Knoxville First DUI Attorney

Protecting Your Driving Privileges with Aggressive DUI Defense in TN

Being charged with DUI can be a devastating experience. Not only could your license be suspended for a year, but you could also face jail sentencing of at least 48 hours, fines, and the problems that come with having a criminal record. At Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz, we can help you fight the charges and protect your case. Our Knoxville first DUI attorney has handled hundreds of cases successfully. Let us fight for you.

Arrested for your first DUI in Tennessee? 
Call (865) 896-9971 now or contact our firm online to put aggressive, experienced defense on your side.

What is the Most Common Sentence for a First DUI?

Tennessee law outlines specific penalties for individuals convicted of driving under the influence. If you are convicted of a first DUI offense, the consequences may vary depending on your blood alcohol content (BAC) level and whether any aggravating factors were involved. A Knoxville first DUI attorney can help you navigate the penalties and help mitigate the impact of the charge.

For a first DUI offense in Tennessee, the penalties typically include:

• Fines: A first-time DUI offender can face fines ranging from $350 to $1,500.
• License Suspension: Your driver’s license may be suspended for up to one year. However, you may be eligible for a restricted license after a certain period, allowing you to drive to work, school, or other essential places.
• Jail Time: Jail sentences for a first DUI offense can range from 48 hours to 11 months and 29 days. However, in some cases, a first-time offender may be able to avoid jail time by participating in a rehabilitation program or complying with other conditions set by the court.
• DUI Education and Alcohol Treatment: Depending on the case, you may be required to attend a DUI education program or an alcohol treatment program, which typically involves counseling and classes.
• Community Service: You may be required to complete community service hours as part of your sentence.
• Ignition Interlock Device: In some cases, a court may require the installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle at your own expense.

The exact penalties depend on several factors, including whether you refused to submit to a breath or blood test and your BAC level at the time of the arrest. A Knoxville DUI defense lawyer will review all of these factors and fight for the best possible outcome based on your circumstances.

How to Beat a DUI Charge in Tennessee?

Just because you are charged with a crime does not mean you are guilty. Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz has helped clients to get their charges reduced or even dropped by investigating the evidence and checking for errors made by law enforcement. If, for example, a police officer pulled you over without cause, the evidence they obtain could be thrown out of your case.

Other effective defense methods include:

• Contesting the accuracy of testing methods and equipment
• Seeking a plea bargain to avoid losing your license
• Contesting the charges alleged to obtain more favorable sentencing

If you are convicted, you will likely have to have an ignition interlock device installed. While this is an inconvenience, it allows you to continue driving by providing a blood alcohol content (BAC) measurement in order to start your car. Make sure you have an experienced Knoxville first DUI attorney who can help you exercise all your legal options.

Can a DUI Be Reduced in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, a DUI charge is serious, but it may be possible to reduce the charges depending on the circumstances. A reduction typically involves negotiations with the prosecution, and it may require pleading guilty to a lesser offense.

One of the most common reductions is to a "wet reckless" charge, which is a lesser charge than DUI. However, Tennessee does not allow for DUI charges to be reduced to reckless driving under most circumstances.

A reduction may also be possible if there were issues with the legality of the stop, field sobriety tests, or blood alcohol content (BAC) testing. A DUI defense lawyer in Knoxville can assess your case and work with the prosecution to potentially reduce your charges.

Does a DUI Fall Off Your Record in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, a DUI conviction remains on your criminal record permanently unless you qualify for expungement. However, expungement of a DUI is not typically available under Tennessee law. This means the conviction will remain visible on background checks, which can impact employment, housing, and other aspects of your life. If you're seeking to clear your record, it's crucial to consult with a knowledgeable attorney about possible options.

Why Choose Our Knoxville's Based Law Firm?

When your rights are on the line, it is natural to feel nervous, confused, and alone. Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz is here to stand with you and fight for your rights. We have fostered helpful relationships with local legal personnel, and we know how to leverage them on your behalf. By requesting evidence from law enforcement, we may be able to find errors that will give you a better outcome for your case.

If you are facing charges for first offense DUI in TN, don’t wait to contact our Knoxville first DUI lawyer by calling (865) 896-9971 or by email. We are available 24/7.