How To Fight DUI Charges Based on Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are a standard set of physical and cognitive exercises that Tennessee police officers use during traffic stops to help gauge impairment. Standard FSTs include the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, the Walk-and-Turn test, and the One-Leg Stand test. These are designed to measure balance, coordination, divided attention, and eye movement control. In […]
Can I Still Drive After Being Arrested for DUI in Tennessee?
A DUI charge can cast a shadow of doubt on your daily life, making every errand, commute, or family obligation feel uncertain. One of the most common questions people have is whether they can continue driving while their case is pending. Before you assume the worst, know that there are ways to protect your right […]
Can You Really Get A DUI In A Parked Car In Tennessee?
Many people assume that parking their car and stepping away from the driver’s seat is enough to avoid a DUI. It seems logical—after all, if you’re not driving, how could you be charged with driving under the influence? Unfortunately, Tennessee law isn’t quite that simple. Even if your vehicle is parked, you could still face […]
How Tennessee Handles Multiple DUI Offenses
Getting one DUI in Tennessee is bad enough—but when you’re facing multiple DUI charges, the stakes rise quickly. Tennessee’s laws are tough on repeat offenders, with escalating penalties that can lead to long-term jail time, higher fines, and the loss of your driving privileges for years. This guide will show you how to navigate the […]
What Is Probable Cause? A Guide To Understanding Your Rights
Probable cause is one of the most misunderstood concepts in criminal law. Many people believe that as long as an officer “feels” something is wrong, they can stop, search, or arrest you. But the law sets a much higher standard. Probable cause isn’t about a hunch—it’s about having solid evidence that a crime has occurred […]
Can Police Search Your Car Based on Smell Alone? What Tennessee’s 2024 Ruling Means for You
In a recent decision, the Tennessee Supreme Court addressed a key issue for criminal defense: can police rely on the plain smell of marijuana to justify a vehicle search when a police officer and/or canine dog cannot distinguish between legal hemp and illegal marijuana? In State of Tennessee v. Andre JuJuan Lee Green, the Court […]
5 Common Mistakes Police Officers Make During Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are used by law enforcement to assess a driver’s potential impairment due to alcohol or drugs. These tests, including the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus, Walk and Turn, and One-Leg Stand, evaluate coordination, balance, and attention. However, errors in test administration can significantly impact the validity of results, potentially leading to unjust DUI […]
How a DUI Conviction Affects Professional Jobs In Tennessee
A DUI conviction is more than just a legal headache—it’s a potential career catastrophe. For professionals in Tennessee, the consequences extend far beyond fines and possible jail time. Your security clearance, your position at high-security facilities like Y-12 or ORNL, or even your medical license could be at stake. In this blog, we’ll explore the […]
Can You Get A DUI For Having An Open Container In Tennessee?
Are you at risk of a DUI charge if caught with an open container of alcohol in your vehicle in Tennessee? Whether you’re a driver or a passenger, knowing what constitutes an open container violation and the associated penalties can help you avoid unexpected legal trouble. In this blog, we’ll dive into the specifics of […]
How Tennessee’s New DUI Law Could Affect You
Tennessee has recently enacted a significant change to its DUI laws, lowering the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) threshold for enhanced penalties from 0.20% to 0.15%. This adjustment means that first-time DUI offenders with a BAC of 0.15% or higher now face a mandatory minimum jail sentence of seven (7) consecutive days. Drivers in Tennessee need […]
