Drunk driving fatalities have fallen over 30% in the last 30 years, but a DUI is as serious as ever. DUI accidents claim over 10,000 lives per year and cost more than $44 billion in damages. If you find yourself facing a harsh sentence for a lapse in judgment, a Jungers Law Firm attorney in Nashville is here to assist you.
Tennessee law states that drivers must maintain a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) below 0.08 percent. Individuals under the age of 21 must have a BAC below 0.02 percent. If an officer suspects you are over the legal limit, they will pull you over, perform different tests, and detain you.
The most common test is a Standardized Field Sobriety Test. It comes in three parts: the horizontal gaze nystagmus, walking and turning, and standing on one leg. If you fail these tasks, the officer will read your rights and offer to perform a breathalyzer test.
Drunk driving leads to a loss of driving privileges. For instance, if you fail the breathalyzer, you cannot drive for at least one year because you broke Tennessee's Implied Consent Law. Other potential penalties for your first DUI include:
The penalties only get harsher for repeat offenders. The minimum jail time extends to 45 days, and the mandatory fine jumps from $600 to $3,500 for a second DUI. Individuals may also lose possession of their car and be required to pay restitution for financial loss, property damage, or personal injury.
A DUI attorney helps you navigate the legal system and avoid the harshest penalties. They walk you through each step and ensure the process goes smoothly. Their primary responsibility is preparing you for court, so you understand what to expect during your appearance.
They’ll handle all the paperwork and details, so you don't have to. That includes obtaining SR-22 auto insurance and filing documents with the local DMV. Your attorney may recommend taking an alcohol safety class or entering a treatment program to get ahead of potential penalties.
Private representation lets your DUI attorney handle most of the necessary court appearances for you. That way, you can reduce your time in court and avoid missing work. Another advantage of a DUI attorney is you get more one-on-one time receiving counsel than you would with a public defender.
While it’s tempting to defend yourself in a DUI case, it’s rarely a good idea. Let our skilled DUI attorneys in Nashville handle your case. We have the skill and legal knowledge you need. Contact us for a consultation today.