Knoxville DUI Attorney

Driving under the influence carries stiff penalties in Tennessee, just as it does in other state. The first step to getting the best defense is to get a top Knoxville DUI attorney.

According to Tennessee law you are intoxicated if you have a blood alcohol content at .08% or more. Even with no evidence of impairment, this amount of alcohol is enough to get convicted in Tennessee.

However, speaking to a Knoxville DUI attorney will help you understand your rights and ways to avoid conviction.

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In some cases, the arresting officer's testimony can earn you a conviction even when you refuse to have a sobriety test done. The officer could testify that you showed signs of inebriation by your driving habits, the smell of alcohol, or other signs. In court, the officer will likely be asked to offer his opinion. Opinions normally carry very little weight in the court room.

It's important that when you speak to a Knoxville DUI attorney that you explain the situation fully so he can find ways to cast doubt on the officer's opinion.

If it's the first offense and no one was injured, a DUI charge can lead to a misdemeanor. But each conviction makes it more serious. After four convictions the charge is raised to a class E felony. A good Knoxville DUI attorney will help you understand how severe your case is.

He will also include you in the decision-making process and help you understand the legal terminology. In a first time offense there is a minimum jail requirement of 48 hours with a maximum of one year. If your blood alcohol content was .20% or higher you will be required to serve at least 7 days in jail.

Working with a qualified attorney can save you jail time and heavy fines. Once you have been convicted of the DUI charge in Tennessee you will be subject to not only the jail time but at least a $350 fine as well as a suspended license for 1 year minimum. The courts are now also requiring the defendant to enroll in DUI education courses and also attend regular AA meetings.

The Knoxville DUI attorney is able to ease the fines, jail time, and suspension times. You will also be able to discuss other pleas, such as reckless operation of a vehicle, or failure to control.

It's imperative to let a qualified Knoxville DUI attorney work for you. Whether it's your first offense or a repeat offense, you need help. Trying to go it alone or working with an inexperienced attorney can be a recipe for disaster.

Remember, these tests are far from perfect and having an experienced and knowledgeable Knoxville DUI attorney can mean the difference between jail time, fines, loss of license and reputation or acquittal.