Speeding Ticket Defense Attorney

Fight Your Traffic Ticket

It happen to the best of us. If you have been pulled over for speeding or if you have received a speeding ticket through the mail, then you may think it’s best to just suck it up, pay the fine and move on. However, by paying the ticket you are admitting defeat and guilt. It is possible to challenge the charge and walk away without having to pay the fine and without damage to your driving record.

There are some instances when a speeding or traffic ticket can mean you will also lose your license.

However, you may not realize this until you have paid the ticket and receive a license revocation letter in the mail.

By then, it’s usually too late. Before you pay the ticket, contact a defense lawyer to discuss your options. You have 10 days to challenge the fine and possibly walk away without any complications and issues to your driver’s license.

Tom Barton is an experienced traffic ticket attorney defending clients across Georgia. With over 20 years experience he understands the rules of the road and how the law works. He can help you with all types of traffic violations and accusations including:

• Speeding tickets
• DUI arrests
• Reckless or negligent driving
• Failure to stop at a stop sign
• Failure to yield
• Parking tickets
• Driving without insurance
• Driving on a suspended license

Speeding Ticket Consequences

If you do receive a speeding ticket, you could be looking at:

• A fine of anywhere from $25.00 to $500.00 for a first time offense. How much you pay will depend on how fast above the speed limit you were going.
• A loss of license for six months to one year if you are under the age of 21 and if you are 24 miles per hour over the speed limit
• A loss of license for 30 days to one year if you have lost 15 points or more off your driving record in a twenty four month period. How many points you will lose for a traffic offense or speeding ticket will depend on how fast you were going as well as other factors. Most speeding tickets will result in a three point loss.

Defend Your License By Contacting Attorney Tom Barton Today

You driver’s license record is not something you should take for granted. Having a clear record means that you will be offered better insurance rates. Furthermore, in some employment positions, you will need a clear record in order to get the job. This is why it is so important to fight back against any unfair speeding or traffic ticket allegations.

While it may seem easier to just pay the fine and move on, you may be at risk of losing your license and more. Contact Tom Barton, an experienced traffic ticket defense attorney at 770-961-7400. We are available around the clock to answer your questions and assist you with your case.

Contact Tom Barton, an experienced Georgia criminal defense attorney at 770-961-7400. We are available around the clock to answer your questions and assist you with your case.
For more information visit us here or contact us.

The post Speeding Ticket Defense Attorney appeared first on Thomas S. Barton, a Georgia Attorney Specializing in DUI Defense.

Under 21 Drivers License Suspension

Getting your license is one of the most exciting things to happen to most teenagers. Finally you have the freedom to get behind the wheel and go! However, if you are under the age of 21 there are a lot of rules that apply to you on the roads. Furthermore, the law is also a lot stricter on drivers under the age of 21.

Because of the statistics surrounding speeding, drinking and driving and car accidents for those under the age of 21 and because of the lack of experience on the road, if you are ever caught doing something illegal on the roads, then you could be faced with an automatic license suspension.

If you are convicted of a traffic violation such as a speeding ticket or underage DUI arrest, then you could be looking at a license suspension. In many instances you won’t even realize that you are at risk of losing your license until you have already paid the fine and then receive a letter in the mail explaining that your license has been suspended for 6 months.

There are ways around this. You can speak to a defense attorney that has experience in traffic violation defense about what you can do to remain on the roads. You have 10 days to file an administrative hearing to challenge the suspension and remain on the road. During this time, do not pay your ticket. Instead, let us decide what the right thing to do is. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your legal rights and determine what is best for you.

1 Year Suspension For The Following Traffic Tickets

If you are under 21 and commit one of the following offenses you could also lose your license for up to a year:

• Speeding greater than 24 miles an hour over the posted speed limit
• Reckless driving
• Aggressive driving
• Minor drug possessions
• Leaving the scene of an accident
• Fleeing and eluding

 

Underage Drinking and DUI Offenses

When you are under the age of 21 and caught with any amount of alcohol in your system, then you could be charged with a DUI. It doesn’t matter if you only had a sip of beer – you could still be convicted. Under 21 DUI convictions can result in:

• 20-40 hours of community service
• Complete suspension of your driver’s license for six months to one year
• one day minimum in jail

What happens in your case will depend on a number of things including whether you have legal representation. Tom Barton can help you out of this situation and ensure the minimal damage to your license, your record and your life.

