How Serious Is A DUI?

Drunk driving has been the number one cause of road deaths in the state of Tennessee since 2012. According to the law, a DUI is a misdemeanor case, but it dealt with much promptly with more severity than other misdemeanor cases. 

The reason it is dealt with in this way is that a person driving under the influence put everyone else on the road in danger, including themselves. A DUI is therefore considered as a serious crime. A DUI as a first-time offense will not get you a harsh punishment unless there are other details to your case.

If it is your first time to be charged with a DUI, but you had a child in the car, or you caused an accident, then you might need to hire a Nashville DUI lawyer. In most cases, when it is just you who has been caught by the police, you might end up paying a fine along with other court penalties. 

Hiring a DUI lawyer is advisable because they have the most experience dealing with DUI cases than a general practice lawyer. Even if it is your first time, you consult a Nashville DUI lawyer for advice on how to go about your situation and get you the best deal. 

If you are found guilty or plead guilty to a DUI offense these are the possible punishments to expect:

•   $350 fine together with court costs
•   Revoked driver’s license for a year
•   Attend alcohol safety school
•   Community service for 24hrs
•   11 months, 29 days supervised probation
•   Suspended sentence for 11 months, 29 days
•   Installed ignition interlock device if your BAC is found to be above 0.20
•   A minimum of 48 hours in jail (mandatory)

As mentioned above, if there are other factors within your case like an accident, you will probably receive a harsher sentence regardless of being a first-time offender. 

If in the process you get your driving license revoked it will require a process for you to get it back. Most drunk drivers would rather not have their driving privileges taken away; that is why they hire a DUI lawyer to help keep their licenses.  

It is also important to note that a DUI will be on your record permanently if you are found guilty or plead guilty to a DUI. This can limit your employment opportunities and affect your future, especially if it is a repeat offense. 

A DUI charge is worse if you are underage. Underage drinking on its own is an offense, so being charged with a DUI makes the situation worse. In a case where the BCA tests are low, you will still be penalized for underage drinking. You are likely to serve the following sentences:

•   $250 fine
•   Community service 
•   Revoked license for a year

Getting your license back is not always easy. You have to go through several tests to prove that it is safe for you and everybody else on the road if your license is reinstated. To receive proper representation, contact a DUI lawyer near you.