The Georgia DUI case process can vary widely according to the jurisdiction in which the case is pending. However, there are some parts that remain consistent across every court. Understanding those parts and processes will go a long way towards removing the uncertainty and anxiety following an arrest. Below are the basic elements of a DUI arrest, and there are links to pages on our site that provide more detailed explanations of these individual parts. As always, if you have questions about your DUI case, please call us at (470) 225-7710.
The Georgia DUI Case Process: What to Expect
- ALS Appeal or Ignition Interlock Permit. Within 30 days from the date of arrest, you must file an appeal of any administrative license suspension arising from your DUI arrest or you must obtain an ignition interlock permit. Whether to file an appeal or to obtain an ignition interlock permit can be one of the most important decisions in your case.
- ALS Hearing. The administrative license suspension (ALS) hearing determines whether your driver’s license or privilege to drive in Georgia will be suspended prior to the conclusion of your criminal case.
- Arraignment. The arraignment hearing in your Georgia DUI case is where you enter a not guilty or guilty plea in your DUI case.
- Filing of Pre-trial Motions. Motions to suppress and motions in limine are extremely important in DUI cases. They must be filed within 10 days of the date of arraignment.
- Pre-trial Motions Hearings. Pre-trial motions hearings are hearings at which the Judge rules upon motions that your attorney has filed asking for all of the State’s case to be dismissed or for part of the State’s evidence to be excluded from use at the trial of your case.
- Calendar Call. The calendar call is a hearing at which the Court asks for an announcement from the State and from your lawyer about what else remains to be done on the case and whether it is ready for trial.
- Trial or Plea.
- Appeal.