Save Your License – Contact Defense Attorney Tom Barton Today!

If you are under the age of 21 and have had your license suspended, our law firm can help. Tom Barton has over 20 years experience at negotiating reduced charges to a lesser two-point offense or at having the charges dropped completely. Don’t make the mistake of waiting until it’s too late. Contact Tom Barton, an experienced Georgia DUI defense attorney at 770-961-7400. We are available around the clock to answer your questions and assist you with your case.

Contact Tom Barton, an experienced Georgia criminal defense attorney at 770-961-7400. We are available around the clock to answer your questions and assist you with your case.
For more information visit us here or contact us.

The post Under 21 Drivers License Suspension appeared first on Thomas S. Barton, a Georgia Attorney Specializing in DUI Defense.

Drugs & DUI Arrest

The laws are strict regarding DUI arrests across the state of Georgia. DUI refers to driving under the influence and generally refers to alcohol. However, you could also be pulled over and tested to see if there are any other drugs in your system. Driving while high, stoned or on any form of illegal medication is a serious criminal offense.

If you have been pulled over for a suspected DUI, then there are two ways in which you could be arrested and possibly charged:

• The officer must show that the driver has .08 grams or more blood alcohol concentration within three hours, during or after, driving. This can be done through blood, urine and breath tests.
• The officer must prove that the driver has alcohol and/or other intoxicants that have caused dangerous or reckless driving. This is often done through a field sobriety test.

Many people assume that a first time DUI offense is no big deal. Sure, you’ll lose your license for a week and have to pay a small fine. It’s not this simple. Without the assistance of an attorney, even first time offenders face:

1. Up to $1,000.00 fine
2. 10 Days to 1 Year in Jail
3. DUI School
4. 40 Hours of Community Service
5. 1 Year Probation
6. 1 Year License Suspension

For a multiple DUI conviction, you could be looking at:

• $1000 to $5000 in fines
• 90 days to 5 years in prison
• 30 days community service
• Mandatory Alcohol Evaluation and/or Treatment
• Up to 1 Year Probation
• 3  to 5 Year Loss of License
• Ignition Interlock Device

You have ten days to do something about it – don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact a Henry DUI drug lawyer as soon as possible.

DUI and Drug Arrests

Keep in mind that driving under the influence doesn’t just refer to driving while drunk. You could also be charged with a DUI and face serious drug charges against you if you are caught behind the wheel under the influence of illegal or prescription drugs. Furthermore, if you are caught in possession of these drugs, then you are not only looking at a DUI offense but also a drug crime charge.

The penalties for a drug crime will depend on a number of factors including how much you have on you, what the drug is and what the intent is. Penalties for purchasing, possessing, manufacturing, delivering, distributing, selling, or possessing with the intent to distribute any controlled substance may be punishable by imprisonment for not less than two years or more than 15 years. However, this is only a general guideline. Just because you have been caught driving while stoned and the police has found a small amount of marijuana on you doesn’t mean you are automatically going to prison for 15 years – it all depends on your defense tactic and your individual circumstances.

Fighting Back Against DUI Drug Charges

Facing any drug allegation, even for simple possession or DUI, is a scary thing and could result in serious problems to your future if you are convicted. Don’t take any chances. Learn more about what you are up against and how you can fight back by speaking to a drug defense lawyer as soon as possible. Contact Tom Barton, an experienced Atlanta DUI attorney at 770-961-7400. We are available around the clock to answer your questions and assist you with your case.

Contact Tom Barton, an experienced Georgia criminal defense attorney at 770-961-7400. We are available around the clock to answer your questions and assist you with your case.
For more information visit us here or contact us.

The post Drugs & DUI Arrest appeared first on Thomas S. Barton, a Georgia Attorney Specializing in DUI Defense.

Semi Trucks and Drug Trafficking

Drug dealers and smugglers use all forms of transportation in order go keep up with the supple and demand of this underground industry. Since semi trucks move all over the country, it is only practical to assume they are used for this purpose as well. Under the pretense of delivering actual goods, many trucks travel along the highways with drugs in the trailers. In these types of instances, the truck drivers are aware of what they are hauling. They often due it for the amount of money they can earn hauling it.

