What are the Potential Consequences of a DUI Conviction in Nashville, Tennessee?
Each year, more than one million arrests are made for driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Impaired driving places the lives of all road users in danger, which is why law enforcement is dedicated to pursuing drivers they suspect are under the influence. In Tennessee, driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or greater constitutes a DUI offense. While being arrested or charged for a DUI can be terrifying, if convicted, you may be jailed, fined, have your license suspended, and even be up against long-term consequences.
At Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, our Nashville DUI lawyers understand the challenges that come with crafting winning defense strategies against a DUI charge. If you are facing allegations of a DUI, do not hesitate to give us a call.
Jail Time
A first-time DUI offender will be sentenced to a minimum of 48 hours in jail, with the potential for 11 months and 29 days. If you have a blood alcohol level of 0.15% or greater, then you will be sentenced to at least seven consecutive days in jail. Subsequent offenders will face increased prison time, with a fourth DUI being considered a felony, punishable by a jail sentence of one year and a minimum of 150 consecutive days served.
Fines and Restitution
A first-time DUI offense carries fines between $350 and $1,500, with mandatory fines increasing substantially for subsequent offenses. A felony DUI comes with mandatory fines between $3,000 to $15,000. However, if your drunk driving caused someone bodily injury, then you may be ordered to compensate the victim for lost income, medical expenses, and other damages. This compensation is known as restitution, which must be paid in full by the completion of your sentence.
Loss of Driving Privileges
A person who is convicted for a first-time DUI in Tennessee will face one year of license suspension. A second-time DUI offense involves a two-year license suspension, with a third-time DUI offense involving a six-year license suspension. If you are a fourth or subsequent DUI offender, your license will be revoked for eight years.
Defending Your Future Interests
Do not think that once your sentence is served, your DUI violation will be behind you. A DUI conviction will make it more difficult to obtain employment and rent an apartment and may cost you visitation or custody rights. Nobody should be punished indefinitely for one misstep, but unfortunately, our justice system is notoriously unforgiving.
A criminal conviction requires that your guilt be established beyond a reasonable doubt. At Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, our Nashville DUI lawyers are former prosecutors, allowing us to identify the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. This gives our clients a much-needed advantage in the courtroom. Our DUI lawyers are not afraid to question breathalyzer tests or field sobriety tests, placing reasonable doubt in the judge’s or jury’s minds.
Charged with a DUI? Contact Our Nashville DUI Attorneys Today
Our legal team understands what is at stake: not solely defending your right to stay out of prison but your civil liberties moving forward. If you have recently been charged with a DUI, Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, is here to defend your interests. Our Nashville DUI lawyers have helped hundreds of clients maintain their freedom and reputation and are happy to assist you. To schedule your free consultation or to learn more, contact us online or by phone today.