Knoxville DUI Defense Attorney

Experienced DUI Defense in Knox County

If you have been arrested for DUI in or around the greater Knoxville area, your first order of business should be to hire a criminal defense lawyer who is experienced in this area of law. Those arrested for DUI in the state face harsh and damaging consequences that can have far-reaching effects. Bringing in an attorney who understands the technical, scientific, and legal aspects of this offense can significantly affect how your case is resolved. DUI cases can be extremely complex and require extensive knowledge of local prosecutors and judges, as well as superior courtroom skills to ensure you have the best chance of a positive outcome.

At The Bosch Law Firm, P.C., our experienced legal team understands all the moving parts that can be part of any DUI case. We have more than 85 years of combined legal experience, including successfully defending clients against DUI charges. We also have specialized investigative personnel that we can use in any criminal case to help us gather evidence for building an effective defense strategy. We highly advise you to contact us as early as possible in your DUI case so we can work on your behalf.

We pride ourselves on not only understanding the law but also understanding the human element involved in DUI cases. Our team approaches each case with sensitivity to the personal and financial strain our clients may be experiencing. We strive to provide reassurance and clear guidance, ensuring you are supported throughout the legal process.

Have you been arrested for a DUI in Tennessee? Call The Bosch Law Firm, P.C. today at (865) 225-6466 or contact us online to meet with our Knoxville DUI defense attorney!

In Knoxville, defending against DUI charges requires a strategic approach rooted in legal knowledge and meticulous planning. Factors such as the accuracy of breathalyzer tests, the legality of the police stop, and proper handling of evidence are crucial in determining the outcome of a case. At The Bosch Law Firm, P.C., our approach involves diligently examining every aspect of your case to uncover potential errors or missteps during the arrest process.

Our team is well-versed in the Knox County court system and understands the procedural nuances that can impact your case. This local insight allows us to anticipate the strategies of local prosecutors and create tailored defenses that address the unique aspects of the region's legal environment, ensuring a robust defense throughout the process.

What are the DUI Laws in Tennessee?

Under Tennessee law, DUI consists of the following:

• Driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) measuring .08 percent or higher as an adult 21 and older (this is called a “per se” DUI)
• Driving with a BAC of .02 percent or higher when you are under 21
• Driving while under the influence of alcohol and drugs (regardless of your BAC) that impair your ability to drive; drugs can include any substance that affects your central nervous system, from street drugs to prescription drugs and even over-the-counter drugs
• Driving with a BAC of .04 percent or higher as a commercial license holder while driving a commercial vehicle

You can be convicted of a DUI when physically controlling your vehicle, even if you are not moving down the road. In these scenarios, you are considered an impaired driver who cannot operate your vehicle safely.

In addition to these laws, Tennessee has taken a firm stance on DUI offenses, incorporating measures such as the installation of ignition interlock devices to prevent convicted individuals from being able to operate their vehicles with alcohol in their system. Everyone facing a DUI charge should be aware of not just the immediate penalties but the long-term implications of these convictions.

DUI Penalties in Tennessee

Your penalties for DUI will depend on whether you are facing a first, second, third, or subsequent offense. First offenses are the most common and can carry the following penalties:

• 48 hours up to 11 months and 29 days of jail time; 48 hours is the mandatory minimum time you will spend in jail
• If your BAC measured .15% or more, the minimum jail time increases to seven days
• Loss of your license for a year
• A fine ranging between $350 to $1,500
• Completion of a substance abuse assessment and any relevant alcohol/drug treatment program
• Mandatory ignition interlock system installed in your car at your own expense

During the suspension of your driver’s license, you may be permitted to have a temporary restricted license which allows you to travel back and forth to work, school, or any treatment program you may be undergoing. You may be required to have the ignition interlock system for this purpose.

Comprehending these penalties is crucial because each DUI offense can carry additional repercussions, such as increased insurance rates and the loss of specific job opportunities. Understanding what lies ahead can prepare you and help in mitigating these impacts with the right legal assistance.

Dealing with Multiple DUI Convictions in Knoxville

Second, third, and subsequent convictions are severe matters in Tennessee that will drive up your jail or prison time, increase fines, and invoke more restricted sanctions from the court. For example, a second conviction will result in a minimum of 45 days of jail time, with fines of $600 up to $3,500 and a license suspension of two years. Third convictions result in even harsher jail time, fines, and license suspensions.

For repeat offenders, the courts have even stricter measures that can lead to lifetime driving bans and considerable financial burdens. Multiple offenses indicate a pattern of behavior that the system aims to correct through progressively harsher penalties. Enlisting experienced legal counsel is crucial in navigating these complexities and seeking programs or interventions that might mitigate severe outcomes.

Tennessee's Implied Consent Law

Under Tennessee law, you are required to take a chemical test when arrested for DUI. This is part of the “implied consent” factor when you accept a state driver’s license. If you refuse, you will face a one-year license suspension on a first refusal and a two-year license suspension on a second refusal. A third refusal within ten years could result in a six-year license suspension.

The implied consent law underscores the state's zero-tolerance stance against impaired driving. Understanding your rights and obligations when stopped or arrested helps in making informed decisions and potentially reducing additional penalties from refusals.