If you have been arrested for DUI in Tennessee, you face a variety of consequences. The laws change often and your defenses can be complex. Factors such as your age, the type of license you have, any statements you made and the circumstances around your stop and arrest can all impact your case.
It can be difficult for someone who has never faced the criminal system to get a handle on what exactly you’re being charged with, what the process looks like, how to defend yourself and what the consequences are likely to be. This is because DUI law is extremely nuanced and considers factors such as:
Biology
Medicine
Toxicology
Science behind the way alcohol processes within the body
Legal issues surrounding the stop of your vehicle
The way field sobriety tests are conducted
An evaluation of your constitutional protections
Sentencing issues and probation requirements can also be confusing to figure out. For example, it is possible to serve 12 months in jail on a first arrest but the reality is many people never have to spend more time in jail on a DUI Arrest.
A lawyer provides you with education around the legal process and an effective defense, and will also serve as your guide through a difficult to navigate system.
You can rely on Attorney Sunny Eaton for the defense you deserve.
She has handled hundreds of DUI cases, prevailing in trials and negotiating settlements that have helped her clients get back to living their lives without the stress of facing a criminal charge.
Common Questions
What is Implied Consent, and what is the penalty if I am charged with it?
An Implied Consent charge is issued when someone refuses to submit to a blood alcohol test. Penalties for an Implied Consent charge include:
Revocation of Drivers License for 1 year - 1st offense
Revocation of Drivers License for 2 years - 2nd offense
Revocation of Drivers License for 2 years if crash resulted in bodily injury (Most Aggravated Drunk Driving Law)
Revocation of Drivers License for 5 years if crash resulted in a death (Most Aggravated Drunk Driving Law)
What are the penalties for a first time DUI in Tennessee?
Minimum Jail Time of 48 hours up to 11 months and 29 days, maximum
.20 BAC or greater carries minimum jail time of at least 7 consecutive days
License revocation for 1 year – Restricted License Available with installation of an Ignition Interlock device
Alcohol Safety School
Pay restitution to any person suffering physical injury or personal loss
$350-$1,500 fine
With towing, bail/bond, attorney, high risk insurance, court costs,probation fees, school, and license reinstatement fees, your first offense average costs could add up to $10,000
Ignition Interlock Device installed at your expense. Minimum first year costs could exceed $1,000.00
If two (2) convictions of DUI in 5 years, Ignition Interlock Device required for 6 months after reinstatement at your expense
Victims Impact Panel
24 hours of community service work
What are the penalties for a second DUI in Tennessee?
45 days to 11 months, 29 days in jail
$600-$3,500 mandatory fine
License revocation for 2 years/Restricted License available
Subject to vehicle seizure/forfeiture
You will be ordered to attend an alcohol and drug treatment program
Ignition Interlock Device installed at your expense
If two (2) convictions of DUI in 5 years, Ignition Interlock Device required for 6 months after reinstatement at your expense
Pay restitution to any person suffering personal injury or loss
What are the penalties for a third DUI in Tennessee?
120 days to 11 months, 29 days in jail
$1,100 to $10,000 mandatory fines
License revocation for 6 years/Restricted license available
Subject to vehicle seizure/forfeiture
Alcohol and drug treatment program
Ignition Interlock Device installed at your expense
If two (2) convictions of DUI in 5 years, Ignition Interlock Device required for 6 months after reinstatement at your expense
