A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge is a serious matter in the state of Tennessee. If you’re facing your first DUI offense, it’s crucial to understand the penalties you could face and how a DUI defense lawyer can help protect your rights. At Barnes & Fersten one of the main focuses of our practice is understanding the law and science specific to defending DUI charges. DUI cases present unique issued not often found in other criminal defense cases, including blood and breath testing for blood alcohol concentration, the administration of standardized field sobriety tests, and the complex law surrounding giving or refusing to give a chemical test.
Tennessee law takes a hard line on DUI offenses and carries some of the harshest penalties nationwide for a first-time offenders. Here’s a brief rundown of what you might face if you are convicted of DUI in Knoxville and the surrounding counties:
Tennessee law requires a mandatory minimum of 48 hours in jail if you're convicted of a DUI 1st offense. This period can extend to 7 days if your blood alcohol content (BAC) was .20% or higher. Other aggravating factors, like having a child in the car or causing injury can increase jail time.
The fines for a DUI 1st offense range from a mandatory minimum of $350, up to $1,500 and the court costs that are added to these fines are often in the range of $500-$1,000.
If convicted, your driver's license will be revoked for one year. You'll need to complete a DUI education program, pay a reinstatement fee, and in most cases, install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle for a year to regain your driving privileges.
If any person or property was harmed as a result of the DUI, you may also be required to pay restitution. Your car insurance can often cover some of these costs and only certain financial damages can be charge to restitution.
In addition to jail time, you may be placed on probation, which includes regular check-ins with a probation officer and adherence to certain rules.
If you’ve been charged with a DUI, you don’t have to face this difficult time alone. Our experienced DUI defense lawyers in Knoxville, TN can provide crucial assistance:
Often that phone call will be followed by a meeting in our office, or virtually if it is more convenient for you so that we can begin strategizing your defense.
In addition to mounting a strong legal defense, we will get to know you and your unique personal circumstances. Often things like the effect a conviction would have on your job and family, your proactive steps in dealing with any underlying substance issues, and your previous criminal history or lack thereof, as well as your accomplishments will be important in reaching the best possible outcome in your case.
If you’ve been charged with a DUI 1st offense in Knox, Blount, Sevier, Anderson, Roane, Loudon, Jefferson or Union County, don’t delay in seeking legal help. At Barnes & Fersten our Knoxville DUI defense lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and helping you navigate this challenging situation. Contact us today at (865) 805-5703 for a free consultation.
Barnes & Fersten PLLC was founded with you, our future client, as the focal point. We work hard every day to deliver each client a high-quality, personalized and aggressive representation.
