Murfreesboro DUI Defense Attorneys
DUI Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you or someone you know has been arrested for drunk driving, naturally you have questions. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions by those arrested in Tennessee for driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol. Every DUI case has different circumstances and facts, so not every question has a straightforward answer. With over two decades of experience practicing DUI law in Murfreesboro, Wilson & Bradley can answer the questions and concerns that apply specifically to your DUI case. Call us today to schedule your free DUI consultation with a Wilson & Bradley DUI defense attorney and take the first step a more positive outcome for your legal situation.
What is DUI?
Tennessee law defines DUI (driving under the influence) as operating any motorized vehicle under the influence of any mind altering or intoxicating substance. These substances include alcohol, marijuana, narcotic drugs, prescription drugs, over the counter drugs and more.
What is BAC?
BAC stands for blood alcohol concentration, which is the amount of alcohol determined to be in your blood. In Tennessee, your BAC level is often determined by a breathalyzer or blood test. If your BAC is tested and registers at 0.08% or above, you are over the legal limit and automatically determined to be driving impaired.
Should I hire a Murfreesboro DUI defense attorney?
If you have been charged with a DUI in Murfreesboro, Smyrna, Christiana, Rutherford County or the surrounding areas, hiring an experienced and knowledgeable DUI attorney will greatly increase your chance for a more positive outcome in your serious legal situation. State and Federal Constitutions protect your rights. A practiced Murfreesboro DUI defense attorney from Wilson & Bradley knows your rights as well as the intricacies of Tennessee DUI laws and will craft that knowledge into a creative and effect defense for your DUI case.
Does a DUI conviction mean I will go to jail?
In Tennessee, all DUI convictions require mandatory jail time, even if it is a first offense, but an experienced Murfreesboro DUI attorney can help you dodge penalties and possibly even jail time all together. The type of DUI charge brought against you and the circumstances surrounding your arrest will determine the extent of the penalties you face. With the expertise of a practiced Murfreesboro DUI attorney from Wilson & Bradley, being charged for a drunk driving offense does not have to mean you will be convicted of DUI.
Will I lose my license?
If you are convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol in Tennessee, you will lose you license. In specific cases you may be eligible for a restricted license, which allows you to drive to work, school, mandated substance or alcohol abuse classes and home. The length of license suspension is determined according to each individual case and often by driver’s previous record.
What are the typical penalties for a DUI in Murfreesboro?
Every DUI case has different circumstances and facts surrounding the arrest that dictate the penalties the Court imposes. Enhanced penalties may be implemented by the court for having a minor in the vehicle at the time of the arrest, refusal to submit to a BAC or other chemical testing, excessive speeding or high BAC levels. Listed below are some of the penalties that you may face if convicted of a DUI charge.
First Time DUI Offense:
First time offenders can receive between 48 hours and 11 months in jail depending on surrounding circumstances. They also face up to one year of license suspension, fines of at least $350 and no more than $1,500.
Second Time DUI Offense:
A second DUI offense constitutes stronger penalties than a first offense. The repeat offender faces 45 days to 1 year in jail, two years of license suspension, fines between $600 and $3,500 and more.
Third Time DUI Offense:
The possible penalties for a third DUI offense includes 120 days to 1 year in jail and license suspension no less than 3 years and no more than 10 years. Other penalties include fines up to $10,000, vehicle confiscation, installation of an ignition interlock device, mandatory litter pick-up and more.
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