DUI PENALTIES IN TENNESSEE

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE {DUI} CONVICTION?

First Offense DUI offenders the mandatory minimum penalty is at least 48 hours incarceration and one year loss of driving privileges unless your blood alcohol content or BAC was .20 higher then the mandatory jail time increases to a minimum of 7 days. In addition, there is a mandatory minimum fine of $350.00 for the offense. The maximum penalties are incarceration up to 11 months and 29 jails and a $1,500.00 fine. Each subsequent conviction for DUI increases the penalties substantially. T.C.A 55-10-403.

Second Offense DUI offenders are subject to a two year loss of license and a mandatory minimum 45 days in jail. The fine for Second Offense DUI also increases significantly with a minimum fine of $600.00.

Third Offense DUI offenders are subject to a minimum 120 days in jail, substance abuse program, license revocation for 6-10 years and a minimum fine of $1,100.00

Fourth and subsequent DUI offenders are subject to a minimum 150 consecutive days in jail, license revocation for 8 years, fines that range from $3,000.00 to $15,000.00 and is a Class E Felony.

In addition to the penalties above, you can be ordered to have an interlock device installed in your vehicle and required to carry high-risk auto insurance if convicted of DUI substantially adding the overall costs of conviction. There are options for persons convicted of DUI to obtain a restricted Driver’s License after their original license has been suspended. Just because you have a suspended license does not mean that you are unable to obtain a restricted license. A knowledgeable DUI lawyer can help you navigate the courts and obtain the best outcome possible in your specific situation.