can be suspended even before any conviction. Having a legal team with local knowledge can be critical as the court reviews prior convictions and the specifics of your case to determine penalties. Skilled representation helps you navigate these tight deadlines and the details involved in Savannah DUI cases.
What Sets Us Apart
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Over 100 Jury Trials Involving Serious Crimes
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Free Initial Consultations Offered
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Highly Rated by Past Clients
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Success from Both Sides of Court
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Direct Attention from Your Attorney
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More Than 35 Years of Experience
How Often Do DUI Cases Get Dismissed in Georgia?
Studies show about 72% of fully reviewed DUI cases in Georgia end with dismissal or a reduction to a lesser charge before trial. Of the cases that do proceed to trial, about two-thirds end in an acquittal.
Our legal team at The Pirkle Law Firm can provide the investigation and support you need in your DUI case. We have the tools and resources that can prove what truly happened and work to protect your rights throughout the process.
Drivers in Savannah often ask about the chances for dismissal or reduction. Results depend heavily on your case’s facts, the evidence available, and the approach taken by the Chatham County State Court. Not every DUI in Savannah ends in a dismissal, but those who act quickly—such as by requesting an ALS hearing within 30 days—have more options for mounting a defense. Each case follows a legal process that includes arraignment, pretrial hearings, and various motions in Savannah courts. Knowing the procedures and deadlines involved may help support a more favorable outcome.
FAQs
What happens at a DUI arraignment in Chatham County?
At the arraignment, the judge will read your charges and ask how you plead. The court then schedules future court dates based on your plea and may discuss any conditions for your release.
How long does a DUI case take to resolve in Savannah?
The length of a DUI case varies. Some cases resolve quickly with plea agreements, while others take several months due to motions, hearings, or trial scheduling in the busy Chatham County courts.
Can I get my license back if it was suspended after a DUI arrest?
Driver's license reinstatement after a DUI suspension requires you to complete specific steps, such as finishing state-mandated programs and paying reinstatement fees. Meeting all conditions set by the Georgia Department of Driver Services is essential before applying for reinstatement.
Request Your Free Consultation with Our DUI Attorney in Savannah
Although you may be facing a stressful time, you do not have to navigate the process alone. Rest assured, The Pirkle Law Firm has the skills, resources, and years of experience to address even the most challenging DUI cases.
Call the firm at (912) 493-9506 today and schedule your free case evaluation with our Savannah DUI lawyer.
