Skilled DUI Defense Attorneys In Sevierville
Tennessee enforces strict penalties for motorists who drive under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol. This includes having “physical control” of their vehicle, which can mean sitting in the driver’s seat with the engine running. If convicted of DUI, individuals may face severe legal consequences such as fines, license suspension and potential jail time.
Because of this, it is crucial to seek legal representation early. With meticulous preparation and a solid defense strategy, the accused individual and their legal team can work together to efficiently and successfully mitigate the negative effects of having a criminal record.
We are White & White, Attorneys at Law, a family-run criminal defense law firm in Tennessee devoted to offering compassionate counsel and legal support to families within our community. Since 2003, we have been helping our clients across Sevier County, Blount County, Knox County and throughout Eastern Tennessee navigate their DUI, theft, or drug-related misdemeanor and felony offenses with ease and confidence.
Why Choose Our DUI Defense Law Firm?
At White & White, Attorneys at Law, we can help. Our lead attorney, Mr. Brandon White, has extensive criminal defense experience, having handled cases ranging from traffic violations and DUI to rape and murder. He has managed many criminal cases in multiple counties, some of which have been decided by the Tennessee Supreme Court and helped to shape Tennessee criminal defense law.
With attorney Brandon’s impeccable knowledge of the legal landscape, he can help you understand your rights and the potential penalties of your DUI charge, assess the evidence used against you and build a robust defense that can effectively mitigate the severity of your drunk driving case’s legal consequences. When you hire us for your case, our legal team will relentlessly advocate for your rights and your freedom.
Drug Impairment Charges In Tennessee
Drunk driving in Tennessee is not the only reason you can get charged with DUI. If a local police officer pulls you over for suspicion of driving while impaired by controlled substances, prescription medications or marijuana, they can look for physical and behavioral signs of drug use such as:
- Slurred speech
- Glassy or bloodshot eyes
- Disorientation or confusion
- Visible tremors
- Coordination problems
If you are under the influence of drugs, they will draw your blood to confirm their initial assessment. After this process, they will bring you to the station for DUI booking, where they will document and log your fingerprints, personal information and mugshot for court processing.
However, a drug DUI arrest does not make you guilty of the act. To be convicted, the prosecution must be able to prove that the drugs in your system affected your ability to safely operate your vehicle. A skilled lawyer can help protect your rights and challenge the prosecution’s statements by gathering evidence, collecting witness statements and building a strong defense strategy.
The Potential Penalties For DUI In Tennessee
The legal penalties for DUI will depend on your record and if there were signs of other aggravating factors, such as an elevated blood alcohol content (BAC), a child passenger, or injury or death to another person.
- First offense: There is a mandatory minimum of 48-hour jail time that can extend for up to seven days if your BAC is at least .15%. You will also receive a one-year license revocation, a fine ranging from $350 to $1,500 and mandatory participation in a DUI education program.
- Second offense: There is a mandatory minimum 45-day jail sentence, a two-year license revocation and a fine that ranges from $600 to $3,500. If your second offense occurred within five years of your first DUI conviction, your car may be subject to seizure and forfeiture.
- Third offense: There is a mandatory minimum 120-day jail sentence, three to 10-year license revocation and a fine that ranges from $1,100 to $10,000. After jail, you may be placed on probation to complete the remainder of your sentence.
It is important to note that a fourth offense in Tennessee is a Class E felony. Aside from your one to six-year prison sentence, your DUI conviction will also create a permanent criminal record that can affect your future career and housing prospects, your right to possess firearms, your social reputation, and your personal relationships.
Reach Out To Our Trusted Drunk Driving Defense Lawyers Today
Being arrested for drunk or drugged driving is a scary experience. To ensure you can protect your legal rights and your freedom, early intervention is crucial. Call our criminal defense law firm today at 865-622-7768 to book a free initial consultation with one of our dedicated lawyers.
If you or your loved one cannot travel to our Seymour office, we can arrange a home visit at your convenience. You may also use our online contact form to send us a confidential email.
