Being caught driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Tennessee is a serious matter. If this is your first exposure to the criminal courts you are likely quite intimidated, and rightfully so. Facing serious criminal charges can be a life-changing event.
The courts and public opinion are incredibly tough on people accused of drunk driving. If you are facing a DUI charge in Tennessee you probably already feel as if you are being judged. When it seems like everyone is out to get you, we can be the legal professionals on your side.
“There is No Way I Was Drunk When I Was Driving”
We believe you, and see people in your situational all the time. DUI is a charge where over-arrested is common. That’s what happens when cops are given awards from MADD for how many people they arrest for drunk driving. They will often arrest people if they have the slightest suspicion that you could be drunk.
Field sobriety tests are designed for people to fail. Plenty of sober people can’t do stressful, high stakes tests by the side of the road. And if you had bad knees, legs, feet, are overweight, or any number of other conditions – you won’t pass under any circumstances. Yet, you’ll be arrested based on this “evidence”.
“I Made a Dumb Mistake And I Want this Over Quickly”
That’s understandable. Many people who admit they were guilty feel terrible, and are completely embarrassed. You may have been watching the game with friends or leaving a holiday party when you got pulled over. You probably underestimated how much you had to drink and are now facing the consequences. We understand that people make mistakes and want to help you through this trying time.
But that doesn’t mean you deserve a harsh penalty. Everyone deserves fair treatment under the law, and a second chance. So if you want to plead guilty, we absolutely understand, and we will help you to get minimal penalties and license loss. An attorney on your side in court may be able to save you significant penalties, and will make sure you are treated fairly and properly by the courts.
Understand that A DUI conviction brings serious penalties. You will likely lose your license for a period and could serve time in jail. The possibility of spending time behind bars is enough to stress anyone out. Contact us to discuss how we can help you when facing a DUI charge in Tennessee.
Driving Under the Influence / Tennessee DUI Laws
It is illegal to drive while under the influence of any drug, or alcohol if your blood alcohol content is .08% or above.
Penalties for DUI in Tennessee
For a first offense DUI conviction there are several potential sentencing options for the judge to consider, many of them mandatory.
- Mandatory 1 year drivers license revocation
- Mandatory fine of $350- $1,500
- Mandatory highway litter removal
- Mandatory drug and alcohol assessment as well as fees
- Up to one year in jail
- DUI school
- Community Service
Ref: TCA 55-10-403
An experienced Tennessee DUI attorney can often help you get probation in lieu of jail time. If you are granted probation, you will likely have to deal with additional terms like:
- Mandatory employment
- Restriction from bars and establishments that serve alcohol
- Random drug and alcohol testing
- Counseling and/or alcohol treatment
While probation is certainly preferable to jail time, we know that you are probably not thrilled at the prospect of either. When facing serious DUI charges, you must be able to trust that you have the best attorney on your side.
Owner DUI
You can be charged with owner DUI under Tennessee law if you knowingly allow an impaired person to drive your vehicle. These charges can be extremely serious, especially in cases of accident, injury, or vehicular homicide. As the owner, you may also be charged for covering up someone’s drunk driving after such an accident.
The prosecution will have to prove that you absolutely knew that the person was impaired, so it isn’t always an easy case to make, but the result are serious. Please contact us for a consultation to work out what you may be facing for a Tennessee owner DUI offense.
Free Case Evaluation and Consultation on any Tennessee DUI Charges
We can gain your confidence with our experience and your trust with our dedication. We are interested in your case and in helping you get a positive outcome in court. Call to speak with us about the charges you are facing.