A DUI charge in Atlanta is not a citation you “handle later.” Georgia’s strict 10-day administrative license suspension rule means you have a narrow window to request a hearing and protect your driving privileges. If you are searching for the Best DUI Lawyer Atlanta, GA, immediate action is critical to preserve evidence, challenge probable cause, and avoid automatic penalties.
This guide highlights leading DUI defense attorneys in metro Atlanta based on courtroom experience in Fulton County State Court, municipal courts, Georgia Bar standing, and reputation for aggressive litigation. If your case involves aggravating factors—such as injury, drugs, or multiple prior offenses—specialized defense strategy becomes even more important.
Understanding DUI Charges in Georgia
Georgia’s 10-Day Rule
After a DUI arrest in Georgia, you have only 10 days to request an administrative hearing to stop your license suspension. Missing this deadline can result in automatic suspension, regardless of the outcome of your criminal case.
Criminal vs. Administrative Proceedings
A DUI case typically involves two separate tracks:
- Administrative License Suspension (ALS) – handled through the Department of Driver Services.
- Criminal DUI Charges – prosecuted in municipal, state, or superior court.
An experienced DUI attorney will address both tracks simultaneously, challenge breathalyzer calibration, question field sobriety test procedures, and evaluate the legality of the initial traffic stop.
How to Choose the Right DUI Attorney in Atlanta
Local Court Experience
Atlanta DUI defense requires familiarity with Fulton County judges, prosecutors, and procedural nuances. Trial experience matters, especially when plea negotiations depend on demonstrated courtroom readiness.
Scientific & Technical Defense
Strong DUI defense often hinges on challenging:
- Breath and blood testing accuracy
- Field sobriety test administration
- Officer body cam and dash cam footage
- Chain of custody and lab procedures
Case Type Specialization
If your case involves enhanced penalties, consider attorneys experienced in:
- Aggravated DUI Defense
- Multiple DUI Offenses
- Drug-Related DUI Cases
- DUI Manslaughter Defense
- DUI with Car Accident Claims
Top DUI Lawyers in Atlanta, GA
1. William C. “Bubba” Head
Widely regarded as one of Georgia’s leading DUI defense authorities, William C. Head has authored legal texts used by other DUI attorneys. His firm focuses on complex, high-stakes DUI litigation.
Website: https://www.georgia-dui-lawyer.com
Phone: (404) 567-5515
Email: info@bubbahead.com
2. Yeargan & Kert, LLC
Led by former DUI prosecutor Jim Yeargan, this firm uses prosecutorial insight to dismantle the state’s case strategy from the inside.
Website: https://www.atlantaduilawyer.com
Phone: (404) 467-1747
Email: jim@atlantaduilawyer.com
3. George C. Creal, Jr., P.C.
With more than 30 years of experience, George Creal is known for trial-focused defense that pressures prosecutors into stronger plea negotiations.
Website: https://www.georgecreal.com
Phone: (404) 333-0706
Email: george@georgecreal.com
4. Richard S. Lawson
Dedicated exclusively to DUI defense, Lawson’s firm offers 24/7 availability and comprehensive handling of both administrative and criminal proceedings.
Website: https://www.georgiaduilawyer.com
Phone: (404) 816-4440
Email: lawson@georgiaduilawyer.com
5. Glenn T. Stern
Highly rated and experienced in license suspension hearings, Stern focuses on minimizing collateral consequences beyond criminal penalties.
Website: https://www.sternlawfirm.com
Phone: (404) 320-1049
Email: gstern@sternlawfirm.com
6. Melanie Ellwanger
A former prosecutor providing personalized defense strategy, Ellwanger emphasizes detailed case review and client accessibility.
Website: https://www.hiremelanie.com
Phone: (404) 803-3105
Email: melanie@hiremelanie.com
7. M. Qader A. Baig & Associates
This firm approaches DUI defense as a constitutional rights issue, examining whether improper procedures or unlawful stops occurred.
Website: https://www.mqablaw.com
Phone: (770) 929-1665
Email: qader@mqablaw.com
8. The Law Office of Kevin R. Fisher
Known for aggressively challenging breath-testing science and calling expert witnesses to dispute BAC evidence.
Website: https://www.kevinfisherlaw.com
Phone: (404) 403-2665
Email: kevin@kevinfisherlaw.com
9. Kyle H. Jarzmik Law
A boutique practice experienced in navigating Atlanta Municipal Court procedures and technical defenses.
Website: https://www.jarzmiklaw.com
Phone: (770) 676-3565
Email: kyle@jarzmiklaw.com
Related DUI Defense Guides by Location
If you are comparing attorneys in other jurisdictions, review our in-depth city and state guides:
- Best DUI Lawyer Los Angeles, CA
- Best DUI Lawyer Orange County, CA
- Best DUI Lawyer California
- Best DWI/DUI Lawyer Dallas, TX
- Best DUI Defense Lawyer Dallas, TX
- Best DUI Lawyer Austin, TX
- Best DUI Lawyer Albuquerque, NM
- Best DUI Lawyer Pittsburgh, PA
- Best DUI Lawyer Philadelphia, PA
- Best DUI Lawyer Nashville, TN
- Best DUI Lawyer Minneapolis, MN
Final Thoughts
A DUI conviction can impact your license, employment, insurance premiums, and long-term criminal record. The earlier a qualified defense attorney intervenes, the stronger your position becomes. If you are facing charges in Georgia, prioritize immediate legal consultation and ensure your 10-day license deadline is protected.
