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Understanding the Elements of DUI Charges and Penalties in Tennessee

Elements of DUI Charges and Penalties in Tennessee | Criminal Defense Lawyers in Knoxville | Knox Defense

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Tennessee, although a Class A misdemeanor like shoplifting, assault, and simple possession, is significantly more complex in terms of its elements and punishment. Unlike other crimes, a DUI charge can sometimes be based solely on an officer’s opinion. The offense is detailed in Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-10-403 and…

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DUI by Consent in TN

DUI by Consent | Knoxville Criminal Defense Lawyers | Knox Defense

DUI by consent, also known as DUI by proxy, in the state of Tennessee is a driving under the influence law that charges the owner or passenger of a vehicle with a DUI. In other words, if a person is driving a vehicle owned by someone else and commits a DUI offense, vehicular homicide or…

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Tennessee Implied Consent Law

Implied Consent Law in Tennessee | Knoxville DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys | Knox Defense

When you see the dreaded flashing lights behind you, one of the things you need to think about is Tennessee’s implied consent law. In addition to penalties for driving violations and driving under the influence, you can also face penalties if you violate Tennessee’s implied consent law when you’re investigated for drunk or drugged driving.…

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DUI Penalties & Fines

DUI Penalties & Fines | Knoxville Criminal Defense and DUI Lawyers | Knox Defense

The state of Tennessee takes DUIs seriously. DUIs come with harsh mandatory sentences, stiff fines, and life-altering restrictions on your ability to drive. If you’ve been charged with a DUI, the punishment you’re facing, if convicted, depends on your prior DUI record. Let’s break down the possibilities. Penalties & Fines for 1st Time DUI When…

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Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Limits in Tennessee

BAC Limits in Tennessee

While on the surface BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) limits seems like a simple enough topic – get a DUI conviction if you’re over the limit, scot-free if you’re under – it’s actually a little more complicated than that. Now, while the legal limit in Tennessee is cut and dry, your BAC as a determining factor…

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DUI Fact Sheet

DUI Facts

As a driver in the state of Tennessee, it is important to know your rights if you are pulled over and suspected of driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The penalties for a DUI can be harsh, expensive, and inconvenient, so being prepared for this unfortunate situation and knowing what to do…

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First Offense DUI in Tennessee

First Offense DUI | Knoxville Criminal Defense Lawyers | Knox Defense

A first-time DUI offense in Tennessee is no small matter. While technically a misdemeanor in Tennessee, a DUI charge can come with a plethora of consequences, including: jail time, suspension of license, court costs, fines, community service, higher insurance rates, and adverse effects on your career. And that’s just naming a few. Arming yourself with…

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Consequences of a Third Offense DUI in Tennessee

3rd DUI Offense | Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorneys | Knox Defense

Any DUI conviction carries serious consequences, but the stakes are even higher for a third offense. In Tennessee, a third-offense DUI leads to substantial jail time, extended license suspension, and hefty fines. Understanding these penalties is crucial, especially given the mandatory nature of the consequences. Criminal Penalties for a Third DUI Offense A third DUI…

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DUI Plea Bargaining in Tennessee: Options and Outcomes

DUI Plea Bargaining | Knoxville Criminal Defense Lawyers | Knox Defense

Facing DUI charges in Tennessee can result in severe penalties, whether it’s your first offense or you’re a repeat offender. Convictions often lead to mandatory jail time, hefty fines, and license suspension, depending on the specifics of the case and any prior convictions. In some situations, negotiating a plea agreement might be the best course…

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Understanding DUI Laws for Minors in Tennessee

DUI Laws Surrounding Minors | Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorneys | Knox Defense

In Tennessee, minors suspected of driving under the influence face different legal standards and penalties compared to adults. For individuals under 21, the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.02 percent, significantly lower than the 0.08 percent limit for adults. Depending on their age, minors may be charged with either a delinquent act or Underage…

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