A DUI conviction in Nashville, TN, can have serious consequences in your life, including license suspension, hefty fines, and potential jail time. Such an outcome can jeopardize your insurance rates, personal relationships, and employment opportunities.
It is, however, a challenging task to fight a DUI case on your own. Fortunately, hiring a skilled Nashville DUI lawyer, experienced in handling DUI charges, can significantly impact the outcome of your DUI case.
When you partner with a DUI attorney from our law firm, Byron Pugh Legal, you’re not just getting legal counsel; you’re getting a dedicated advocate.
Our criminal defense lawyers are well-versed in DUI law, ensuring you understand the intricate laws regarding DUI offenses and building a robust defense strategy tailored to your specific situation and criminal record.
Moreover, our Nashville DUI attorneys specialize in protecting your driving privileges and working diligently to minimize the penalties associated with DUI offenses.
Facing DUI charges in Nashville? It’s essential to retain the services of an experienced and qualified DUI lawyer.
Our attorneys at Byron Pugh Legal bring years of legal experience, particularly in DUI defense, offering unmatched support, guidance, and expertise to navigate Nashville’s complex legal system.
We commit to protecting your rights at every step, from initial DUI arrest to court appearances, ensuring the best possible representation for your case.
Remember, a DUI charge doesn’t have to lead to a DUI conviction. With Byron Pugh Legal, you get more than just legal representation; you get a dedicated team committed to fighting for your rights and helping you through this challenging time.
Call 615-255-9595 today to set up a FREE initial consultation.
DUIÂ Penalties in Nashville
Potential penalties for DUI in Nashville depend on the circumstances of each DUI case. Remember, if this is your first DUI offense in Nashville, you can still receive jail time. That is why you need to do something about your DUI case and hire a skilled Nashville DUI lawyer.
The state may hold all the evidence. However, hiring the right DUI lawyer can help reduce your charges. Here are the potential penalties for DUI in Nashville:
1st DUI Offense
1st DUI offense is a misdemeanor in Nashville. The penalties include:
- Driver’s License Revocation – 1 year driver’s license revocation
- Fines – $350 to $1,500 fine
- Jail Time – at least 48 consecutive hours and under 11 months and 29 days in county jail.
- Drug and alcohol assessment or treatment
- Attendance at DUI school
2nd DUI Offense
2nd DUI offense is a misdemeanor in Nashville. The penalties include:
- Driver’s License Revocation – 2 years driver’s license revocation
- Fines – $600 to $3,500 fine
- Jail Time – at least 45 consecutive days and under 11 months and 29 days in county jail
- Drug and alcohol assessment or treatment
- Attendance at DUI school
- Possible vehicle seizure
3rd DUI Offense
3rd DUI offense is also a misdemeanor in Nashville. The penalties include:
- Driver’s License Revocation – 6 years driver’s license revocation
- Fines – $1,100 to $10,000 fine
- Jail Time – at least 120 consecutive days and under 11 months & 29 days in county jail
- Drug and alcohol assessment or treatment
- Attendance at DUI school
- Possible vehicle seizure
4th or Subsequent DUI Offense
A 4th or subsequent DUI offense is a felony in Nashville. The penalties include:
- Driver’s License Revocation – 8 years driver’s license revocation
- Fines – $3,000 to $15,000 fine
- Jail Time – at least 150 consecutive days and under 6 years in county jail
- Drug and alcohol assessment or treatment
- Attendance at DUI school
- Possible vehicle seizure
5th DUI Offense
5th DUI offense is a felony in Nashville. The penalties include:
- minimum jail is 150 days – 2 to 12 years in prison
- fines range from $3K-$15k
- license suspended for 8 years
6th DUI Offense
6th DUI offense is a felony in Nashville. The penalties include:
- minimum jail is 150 days – 3 – 15 years in prison
- fines range from $3K-$15k
- license suspended for 8 years
Hiring a Nashville DUI lawyer can significantly affect the outcome of your DUI case. Our criminal defense attorneys at Byron Pugh Legal are experienced in DUI defense and committed to helping you navigate the legal challenges associated with DUI charges. Call 615-255-9595 today for a FREE initial consultation and let us help you fight for your rights.
Defense Strategies That Can Help Your Case
It is crucial to challenge a DUI case since police officers may make mistakes during DUI arrests. If you have criminal defense lawyers who can expose these mistakes, you can beat your DUI charge. It is, therefore, very important to understand the various defense strategies available.
These are the best ways to defend a DUI charge in Nashville:
No Proof of Intoxication
In any DUI case in Nashville, the police are required to provide conclusive proof of intoxication at the time of driving, presenting evidence to substantiate their DUI charges. Challenging this evidence is a critical step for those facing a DUI arrest.
