Georgia Hospital Will Not Perform Blood Tests on DUI Suspects Without Consent

Police and prosecutors in four Georgia counties may have their efforts to punish intoxicated drivers hampered by a hospital system policy. This policy, which would prohibit hospital staff from performing blood tests on DUI suspects, has frustrated the attempts of law enforcement to collect evidence to perform their investigations.

WellStar Healthcare System, the hospital implementing this new policy, will no longer draw blood from patients without their express consent. Even in the face of a court order, the hospital cannot be compelled to take the sample. However, if police present a search warrant, the hospital will continue to draw blood samples from unconscious DUI suspects under Georgia's implied consent law.

Blood test results are a major factor in DUI convictions. Because many DUI suspects are refusing to consent to blood tests, police are having a much more difficult time obtaining the evidence they need to secure a conviction. While WellStar cites safety concerns in its defense of this policy, they maintain that they will cooperate with police and will not restrict law enforcement from interfering with the policy if they have a warrant.

Facing DUI Charges? Call Us Today!

If you are suspected of DUI, you have a constitutional right not to incriminate yourself, and cannot be forced to submit to a blood test without your consent. If you are facing charges, politely refuse the test and contact the Law Offices of Richard S. Lawson right away.

With more than two decades of experience, our skilled team is comprised of a former DUI prosecutor and an aggressive DUI defense attorney who have successfully handled countless DUI cases. We have a reputation in our community for providing the highest quality legal counsel and delivering exceptional outcomes. When you retain our services, we can help take care of your DUI case quickly so that you can get back to your life as soon as possible.

Remember, just because you have been arrested does not mean that you are guilty. Let us defend your rights, freedoms, and driving privileges. We offer free initial consultations, so contact our Atlanta DUI attorneys today at (404) 816-4440. We proudly represent individuals in Atlanta and throughout the state of Georgia.