In other instances, the truck driver and the trucking company aren’t aware of the drugs on their vehicles. The drugs are placed behind the wheels of the vehicle or even in some of the merchandise in the trailer. The drug smuggling is a process that is done behind the scenes among individuals at various cargo pick up and delivery points.

The FDA is always on the look out for suspicious activities that take place with semi trucks. They pay close attention to the trucks that are coming in and out of docks. Suspicious activity that is reported is quickly investigated. They have the right to use drug dogs in order to check the inside of the cab if they suspect drugs are on board. They also have special gauges and tools they can use to check for drugs stored in gas tanks or under the vehicle.

Sometimes the drugs found in semi trucks are for personal use. That is quite dangerous when you consider the professional responsibilities that come with being a truck driver. To help alleviate such issues, most truck drivers have to belong to a drug pool. These are in place by the companies they drive for and owner operators can sign up to become part of one on their own. If the driver is randomly pulled for a drug test they will be contacted. They have a set period of time to comply with taking the test. If they drive over the road they will be given instructions on where they can go in the area to have the drug testing done.

While most truck drivers are hard working individuals who strive to make a living doing what they enjoy, others take the easy way and want to earn the money associated with drug trafficking. The risks are very high though and any truck driver caught with drugs in or on the vehicle can be charged with possession. It can be very difficult for a truck driver who is innocently the transport without knowing it to prove they are not part of the process.

For more information contact us here.

The post Semi Trucks and Drug Trafficking appeared first on Thomas S. Barton, a Georgia Attorney Specializing in DUI Defense.

Don’t let a Drug Arrest Ruin Your Vacation

Many countries have stiff penalties for drug violations and strictly enforce drug laws. If you are caught buying, selling, carrying or using any type of drug – from hashish to heroin, marijuana to mescaline, cocaine to quaaludes – you will be arrested. You are subject to foreign laws overseas, not U.S. laws, and, if arrested, you will find that:

• Few countries provide a jury trial.
• Trials are often long, with delays and postponements.
• Most countries do not accept bail.
• Pre-trial detention, often in solitary confinement, may last for months.
If you are convicted, you face a possible sentence of:
• 2 – 10 years in many countries
• A minimum of 6 years hard labor and a stiff fine in some countries
• The death penalty in a number of countries (e.g. Malaysia, Pakistan, Turkey, Thailand, Saudi Arabia)

During recent years, there has been an increase in the number of women arrested abroad. These are usually women who serve as drug couriers or “mules” and who believe that they can make fast money and have a vacation at the same time, without getting caught. Instead of a vacation, they receive a permanent residence in an overseas jail.

U.S. citizens have been arrested abroad on drug charges because they possessed just one ounce or less of marijuana. The risk of being jailed for just one marijuana cigarette is simply not worth it!

Once you are arrested, the U.S. consular officer CANNOT get you out of jail nor out of the country!

Likewise, the U.S. consular officer CANNOT
• Represent you at trial or give you legal counsel.
• Pay legal fees and/or fines with U.S. Government funds.
PLEASE REMEMBER!
• If someone offers you a free trip and some quick and easy money, just for bringing back a suitcase…SAY NO!
• Do not carry a package for anyone, no matter how small it may be.
• Do not let anyone pack your suitcases for you while you are abroad.
• If the drugs are in you suitcase, you will be caught.

Do not get involved with illegal drugs overseas! It can spoil more than your vacation. It can ruin your life!

For more information contact us here!

The post Don’t let a Drug Arrest Ruin Your Vacation appeared first on Thomas S. Barton, a Georgia Attorney Specializing in DUI Defense.

All You Need to Know about Marijuana Drug Screening & THC Drug Testing

Marijuana is an illicit substance taken most often by means of smoking. A cigarette rolled with marijuana is called a joint. A cigar rolled with marijuana is called a blunt. The drug can also be smoke through a pipe or a bong. Regardless of how marijuana is taken, it is harmful to the body, impairs judgment and its use is an incredible liability to companies.

What is THC?
Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC in its abbreviated form is the substance found in marijuana. As the active ingredient in cannabis, THC is what causes the pleasurable sensations those who take marijuana describe.

Signs of Marijuana Abuse
A person high on marijuana exhibits tell-tale symptoms including loud talking and laughter, sleepiness, irritated eyes, odor on breath and clothing, carrying drug paraphernalia, distorted sense of time intervals and forgetfulness.

