If you have recently gotten a DUI, you're probably confused and wondering what happens next. This is a common and hard occurrence, and it's important to find a way to move forward. To preface, laws in each state may differ in the process, so this is regarding the laws and practices in the state of Tennessee.
There are many factors in the severity of the case to consider. Factors such as age, BAC (blood alcohol concentration), previous convictions, and so on will affect your case in this matter.
Anyone under 21 who receives a DUI will get their license revoked for one year, receive a fine, and will probably have to at least do community service.
Tennessee is a "zero tolerance" state, meaning even if you don't feel drunk they will base their findings on your BAC. The BAC is essential in these cases because if it is higher than .20, your penalties will be much higher.
A first DUI will result in jail time, a fine, and your license being revoked for one year. Along with this, you may be required to attend a drug and alcohol treatment program. Tennessee requires first-time offenders to receive jail time. Jail time varies from a few days to almost a year.
A second offense is obviously not as lenient. The jail time minimum increases to 45 days, the fine is heftier, and your license will be revoked for two years. Even after these two years, you could be required to only leave for essential activities (work, school, etc.) Along with these consequences, your vehicle can be confiscated.
For a third offense, the same consequences remain but with more severe timelines and fines. You could end up without a license for 6 years, with no possibility of getting a license for essential activities. The third offense will land you more jail time and more fines.
There are, of course, other factors that can land you more jail time. These are things like vehicular homicide, vehicular assault, and so on. At this point, you definitely need to find an attorney to help you.
If you are in this situation and are trying to find specific solutions to your individual case, it's best to hire a lawyer. You can look for a DUI lawyer in Kno???????xville. These attorneys handle the cases in a professional way, which makes the process that much easier for you.
In conclusion, you don't have to go through this rough season by yourself. DUIs often stem from a much bigger problem, and that shouldn't ruin your future.
In order to protect your rights and future, find some help from an attorney. They can't erase the problem, but they can help.
