McMinn County DUI Attorneys - Barnes & Fersten

Experienced DUI Defense in McMinn County

Have You Been Arrested For DUI in McMinn County?

Our McMinn County DUI attorneys have a proven track record defending clients in Athens and all across East Tennessee. 

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McMinn County DUI Defense Lawyers

Facing DUI charges in McMinn County? Don’t underestimate what’s at stake. A conviction can leave a lasting mark on your life—harming your career, straining your finances, and limiting your future. Without a strong defense, you could be facing penalties that can follow you for years, including:

  • Time behind bars – Even a first-time DUI can result in mandatory jail time, while repeat offenses carry even harsher penalties.
  • Financial hardship – DUI fines, legal fees, and significantly higher insurance costs can have long-term financial consequences.
  • A criminal record that follows you – A conviction can impact your ability to get a job, rent an apartment, apply for loans, or hold a professional license.

But remember: being charged with DUI is not the same as being convicted. With the right legal team in your corner, you can fight back. At Barnes & Fersten, we know how to challenge the prosecution’s case, question unreliable evidence, and craft a defense that protects your rights—and your future.

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If you’ve been charged with DUI in McMinn County—whether in Athens, Etowah, or elsewhere—you need more than just legal advice. You need a DUI defense team that knows the local court system, understands how prosecutors approach these cases, and has a proven track record of fighting DUI charges in East Tennessee.

At Barnes & Fersten, we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach to DUI charges. Whether this is your first offense or you’ve faced DUI charges before, we dig deep into the details of your case to build a personalized, strategic defense. From examining whether police had the right to stop your vehicle to challenging field sobriety test results, our attorneys know how to find cracks in the prosecution’s case and use them to your advantage.

Why Choose Barnes & Fersten as Your McMinn County DUI Defense Attorneys?

✅ Proven Success Across East Tennessee

Our attorneys have successfully defended DUI cases in McMinn County and throughout East Tennessee. Whether it’s avoiding license suspension, negotiating reduced charges, or securing case dismissals, we know how to build effective defenses that get results.

✅ Tennessee’s Most Trusted DUI Defense Team

Click here to read what clients are saying on Google!

With over 240 5-star reviews, Barnes & Fersten is one of East Tennessee’s most trusted criminal defense firms. We’re known not only for our results, but for how we treat our clients—with honesty, transparency, and relentless dedication from start to finish.

✅ Local Experience That Gives You The Edge

Navigating the legal system in McMinn County takes more than legal knowledge—it requires insight into how local judges, prosecutors, and court staff operate. We use our experience in Athens and surrounding areas to anticipate the prosecution’s tactics and build defenses tailored to the local courtroom.

✅ A Defense Strategy Built For You

No two DUI cases are identical. Whether you’re facing a first-time DUI, a felony DUI charge, or allegations involving substances like marijuana or prescription medications, we take a personalized, fact-driven approach to your defense—always aiming for the best possible resolution.

How Do Our DUI Attorneys Consistently Deliver Exceptional Results?

Click here to read some of our case successes!

  1. Challenge the reason for the stop and evaluate the reliability of field sobriety and breath tests, exposing procedural flaws or inaccuracies.
  2. Argue lack of probable cause for arrests, vehicle searches, or property seizures to weaken the prosecution’s case.
  3. Collaborate as a team to thoroughly review every piece of evidence in your case. By analyzing all discovery materials, we uncover hidden defenses and create leverage to secure reduced charges or case dismissals.
  4. Present compelling alternative narratives, such as self-defense in assault cases or disproving possession in felony and misdemeanor drug-related charges.
  5. Suppress unlawfully obtained evidence or statements, including those made without proper Miranda warnings or due process.

Our goal is simple: to minimize or eliminate the charges against you while safeguarding your rights at every step.

I want to express the most gratitude to Barnes & Fersten for their exceptional assistance with my legal troubles. They not only achieved an outcome that exceeded my expectations but also made the entire process seamless and manageable. From start to finish, they ensured I was well-informed, providing me with all the details necessary to understand each aspect of my case. Their professionalism, clear communication, and dedication to my best interests made a challenging situation much easier to navigate. I couldn’t have asked for better representation.
Jason Q.
Jason Q.Google Review
We are so thankful we hired Barnes and Fersten. Brandon was extremely professional and guided us through a very challenging and stressful time. We put our complete faith in him and his abilities and he did not disappoint. Everything went smoothly and just as he explained to us that it would. We would definitely recommend him to anyone looking for excellent legal advice or expertise.
Myriah L.
Myriah L.Google Review
Mr. Fersten and his team did a phenomenal job handling my case. Brandon really puts his all into helping his clients get the best possible outcome without backing down. 10/10 would definitely recommend. Thank you to the team for standing by my side and pushing through this very difficult time in my life resulting in a dismissal of all charges! You all are the best! Forever grateful.
Amber B.
Amber B.Google Review
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Frequently Asked Questions

Not necessarily. With the help of a skilled McMinn County DUI attorney, you may be able to retain your driving privileges by challenging the charges or applying for a restricted license.

The cost of a DUI attorney depends on the complexity of your case. At Barnes & Fersten, we offer transparent pricing and a free consultation to discuss your specific situation.

Yes, a DUI charge can be dismissed if there are errors in the arrest procedure, problems with evidence, or violations of your rights. Our McMinn County DUI lawyers thoroughly review every detail to build a strong defense.

Penalties for a DUI conviction in McMinn County may include mandatory jail time, license suspension, heavy fines, mandatory DUI education, community service and increased insurance premiums. The severity depends on your specific case.

Most first-time DUIs are misdemeanors, but aggravating factors like prior offenses or causing injury can elevate the charge to a felony. Our DUI attorneys in McMinn County can help clarify your charges and defend you accordingly.

A DUI conviction in Tennessee cannot be expunged and will remain on your record permanently. This is why it’s crucial to fight the charges with a skilled DUI defense attorney in McMinn County.

Take Charge Of Your Defense – Contact Us Today!

A DUI charge doesn’t have to be the end of the road, but the actions you take now will shape the outcome of your case. Time is critical—the prosecution is already building its case, and you need a defense team that knows how to fight back.

At Barnes & Fersten, we do more than just represent you—we fight relentlessly to protect your rights, your record, and your future. Whether you’re facing DUI charges in Athens, McMinn County, or anywhere in East Tennessee, we have the experience, local knowledge, and strategic approach needed to secure the best possible outcome for you.

📞 Call 865-805-5703 today to get started.
📝 Or complete the form below to schedule your FREE consultation.