Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Tennessee, and it comes with tough penalties. If you’re facing a DUI charge, knowing what’s ahead can help you prepare. At Talley Law Firm in Dandridge, TN, we work with clients to help them navigate the legal system. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the DUI penalties in Tennessee, so you know what to expect.
DUI Laws in Tennessee
Tennessee law considers a driver impaired if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. This standard applies to drivers aged 21 and over. However, for commercial drivers, the limit drops to 0.04%. For drivers under 21, any detectable level of alcohol can lead to a DUI charge.
First Offense DUI Penalties
A first-time DUI conviction can have significant consequences.
To start with, fines range from $350 to $1,500. On top of that, you’ll likely spend a minimum of 48 hours in jail. If your BAC is particularly high, the judge could sentence you to as much as 11 months and 29 days.
You’ll also face a license suspension, which typically lasts for one year. Fortunately, after part of your suspension has been served, you can apply for a restricted license to regain limited driving privileges.
In many cases, the court will also require you to complete community service, ranging from 24 to 40 hours. Additionally, you might be enrolled in a DUI education program to better understand the dangers of driving under the influence.
Second Offense DUI Penalties
When a second DUI happens within ten years of the first, the penalties increase.
Fines for a second offense jump to between $600 and $3,500. Jail time also becomes more severe, with a minimum of 45 days and the possibility of nearly a full year behind bars.
A second offense will likely cost you your license for two years. However, after part of this suspension, it’s possible to apply for a restricted license. This could allow you to travel to work or school.
Community service is also a requirement for a second offense, with courts typically assigning between 40 and 80 hours. The DUI education program, in this case, will be more intensive than the one required for a first-time offender.
Third Offense DUI Penalties
A third DUI offense carries even steeper penalties, including hefty fines between $1,100 and $10,000. In terms of jail time, the minimum is 120 days, but you could face the same 11-month, 29-day maximum as earlier offenses.
This time, the license suspension could range from three to ten years, depending on your case. While community service will likely be required again, courts often assign between 80 and 100 hours.
A third DUI offense also demands participation in a mandatory DUI education program, which will aim to discourage further violations.
Aggravated DUI Charges
Some circumstances lead to aggravated DUI charges, which come with even harsher consequences. If you have a passenger under 18, drive recklessly, or cause injury or death, your penalties could be much more severe.
Penalties for Aggravated DUI
Aggravated DUI charges result in heavier penalties. For example, jail sentences can range from one to 15 years, depending on the case. Fines can also exceed $15,000 in these instances. Additionally, a conviction can lead to a prolonged suspension of your driving privileges for several years or even a permanent revocation.
Why Legal Help Matters
Facing DUI charges on your own can be overwhelming. The penalties, as we’ve seen, are not just financial—they can affect your freedom, your career, and your personal life. For this reason, working with an experienced attorney is critical.
Talley Law Firm in Dandridge, TN has years of experience handling DUI cases. We help clients navigate the legal system and work to reduce the severity of penalties wherever possible. Whether it’s negotiating a lesser charge or protecting your rights in court, having an attorney on your side can make all the difference.
Conclusion
Tennessee’s DUI penalties are strict, but understanding them is the first step to protecting your future. If you find yourself facing DUI charges, whether it’s your first or third offense, knowing the potential consequences can help you make better decisions about your case.
If you or someone you know has been charged with a DUI, it’s important to seek legal help right away. Talley Law Firm in Dandridge, TN, is here to guide you through the process. Our DUI lawyers are ready to fight for the best possible outcome in your case, contact them today at (865) 397-9878 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation.