Particularly noteworthy is the scenario where the police find an individual asleep in their vehicle but not actively operating it, casting doubt on when the vehicle was last operated. This situation can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.
Engaging a skilled Nashville DUI lawyer becomes essential under these circumstances. These legal professionals are adept at scrutinizing the prosecution’s evidence, questioning its validity, and leveraging such uncertainties in your favor.
Their expertise in challenging various aspects of the police’s evidence, from the accuracy of breathalyzer tests to the validity of field sobriety tests, can be pivotal in achieving a more favorable outcome in your DUI case. The right DUI attorney in Nashville is crucial for navigating these complexities and ensuring a robust defense against DUI charges.
No Proof Beyond a Reasonable Doubt
In any DUI case in Nashville, the legal standard is clear: the state is obligated to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This high burden of proof is critical in DUI defense.
If you suspect that the evidence against you in your DUI charges does not meet this stringent criterion, enlisting the expertise of a seasoned Nashville DUI lawyer is a strategic move.
An experienced DUI attorney can effectively present your case in front of a jury, challenging the state’s evidence and arguing for reasonable doubt. Their knowledge of DUI laws and courtroom tactics can be instrumental in questioning the prosecution’s case, ultimately aiming to achieve a not guilty verdict or a dismissal of charges.
This approach underscores the importance of having skilled legal representation to navigate the complexities of DUI offenses and protect your rights in the criminal justice system.
Hiring an experienced DUI lawyer from Byron Pugh Legal can be the difference in your DUI case. Our attorneys specialize in DUI defense and are committed to providing the best possible representation to help you fight your DUI charges. Call today for a FREE initial consultation and let us help you build a strong defense.
Testing Equipment Not Maintained Properly
In DUI cases in Nashville, it is imperative for the police to maintain their DUI testing equipment in optimal working condition. Proper maintenance of breathalyzers, blood alcohol content (BAC) machines, and other DUI testing devices is a legal requirement.
If it is found that the testing equipment was not properly maintained, this can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case. A skilled Nashville DUI lawyer can scrutinize the maintenance records of these devices. If irregularities are found, a DUI attorney can argue that the evidence obtained should be deemed inadmissible in court.
This could lead to the prosecutor being unable to use this key evidence against you, potentially resulting in the state failing to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. In some instances, this could even lead to the dismissal of your DUI charges.
It underscores the importance of having a knowledgeable DUI lawyer who can investigate every aspect of your case, including the condition and use of the testing equipment involved in your DUI arrest. Engaging a Nashville DUI attorney ensures that all potential defenses, such as improper maintenance of DUI testing devices, are thoroughly explored.
Hiring an experienced DUI lawyer from Byron Pugh Legal can make a significant difference in your DUI case. Our criminal defense attorneys are adept at examining the intricacies of DUI law and challenging any faulty evidence.
No Right to Arrest
In any DUI arrest in Nashville, the police are legally required to have probable cause to believe that a crime is being or has been committed.
However, instances occur where an arrest for drunk driving might be made without sufficient probable cause. In such situations, if it is demonstrated that the DUI arrest lacked this foundational legal justification, the criminal charges made against you could potentially be dropped.
An experienced Nashville DUI lawyer plays a crucial role in these circumstances. They can meticulously examine the details of your case to ascertain if the requisite probable cause for the DUI charges was present. If not, they can argue for the dismissal of your charges, emphasizing the absence of proper legal grounds for the arrest.
A skilled DUI attorney in Nashville can scrutinize every detail of the DUI arrest, from the initial traffic stop to the breathalyzer test results, to identify any lack of probable cause. They are adept at challenging the evidence and protecting your rights.
Hiring a Nashville DUI lawyer from Byron Pugh Legal ensures that every aspect of your DUI case is thoroughly investigated. This includes examining the police officer’s conduct during the field sobriety tests and the accuracy of the breath test.
If it is found that the DUI arrest was made without sufficient probable cause, your DUI attorney can file a motion to suppress the evidence, which could lead to the dismissal of your DUI charges.
This highlights the importance of seeking qualified legal representation to scrutinize every aspect of your DUI case, ensuring your rights are protected and advocating for a fair legal process.
Blood Test Result is Wrong
Disproving alcohol blood test results in DUI cases can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that these tests are not infallible. In Nashville, where DUI laws are strictly enforced, the accuracy of blood test results can be a critical factor.
There are instances where blood testing procedures may be flawed. Errors can occur in the way the blood sample is obtained, how it’s stored, or even in the interpretation of the results. These procedural issues can significantly impact the outcome of a DUI case.
