What if my child has been charged with DUI?

Many parents contact our office because their child is facing DUI or vehicular homicide charges.  In almost all cases, they are embarrassed, angry, and afraid of what the future may hold.  The first thing we always tell them is that it's completely natural to have all of those feelings.   

The second thing we do is strongly recommend that they hire the very best lawyer to represent their child in both the criminal case and administrative license suspension hearing. 

Many times, we also hear parents say that they want their child to learn a lesson, and that they are hesitant to help them through this ordeal.  Being parents, we also understand those feelings.  However, as you consider what emotional and/or financial support you would or would not want to provide, we encourage you to consider the following:

• If your child was arrested for DUI, it's likely they have already spent 6-24 hours in jail, had their car impounded, been handcuffed and fingerprinted, and experienced a tremendous amount of embarrassment. 
• A DUI conviction can negatively impact a person for many years, especially financially.  Not only can insurance premiums cost much more, but a criminal conviction can stop someone from getting a job, prevent admission to certain schools, and fail the criteria for earning a professional license.
• If your child fails to request an administrative license suspension hearing within 10 business days of their arrest, or loses that hearing, he or she will be unable to drive legally for a number of months.  
• If your child told you about their arrest, they trust you—and are looking for type of support only a parent can provide.

   

If you want to discuss the options for a child or loved one that has been charged with DUI, call the experienced Georgia DUI attorneys at the Chestney Law Firm.