How Tiger Woods Could Avoid A DUI Conviction

Tiger Woods' recent DUI arrest has been the subject of a great deal of media coverage and scrutiny, with news outlets releasing photos and video of Woods' vehicle, his breathalyzer test at the station and dash cam footage of the arrest. Woods' tires were flat and the vehicle was towed to a lot in Jupiter, Florida where the arrest took place. When found stopped in the right lane of Military Trail, Woods allegedly did not know where he was. His arrest has thrown a media spotlight on drugged driving, as the breathalyzer test showed zero alcohol present in his system - Woods insists his impairment was due to an "unexpected reaction to prescribed medications." He has blogged at length about the string of back surgeries he has undergone over the years, recently blogging about the success of his surgeon's latest endeavor. "It is hard to express how much better I feel," Woods wrote. "It was instant nerve relief. I haven't felt this good in years." The procedure alleviated much of the back and leg pain he had been experiencing. It is as of yet unclear which prescription meds Woods had taken the night of the arrest, in relation to his back surgery. Toxicology reports could take several weeks to process.

With all of these factors taken into account, there is a way in which Woods could evade a DUI conviction. As a first offender, while he will not be treated leniently per se, but he has significantly more leeway under the law than repeat offenders. Alternative sentencing options are relatively common or at least more viable in cases where the driver was a first time offender. They are usually achieved by means of probation, successfully completed courses and community service. Thursday marks the 4th anniversary of Palm Beach's first-time DUI offender diversion program, launched by the County State Attorney's Office. According to the Palm Beach Post, "local attorneys who have ushered dozens of clients through the program believe Woods' case meets the requirements." To participate in the program, the driver must have a valid driver's license, no prior felony or drug charges, and there had to have been no children or animals present in the vehicle. Should Woods be eligible and complete the program, he could spend 12 months on probation. Upon completion, his charge could be reduced to a misdemeanor of reckless driving and records of the incident may be sealed.

If you have been charged with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol in Georgia, allow a skilled Georgia DUI attorney to review the charges against you. Richard Lawson has over 20 years experience in Georgia DUI law; he is devoted to presenting the best defense possible and upholding your rights in court. Do not hesitate to contact our office today.