A second or third DUI arrest in Forsyth County carries serious consequences, potential jail time, hefty fines, license revocation, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. However, the Forsyth County DUI Court offers qualifying individuals an intensive treatment-based alternative that addresses the underlying addiction issues while keeping participants in the community.
What Is Forsyth County DUI Court?
The Forsyth County DUI Court is an intensive 18-month minimum treatment program serving repeat DUI/BUI offenders. This state-certified program is a partnership among judges, the solicitor’s office, probation officers, law enforcement, treatment providers, and defense attorneys, all working together to provide intervention and support for participants who can function in the community with proper oversight.
Participants attend status review hearings four times monthly, more frequently than other accountability courts, reflecting the intensive nature of DUI Court supervision. Treatment sessions occur up to three times weekly, with random drug and alcohol screenings two to three times per week.
Who Qualifies for DUI Court in Cumming, GA?
Eligibility requirements for Forsyth County DUI Court include and exceptions can be made:
- Current second DUI within 10 years OR third or more DUI in lifetime (includes BUI charges)
- No prior violent felony convictions
- Clinical eligibility for substance use disorder treatment
- Legal U.S. residency
- Residence in Forsyth County or a contiguous county
- All open cases in other circuits must be closed
For probation referrals, participants must have at least 18 months remaining on their probation sentence and have either tested positive for alcohol/drugs or received a new charge involving substances while on probation.
The DUI Court Entry Process
Following a DUI arrest, individuals are placed on the DUI Review Calendar. The prosecutor makes the legal referral decision, and defendants meet with both their attorney and the DUI Court Coordinator to discuss program requirements. If interested and referred, defendants receive an assessment date, and their residence is verified. Clinical referral is then provided to the DUI Court Team, and a plea is scheduled.
Important Things to Know
Your DUI charge will NOT be dismissed. Unlike some drug court programs, DUI Court participation does not result in charge dismissal. However, it does provide treatment, education, and a structured path toward recovery.
Driving privileges are restricted. Program entry doesn’t immediately allow for a driving permit. After 28 days of documented sobriety while in DUI Court, participants may request an ACLP (Administrative License for Clinical Purposes). If your license is revoked, you are not eligible for any driving permits.
Program Rules
DUI Court participants must follow strict guidelines:
- No alcohol, drugs, or firearms in the home (even locked in a safe)
- No employment at bars, restaurants, or establishments where alcohol is primary
- No vaping or energy drinks
- Court-approved travel only (maximum 3 days, no international travel)
- Pre-approval required for all medications
Recent Program Improvements
Forsyth County’s accountability courts have implemented some recent changes, including reduced jail time for sanctions, more robust treatment options featuring specialty groups (Financial Management, Boundaries, 7 Habits of Highly Successful People, Healthy Living), and expanded incentives for program compliance.
The Forsyth County Accountability Courts Office at 425 Tribble Gap Road, Cumming, GA 30040. Telephone 678-455-4780.
Contact our office to speak with an attorney regarding your specific situation.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. This blog contains general information and may not reflect current legal developments. If you’re facing criminal charges in Forsyth County, contact our office to discuss your specific situation.