Signs of Marijuana Addiction
Marijuana addicts are often focused on the drug at all times, when they will next be able to use, where they will use and where they will get their next fix from. Warning signs include dependence, uncontrollable urge to use the drug, mental fixation on the drug, and continued use of the drug despite physical, emotional, mental and social consequences associated with it.

Marijuana Drug Testing
Drug testing for marijuana is very beneficial to companies and parents alike. Not only is marijuana drug testing easy to perform, it is also laboratory accurate in most cases. Marijuana drug test kits are available in many different types including hair drug tests, urine drug tests, saliva drug tests and spray drug tests. Each of these marijuana tests have their own pros and cons, yet the most popular for marijuana drug testing in the home and the workplace is the urine drug test. Once a urine sample is collected, the dipstick, or other testing device is subjected to the sample and results can be read within minutes.

Employers benefit greatly from THC drug testing, as it helps to maintain a safe working environment for employees and keeps productivity up. Losses associated with drug use in the workplace include decreased productivity, absenteeism, workers compensation claims, insurance claims and onsite accidents. To prevent this, marijuana drug testing can keep jobsite drug abuse at bay and ensure employees are safe, healthy and working to the best of their ability.

Parents can also benefit from marijuana testing. Drug testing kits are simple to use and help worried families conclude whether or not their child is abusing drugs. Drug testing for marijuana can help keep drugs out of your home and out of the hands of your children. Marijuana testing can also be the first step in helping your teen overcome their drug addiction.

For more information contact us here!

The post All You Need to Know about Marijuana Drug Screening & THC Drug Testing appeared first on Thomas S. Barton, a Georgia Attorney Specializing in DUI Defense.

Do Not Drink And Drive

Drinking and driving is not only dangerous for the other guy but also the driver and the passengers of the car itself. You should refrain from drinking and driving as there is a significantly increased risk of car accidents, damage to property and injury to people. Prevention is always better than cure. Hence, drinking and driving should not go together … in fact it is stupid. Heavy penalties can be impounded on the accused, like suspension of driver’s license, fines, a term in jail and confiscation of vehicle registration plates.

Every year there are thousands of people getting hurt or dying due to the drinking and driving. About 20% of the traffic fatalities all over the world take place due to drunk driving. We, like responsible citizens, should understand the ill effects of drunk driving and refrain from doing it. DUI or Drinking under the Influence of Intoxicants may cause problems in the present and in the future. The police should carry random checks on drunk drivers, especially at night to catch the offenders and reduce the menace. A breath analyzer test is the most common test used to catch the offenders.

Also, studies show that half of the offenders caught were not under the influence of alcohol but other banned substances like drugs. Parents should warn their children against drunk driving and show their own daily lives to their children by example. They should make their children understand the importance of being a responsible citizen. And, they should do nothing to bring any harm or any injury to people including something as irresponsible as drunk driving.

There are certain measures that can be implemented to curb drunk driving. Regular checks for drunk drivers on the road can be carried out by the law. Offenders should be severely punished in the form of levying heavy fines and penalties. Licenses of regular offenders should be suspended or terminated. Rehabilitation programs should be conducted for those people who can’t kiss the habit goodbye. Every state should provide adequate information on the bad effects of DUI at the time of the driver’s exams.

Many cars will have technological devices available like alarm systems in case the driver inside falls asleep. They will soon be fitted with anti collision devices so that the car brakes automatically if it is about to crash with another object in the front or the back.

Remember by being a responsible citizen you set an example to other people as well. Do not unnecessarily force others to drink at your parties. See to it that the party gets over well within time so that people can leave early. And also provide alternate means of transportation for those that do drink.

If you are arrested for DUI, then hiring a DUI lawyer proves to be the best decision. Driving under the influence can have serious consequences on you if you are involved in a car accident. You may face consequences like jail or prison, penalties or fines, vehicle impoundment, etc. The DUI lawyer is familiar with the intricacies and procedures involved with DUI charges and are your best bet if you find yourself in such a predicament.

For more information contact us here.

The post Do Not Drink And Drive appeared first on Thomas S. Barton, a Georgia Attorney Specializing in DUI Defense.