A skilled Nashville DUI lawyer can scrutinize these procedures for any discrepancies. By examining the chain of custody, the storage conditions, and the methods used to analyze the blood sample, your DUI attorney can uncover potential errors.
By highlighting any procedural inaccuracies or potential misinterpretations of the blood test results, your DUI attorney can challenge the validity of the evidence presented against you. This includes questioning the calibration of testing equipment and the qualifications of the individuals conducting the test.
This approach is essential in cases where the outcome hinges on the reliability of blood alcohol content (BAC) testing. A knowledgeable DUI lawyer in Nashville can present alternative explanations for elevated BAC levels, such as medical conditions or improper testing techniques.
Emphasizing the need for meticulous legal representation in DUI cases, hiring an experienced DUI lawyer from Byron Pugh Legal can make a significant difference. Our criminal defense attorneys are adept at challenging the evidence in DUI cases and ensuring that your rights are protected.
The Breath Test Result is Wrong
During DUI stops in Nashville, police officers commonly administer breath tests on the road to assess a driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC). However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that these roadside breath tests can sometimes be flawed.
Factors such as improper maintenance of the breathalyzer device can lead to inaccurate results. Inaccuracies in these tests can significantly impact the outcome of a DUI case. Issues like calibration errors, environmental factors, and even the driver’s medical conditions can affect the breath test results.
A knowledgeable Nashville DUI lawyer is essential in these scenarios. They have the expertise to challenge the validity of the breath test results, scrutinizing maintenance records, calibration logs, and the procedures followed during the DUI stop.
By questioning the reliability of the breathalyzer results, your DUI attorney can provide a crucial defense in your DUI case. They can argue that the breath test evidence should be deemed inadmissible, potentially leading to a more favorable outcome.
Additionally, a skilled DUI attorney will investigate the qualifications of the officer administering the test, ensuring that proper protocols were followed. This thorough examination can uncover any procedural mistakes that might invalidate the test results.
This underscores the importance of having professional legal representation experienced in navigating the complexities of DUI charges and breathalyzer test evidence. An experienced Nashville DUI lawyer from
Byron Pugh Legal can make a significant difference in the outcome of your DUI case. Our criminal defense attorneys are adept at challenging all aspects of DUI evidence, including breathalyzer tests.
Field Sobriety Tests
Police use field sobriety tests, such as standing on one leg and walk-and-turn tests, to determine if a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, some people might fail these tests due to prescription medications, obesity, or medical conditions, rather than intoxication.
That is why these tests are not always accurate and can be challenged in a DUI case.
If you are looking for the best defense strategies that can help your case, we recommend hiring an experienced and knowledgeable Nashville DUI lawyer. A skilled DUI attorney can scrutinize the administration of these field sobriety tests, questioning the conditions under which they were conducted and the officer’s interpretation of the results.
An experienced Nashville DUI lawyer can argue that factors such as uneven surfaces, poor lighting, and the driver’s health conditions affected the test outcomes. By highlighting these issues, your DUI attorney can challenge the validity of the field sobriety test results, potentially weakening the prosecution’s case against you.
Furthermore, a DUI lawyer can review the police officer’s training and adherence to standardized field sobriety test protocols. Any deviations from these protocols can be used to question the reliability of the test results.
Our DUI attorneys at Byron Pugh Legal have extensive experience in defending clients against DUI charges in Nashville. We understand the complexities of DUI law and the various factors that can impact field sobriety test results. Our criminal defense lawyers are committed to providing the best possible legal representation to help you fight your DUI charges.
How Our Nashville DUI Lawyers Challenge Your Conviction
If you want to get a favorable outcome in your DUI case, you need to retain the services of our team of experienced DUI lawyers. We have successfully handled DUI cases for several years, navigating the complexities of DUI law and aggressively defending our clients.
Investigate Your Arrest
Our Nashville DUI attorneys will thoroughly examine the arrest reports to ensure the police officer followed the law properly. If the police officer did not follow the proper procedure for arresting you or if you were improperly pulled over without probable cause, we can get your DUI case dismissed. This is a crucial step in building a strong defense.
Build a Strong Defense Strategy
We do not recommend fighting a DUI case on your own. You need a robust defense strategy. Thankfully, our DUI lawyers have the necessary resources, skills, and experience to help you build a strong defense. We will challenge the prosecution’s evidence, scrutinizing every detail to reduce or dismiss your DUI charges.
Reduce Your Sentence
In some cases, it may not be possible to get all charges dismissed. In these situations, our DUI attorneys can help reduce your sentence. Making informed decisions is critical, and we are here to guide you through the process, ensuring you understand all your options.
