Clarke County Court Process

The Athens-Clarke County DUI Treatment Court, founded by Judge N. Kent Lawrence, is a "National Academy Court," designating it as a model program for the nation. This post-adjudication diversion program is designed for high-risk or repeat offenders (e.g., 2nd DUI in 5 years, or BAC > 0.15 with history). Eligibility requires Clarke County residency (or Oconee for the Western Circuit track), being 17+ years old, and having no violent felony history.

Clarke County Court Procedures for DUI

If arrested for DUI in Clarke County, Georgia, your case will initially be heard in either the Municipal Court of Athens-Clarke County or the State Court of Athens-Clarke County, depending on the arresting agency and whether a jury trial is requested. ACCPD-initiated cases begin in Municipal Court.

Municipal Court vs. State Court

The Municipal Court handles county ordinance violations and serves as the initial venue for state misdemeanor traffic offenses (including DUI) arrested by ACCPD. However, the Municipal Court is a non-jury tribunal, meaning you cannot have a jury trial there. If you demand a jury trial, the case is "bound over" to the State Court of Athens-Clarke County.

State Court handles misdemeanor crimes and jury trials for traffic offenses.

Judicial Profiles

The State Court bench comprises two judges:

• Chief Judge Charles E. Auslander III: He helped establish the Athens DUI Court and is deeply focused on the root causes of recidivism (addiction). His sentencing often emphasizes therapeutic interventions over purely punitive measures for those willing to engage in treatment. He is the presiding judge of the DUI Treatment Court.

• Judge Ryan Hope: Known for procedural efficiency and modernization. His background in defense provides a balanced perspective on procedural rights.

DUI Treatment Court

This is a 12-24 month program divided into 4-5 phases. Phase 1 (Intensive) includes weekly court appearances, multiple random drug screens per week, and curfew. As participants demonstrate sobriety, supervision intensity decreases. Participants are assigned a color. They must call a testing line (762-400-8378) every morning between 4:00 AM and 5:00 PM to hear if their color is called. If called, they must report to the Athens Drug Lab for a urine screen that day. Non-compliance (missed test, positive screen) results in immediate "shock incarceration" (e.g., 24-48 hours in jail) or community service. Successful completion typically results in a significant reduction of penalties.

Securing Release After Arrest: Bonding Procedures

Release from custody is primarily achieved through the posting of bond. Clarke County utilizes a Bond Schedule for most misdemeanor DUI offenses, allowing for release without a judicial hearing. Bond amounts typically include the base bond plus state-mandated surcharges (approx. 50%).

Approved Bonding companies:

• Double O Bonding: 706-353-6467
• Classic City Bonding: 706-354-8655
• Liberty Bonding: 706-613-2000
• Bond James Bond: 706-613-0007

Inmate Communication and Visitation

For those who remain in custody (e.g., awaiting a bond hearing), communication is strictly regulated. The Sheriff’s Office enforces a strict dress code for visitors. Prohibited items include sleeveless tops, skirts shorter than 2 inches above the knee, and see-through clothing.

For real-time inmate status, contact the Clarke County Jail main line at 706-613-3270 or use the option for Booking.