Child endangerment DUI counts in Forsyth County, GA

A standard first DUI offense carries tough penalties including up to one year in jail or probation, drivers license suspension, hefty fines and court costs as well as DUI school, alcohol and drug assessments and counseling and community service.  For subsequent DUI offenses in Cumming or greater Forsyth, the penalties get more severe. 

If you are pulled over and charged with DUI and there is a minor child in the vehicle with you, you will be charged with the second offense of DUI child endangerment.  The charges of DUI and DUI child endangerment seem like they should merge into one charge, but they are mutually exclusive. This means that for one incident, you are charged with the equivalent of two DUIs and that will be considered in your sentencing if convicted. 

For example, if you are charged with DUI and you had two children under 14 in the car, you are facing the equivalent of what would be your third DUI conviction.  Penalties can be quite serious with prolonged jail time and possible felony treatment. 

If you find yourself facing DUI child endangerment charges, call Forsyth County lawyer Richard Lawson as soon as possible following your arrest to discuss your case.