Legal Question in DUI Law in Georgia

Probation

I am on probation for DUI/ speeding/ wreckless driving. I have paid off the dui, completed everything. I am currently disabiled waiting to have major surgery, wife lost job. I have been paying everything as required, but now do to her job loss and economy, I am not able to pay. I am having to get food stamps just to eat. Times are very hard and I don't see any relief. Can I be put in jail for my poverty level, and how long will it be? I owe 1200 dollars still. I have will have surgery in 10 days which will remove an entire organ and will leave me immobile for at least 6 months. What can I do to appease the courts, or be released from this obligation? Since my dui 2 years ago, I have completed a 9 month drug rehab, personal therapy, enrolled in college and will graduate in 1 week. Will this help me find mercy from the courts? Please tell me what to do!


Asked on 2/28/09, 7:04 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Jessica Towne Clark & Towne, PC

Re: Probation

A judge cannot put you in jail for not paying your job under the circumstances you describe (a judge will put you in jail for not paying when you have the means to do so, but just choose not to do so). If you've kept a copy of all the money you've paid to probation for fines, counseling and putting food on the table, ask your judge to suspend the rest of the fine. Call your judge's office (yes! You can do that; ask for a court date to address the judge.)

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Answered on 6/12/09, 5:26 pm
Martin Hilliard Martin G. Hilliard, PC

Re: Probation

First of all, congrats on completing college! Since all I have to go on is your account (and I am sure that you have given me all of the details for your side), I feel your pain. In this economy it's all one can do to stay above board. What I suggest is that you contact your probation officer or if you had/have an attorney, ask that they do it and explain to them what you are going through. They are human too and will more than likely work with you through this troubled time. Keep in mind that if you don't have an attorney, that it is always best that you do. They are experienced in negociating a better outcome to any situation. If I can be of any further assistance, please feel free to contact me by phone or email.

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Answered on 2/28/09, 7:44 pm


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