How Does a Prior DUI Conviction Affect My Current Case in Nashville?
DUI arrests are on the rise, with law enforcement looking for telltale signs of motorists being impaired behind the wheel. If you have been charged with a DUI, a previous conviction may increase the fine imposed, jail time, and length of your license suspension if convicted. A previous conviction is likely to have an impact on how a prosecutor approaches your case, making them less inclined to negotiate a plea bargain with your attorney.
To secure the best possible case outcome, the Nashville DUI attorneys at Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, are prepared to defend your rights. If you have recently been arrested or charged with a DUI, do not hesitate to reach out to our Nashville office immediately.
Increased Jail Time
A first-time DUI offender will be sentenced to a minimum of 48 hours in jail. A second-time DUI offender will have a minimum sentence of 45 days. A third-time offender will be sentenced to 120 days. First-, second-, and third-time DUI offenses are considered misdemeanors, with the offender facing a maximum imprisonment of 11 months and 29 days. If there are any injuries or fatalities as a result of your drunk driving, the penalties will increase.
Steeper Fines
With increased jail time for subsequent offenses comes steeper fines. While a first-time DUI conviction could result in a potential $1,500, a second-time DUI offense incurs a $3,500 mandatory fine. For a third-time DUI offense, the court may impose mandatory fines of $1,100 to $10,000. For a fourth or subsequent offense, you can expect mandatory fines of $3,000 to $15,000.
Longer License Suspension
If it is your first DUI offense, your driver’s license will be revoked for one year, with a restricted license available. For a second DUI offense, your license will be revoked for two years, still with the option to drive on a restricted license. For a third offense, your license will be revoked for six years, and for a fourth DUI offense, license revocation will be eight years, both with the option of applying for a restricted license.
However, if you are charged with vehicular assault (seriously injuring another person while driving under the influence), then you will not be eligible for a restricted license. If you have prior DUI offenses, then your license may be revoked for up to five years.
Experienced Counsel Advocating for You
Given that a prosecutor is more likely to offer you a plea bargain if you have no prior record, any criminal history is bound to work against you. If you do have a prior record, that does not automatically mean that you are ineligible for a plea deal, but rather that your defense attorney will need to work that much harder for you.
At Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, our Nashville DUI lawyers have experience in securing plea bargains by poking “holes” in the government’s case. In identifying issues in the prosecution’s evidence, our DUI lawyers are often able to place reasonable doubt in jurors’ minds, weakening the prosecution’s case. Once the prosecution’s case-in-chief has no merit, our attorneys may be able to persuade a prosecutor to offer a reduced sentence.
Reach Out to Our Nashville DUI Lawyers Today
If you have been accused of driving under the influence, your reputation may be at stake. At Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, our Nashville DUI attorneys are dedicated to helping you maintain your freedom. If you have a prior DUI conviction or criminal history, you need to acquire aggressive representation to safeguard your rights. To schedule your free consultation, contact us online or by phone today.