Binge Drinking: A Sober Risk for Teenagers

Liquor stores, bars, and alcoholic beverage companies make drinking seem attractive and fun. It’s easy for anyone to get caught up in a social scene with lots of peer pressure. Inevitably, one of the biggest areas of peer pressure, especially among teenagers is drinking.

Many people, especially the youth, don’t normally think about the negative side of drinking. Although they think about the consequences of getting drunk, not too much attention is given to the possibility of being hung-over or throwing up. Some people do not know that excessive drinking can lead to loss of concentration, memory lapses, mood changes, and other problems that could affect their day-to-day life. Even with all the public health warnings, there is still a significant portion of the population that would ignore the more serious and longer-lasting risks of alchohol abuse.

When it comes to heavy drinking, the phrase “binge drinking” comes to mind. The phrase was originally used to refer to heavy drinking that lasted for several days. Nowadays, the meaning of “binge drinking” has drastically changed. To most people, binge drinking brings to mind self-destruction and unrestrained drinking bout lasting for at least a couple of days during which time the heavily intoxicated drinker drops out by not working, ignoring responsibilities, squandering money, and engaging in other harmful behaviors such as fighting or risky sex. Binge drinking is not only dangerous to the drinker, but to the people around him or her.

According to a recent study issued by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University in New York, about half of U.S. college students binge drink. The report states that 49 percent of full-time college students ages 18 to 22 binge drink, consuming five or more drinks at a time. The percentage of students who drink remained about even with a similar 1993 report. The statistics show a steady increase in the number of students who engaged in binge drinking. But the proportion of students who binge drink frequently, defined as drinking three or more times over two weeks, rose by 16 percent from 1993 to 2005. Drinking 10 or more times per month rose 25 percent, and drinking three or more times per month rose 26 percent.

Binge drinking impairs judgment, so drinkers are more likely to take risks they might not take when they’re sober. They may drive drunk, which then increases the risk of being involved in car accidents. Driving isn’t the only motor skill that’s impaired, though. Walking is also more difficult while intoxicated. In 2000, roughly one third of pedestrians 16 and older who were killed in traffic accidents were intoxicated. People who are drunk also take other risks they might not normally take when they’re sober. For example, people who have impaired judgment may have unprotected sex, putting them at greater risk of a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or unplanned pregnancy.

Studies also show that people who binge-drink throughout high school are more likely to be overweight and obese and have high blood pressure by the time they are 24. Just one regular beer contains about 150 calories, which adds up to a lot of calories if someone drinks four or five beers a night. Some studies have shown that people who binge-drink heavily like those who have three or more episodes of binge drinking in 2 weeks have some of the symptoms of alcoholism.

For teenagers, it can be hard for some of them to talk to adults about these issues, so an alternative person to talk to could be a trusted friend or older sibling. Drinking too much can be the result of social pressures, and sometimes it helps to know there are others who have gone through the same thing. A supportive friend or adult could help one to avoid pressure situations, stop drinking, or find counseling. There will always be someone who can help and put a halt on this dilemma.

For more information contact us here!

The post Binge Drinking: A Sober Risk for Teenagers appeared first on Thomas S. Barton, a Georgia Attorney Specializing in DUI Defense.

Find a Lawyer After a Boating Accident

Finding a lawyer after being involved in a boating accident is very important. Whether you were the cause of the accident or you were the victim, securing effective legal counsel can make your life dealing with the accident much easier.

What should you look for in a lawyer? Well, you should first ask questions and find a lawyer who specializes or at least has some experience with boating accidents. After an accident has happened – especially a boating accident – finding a lawyer might not be your first inclination, and it shouldn’t be. But you should find your lawyer as soon after the boating accident as possible.

