College Student DUI Attorney in Cobb

Schools like Kennesaw State University and Life University enforce strict campus conduct policies. A DUI, even off-campus, can lead to disciplinary actions such as probation, suspension, or expulsion. Students often have to handle both the legal process and university disciplinary proceedings simultaneously, which can feel overwhelming.

We don’t just defend DUI charges. We create strategies to protect your education, record, and future. Led by former prosecutor Kim Keheley Frye, our experienced team uses local knowledge and a proactive approach to help Cobb County students move forward without lasting harm.

Contact Frye Law Group today to schedule a meeting with our BUI lawyer in Marietta!

Georgia DUI Laws and How They Affect Students  

Georgia has strict DUI laws, especially for drivers under 21. According to Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-391(k)(1)), the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers under 21 is 0.02%. This means that even one drink could lead to DUI charges. Law enforcement actively enforces these laws, particularly near college campuses like Kennesaw State University or Life University.  

For students, the consequences of a DUI start immediately, even before the case goes to court. Georgia’s administrative license suspension process begins at the time of arrest. You have 30 days to request a hearing to challenge the suspension. If you fail, your license could be automatically suspended for up to 12 months, even for a first offense.  

Criminal penalties for a first-time DUI conviction in Georgia include:  

• At least 24 hours in jail  

• Fines that can exceed $1,000 with added court fees  

• Mandatory participation in a state-approved Risk Reduction Program (DUI School)  

• A substance abuse evaluation and treatment, if required  

• At least 40 hours of community service, as per Georgia laws  

Refusing a chemical test during your arrest leads to harsher penalties under Georgia’s implied consent law, such as an automatic license suspension. Sometimes, the penalties for refusing the test are worse than failing it. Aggravating factors, like a BAC of 0.08% or higher, transporting a minor, or causing an accident, can result in longer jail time and additional penalties.  

Protecting Your Academic and Career Future After a DUI Arrest

A DUI arrest can cause serious problems for college students beyond fines and license suspension. Many Georgia universities start disciplinary actions right after an arrest, even before the criminal case is resolved. These actions can result in academic probation, suspension, loss of campus housing, or removal from organizations and study abroad programs.

While a first-time DUI involving alcohol does not automatically affect state or federal financial aid, related disciplinary actions can still create challenges. For example, HOPE and Zell Miller scholarships are only suspended after a felony drug conviction, such as a fourth DUI involving controlled substances. However, if a student faces academic suspension, scholarship payments may stop due to enrollment gaps, requiring requalification later.

At Frye Law Group, we take proactive steps to protect both your legal and academic future. When needed, we work directly with university conduct boards and focus on legal strategies that minimize academic harm. These may include pretrial diversion, record restriction, or other approaches to keep your education on track.

Contact Frye Law Group today to schedule a meeting with our BUI lawyer in Marietta!