Believe it or not, maritime accidents carry the same possibility of penalties and fines as a car accident. Depending on the severity of the accident, the amount of damages awarded is often just as large as with a car wreck. Of course, we hope you had already secured adequate boating insurance, but if you are the victim, you still need to have all of the information you can get.
Typically, powerboats such as runabouts, cabin cruisers and jet skis are the most common watercraft to be involved in boating accidents, although sailboats can be involved in accidents as well.
The most frequent sources of injuries are caused from propeller accidents and collisions. Because personal watercraft such as jet skis can’t be steered when the throttle is released, inexperienced drivers often have collisions when confronted with an emergency. Serious personal injury and even death can occur due to a boating collision or from a person falling over the side of a watercraft and drowning.
As the operator of a vessel you are required by law to file a formal, written report of an accident. Reports must generally be filed within 48 hours of the date of the accident. That is applicable whether there are injuries or not.
In general, you will only need to find a lawyer after a boating accident if there is some damage done either to the coastline, the boats, or in the loss of life or serious injuries. Just to be safe, it’s still a good idea to file a report with your state maritime authority so you can avoid any fines that might come about for not filing an accident report.
Boating accident attorneys will approach the accident just as they would a car accident. They will speak on your behalf using previous laws to strengthen your case. Their job is to obtain compensation both for damages as well as injuries, if there are any.
Finding a lawyer after a boating accident is definitely a good step to take when becoming involved in a wreck on the water. If for nothing else, you will be properly represented and properly defended depending on what side of the accident you are on.

For more information contact us here!

The post Find a Lawyer After a Boating Accident appeared first on Thomas S. Barton, a Georgia Attorney Specializing in DUI Defense.

Will I Lose My License After a DUI in Georgia

Will you lose your license? This is one of the biggest concerns people have when faced with a DUI conviction. And, in most instances, if you are convicted of drunk driving, then yes, you will have your license suspended. You could lose your ability to drive for up to one year and this can include a commercial driver’s license which you may need for your job.

There are ways around this, however. Speaking to an experienced defense lawyer as soon as you are arrested is your best chance of remaining on the roads and keeping your license. Tom Barton is an aggressive defense attorney with over 20 years of experience assisting with license suspensions relating to DUI in Georgia. He will work with you to make sure you are able to get to work and that you have your driving privileges fully reinstated as soon as possible.

You Must Take Action To Reinstate Your Driver’s License

Attorney Tom Barton explains what happens to your license after a DUI conviction in the state of Georgia. All suspensions are based on the number of convictions you’ve had within a 5 year period.

Fighting to Protect Your Driver’s License

Don’t wait – as soon as you receive a notice of suspension, you have ten days to request a hearing. Schedule a free consultation with a lawyer during this time to determine what can be done and how you can remain on the road and behind the wheel.

If you do nothing during the 10 days, then your license will automatically be suspended for a period of twelve months.

This can make it impossible for some people to work (if you need a license for your job) and make it harder for your entire family.

Furthermore, if you have a commercial driver’s license and face a DUI, then you will also lose your right to drive a commercial vehicle immediately without a hearing.

Again, this could mean you are without a way to make an income or are stuck at home on your next family caravan vacation. Don’t let this one mistake impact your life for the next twelve months. There are ways around it.

There are multiple ways you can minimize or eliminate suspension of your driver’s license. An experienced Henry license suspension lawyer can assist you with:

• Requesting an administrative hearing
• Obtaining a limited or temporary driving permit
• Investigating the DUI arrest and get the charges dropped due to exclusion of evidence after improper stop, improper breath or blood testing or other inaccuracies and errors in the prosecution’s case
• Attending a certified driving school
• Submitting all the necessary paperwork needed for proper reinstatement procedures
• Keeping your driving record clear of a conviction

Remaining on the Road

Don’t make the mistake of driving on a suspended license … that could lead to substantial fines, jail and an even longer period of suspension. Whether you have been arrested for a DUI or have received a license suspension letter for another reason, contact my firm today for aggressive defense. 770-961-7400. We are available around the clock to answer your questions and assist you with your case

The post Will I Lose My License After a DUI in Georgia appeared first on Thomas S. Barton, a Georgia Attorney Specializing in DUI Defense.

DUI After NASCAR Race

Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton, Georgia is host to several races: the Sprint Cup Series, the Nationwide Series and the Craftsman Truck Series. NASCAR races are huge, exciting events that many people take annual vacations to attend. However, your vacation or day at the race can turn from a fun time with friends to a frightening experience in just minutes. Getting a DUI after a NASCAR race is something no fan wants to have happen. If it does happen to you, however, you do have legal options.

Don’t accept a DUI without first speaking to a Georgia criminal defense lawyer. A conviction can result in immediate time behind bars as well as a license suspension. If you have been arrested in the past, then this can make things even harder for you. Whether this is your first DUI charge or a multiple DUI offense, he can act quickly and knowledgeably to protect your rights and your future.

It can be easy to get a little out of hand. You may think that you are not over the limit or that you have waited long enough before getting into the car and behind the wheel. You may have the best intentions on taking a cab but the long line ups have pushed you back behind the wheel. Or you may think that it’s only a short distance back home or to your hotel and you are willing to risk it. Whatever has happened, our experience in defending DUI charges can help you ensure the best outcome possible.

A DUI conviction can result in jail time, license suspension, commercial driver’s license suspension and fines. Furthermore, you could also be looking at a permanent mark on your criminal record. The good news is that every case is handled on an individual basis and that, while the Georgia courts are quite strict on drunk drivers, it is possible to minimize your sentence and clear your name completely with the right defense strategy.

DUI Arrest With An Out of State License

When you are visiting Georgia from out of state you could still be faced with a DUI arrest. You probably are unaware of the laws regarding this arrest and what this means for your life back home. Our defense attorney, Tom Barton can assess your case and determine your option for out of state arrests. You don’t want to run away without consulting a lawyer about what this could mean down the road.

Don’t Let This One Mistake Steer Your Life Off Course

Whether you live in Georgia or out-of-state, contact my firm today for aggressive defense against drunk driving charges in Hampton, Atlanta or anywhere in Georgia.

Contact Tom Barton, an experienced Georgia DUI defense attorney at 770-961-7400. We are available around the clock to answer your questions and assist you with your case.

The post DUI After NASCAR Race appeared first on Thomas S. Barton, a Georgia Attorney Specializing in DUI Defense.

The dangers of driving when drunk

According to statistics, over 90% of all UK drivers consider that driving under the influence of alcohol is extremely dangerous, and recognize the dangers of driving when drunk. The problem with this statistic is that it means that over two million UK drivers must think that drunk driving is not dangerous. This could not be further from the truth, each year on British roads 3000 to 3500 people are killed in drink related accidents.

Newspaper headlines commonly claim that the numbers are falling, although it is true that over the last few years the numbers have fallen, that is only compared to record highs. When you look at the first time the figure was recorded back in 1979 only 1600 people were killed, half of today’s figures. Therefore, it seems hard to argue that these are ‘good’ figures and numbers of deaths are going down.

The UK legal limit for driving with alcohol in your system is 80mg of alcohol to 100ml of blood. It does not necessarily follow that if you body has less than this limit you are safe to drive. In the US, many states have successfully prosecuted drivers who were below the legal limit but still deemed to be unfit to drive.

Even in the late 70’s if the police stopped a driver who was drunk, they often did not have breathalyzers available. And would also take an attitude of the driver was ‘not too drunk’ and let them walk the rest of the way home. That attitude has disappeared completely; police now always seek convictions for drivers who are even a tiny fraction over the limit.

If you choose to drink and drive the law now has stiff penalties, combined with a strong will to make an example of, not just some, but all offenders. Driving above the limit carries a 12 month ban, a £5,000 fine, and a sentence of up to six months in jail, and that is for the first offence. Anyone who thinks it’s a good idea to refuse a breath test faces the same penalties.

An endorsement on your license for a drink-driving is not removed for eleven years, that means for eleven years if the police pull you over they will almost certainly breathalyze you, on the basis that you have a history of ignoring the dangers of driving when drunk.

Insurance companies would rather take on a seventeen year old with a sports car than someone with a drink driving conviction as they consider the risk to be lower. This means premiums could be several times what you paid before the conviction. After a second offence, insurance is nearly impossible to obtain at any price.

Drunk drivers who killed someone else, used to often come under the careless driving laws, which carried a maximum penalty of a £2,500 fine. The new offence of causing death by careless driving, while under the influence of drink or drugs, is slightly stricter with a maximum disqualification of two years, and a fourteen year prison sentence.

Drinking and driving is now completely socially unacceptable, with not only the courts frowning on such behavior. Friends and neighbours can ostracize offenders, employers have no interest in taking on convicted drink drivers, and even if they do, their insurers will often block the employment. The days of casual drink driving are well and truly over with the vast majority of people recognizing the dangers of driving when drunk on British roads.

The post The dangers of driving when drunk appeared first on Thomas S. Barton, a Georgia Attorney Specializing in DUI Defense.