Plea Bargaining
If you are offered a plea bargain, our Nashville DUI lawyers will assist you. A plea bargain can save you time and money, as trials can be lengthy and expensive. Negotiating a plea bargain is not easy, but with our years of experience in criminal law and negotiation, we can help you secure a better deal.
Protect Your Driving Privileges
A DUI conviction can lead to suspension or even revocation of your driver’s license. You probably want to continue driving, but without an experienced DUI lawyer fighting for you, you could end up losing your driving privileges. Our DUI attorneys will challenge the suspension and work to help you get a restricted license if necessary.
If you are facing DUI charges in Nashville, contact Byron Pugh Legal today for a FREE initial consultation. Our dedicated team of criminal defense attorneys will provide the best possible legal representation to help you fight your DUI charges and protect your rights.
Let Byron Pugh Legal Help with Your DUI Case
If you or a family member is facing DUI charges in Nashville, Tennessee, then you need to look for an experienced and knowledgeable DUI lawyer in Nashville. Why? Because a DUI conviction can have a negative impact on your future.
For example, you could lose your job. Losing your source of income can be a stressful and challenging experience.
We highly recommend working with a knowledgeable DUI lawyer. A DUI lawyer understands DUI lawyers. So, your DUI lawyer can help you with the complexities of DUI law, decide whether or not to plea bargain, reduce or avoid jail time, and get your license back.
At Byron Pugh Legal, we understand the complexities of the DUI legal processes. We will help you navigate the complex legal process, understand your legal options, and build a solid criminal defense strategy straight away.
We will ensure your rights are protected at every step.
We are ready to fight to help you get the best possible outcome in your DUI case in Nashville. If you need to speak to our Nashville DUI lawyer, do not hesitate to contact us at 615-255-9595 today. We offer free initial consultation.
Nashville DUI Frequently Asked Questions
When Does a Misdemeanor DUI Become a Felony DUI in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, a misdemeanor DUI can escalate to a felony DUI under certain circumstances. Understanding these conditions is crucial if you are facing DUI charges and need to know how to protect your rights.
Fourth or Subsequent DUI Offense: If you are convicted of a fourth DUI offense, it is automatically classified as a felony in Tennessee. Previous DUI convictions significantly impact the severity of the charges.
Injuries or Fatalities: If your DUI results in serious bodily injury or death, the charges can be elevated to a felony. This includes aggravated vehicular assault or vehicular homicide, which carry severe penalties.
Child Endangerment: Driving under the influence with a minor in the vehicle can lead to felony charges. Tennessee law imposes stricter penalties when a child is endangered during a DUI incident.
High BAC Levels: Extremely high blood alcohol content (BAC) levels at the time of the arrest can also result in enhanced charges, though this is less common compared to the other factors.
Repeat Offenses Within a Short Timeframe: Multiple DUI offenses within a short period can increase the likelihood of facing felony charges. This reflects a pattern of behavior that the courts view more harshly.
Engaging a skilled Nashville DUI lawyer is essential if you are at risk of a felony DUI charge. A knowledgeable DUI attorney can scrutinize the details of your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and work to reduce your charges. They can also explore defenses related to the accuracy of breathalyzer tests, field sobriety tests, and the legality of the traffic stop.
At Byron Pugh Legal, our criminal defense attorneys are experienced in DUI law and committed to providing robust legal representation. We understand the complexities of Tennessee DUI laws and can help you navigate your case, whether it involves a misdemeanor or a potential felony DUI charge.
Will My Driver's License Be Suspended After a DUI Arrest in Nashville?
Yes, your driver’s license can be suspended after a DUI arrest in Nashville. The suspension can occur through two primary processes: administrative suspension and judicial suspension.
Administrative License Suspension (ALS): If you are arrested for a DUI and your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeds the legal limit of 0.08%, the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security can impose an administrative suspension of your driver’s license. This suspension can occur even before your criminal case is resolved. Refusing to submit to a breathalyzer or blood test under Tennessee’s implied consent law can also result in an administrative suspension.
Judicial License Suspension: If you are convicted of a DUI in court, the judge can order a suspension of your driver’s license as part of the penalties. The duration of the suspension depends on whether it is your first offense or a subsequent offense:
- First DUI Offense: A minimum one-year suspension.
- Second DUI Offense: A two-year suspension.
- Third DUI Offense: A six-year suspension.
- Fourth or Subsequent DUI Offense: An eight-year suspension, as it is classified as a felony DUI.
Restricted License: In some cases, you may be eligible for a restricted license, which allows you to drive under specific conditions, such as going to work, school, or medical appointments. Applying for a restricted license usually requires the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle.
Hiring an experienced Nashville DUI lawyer is crucial to navigating the complexities of DUI laws and the potential suspension of your driver’s license. A skilled DUI attorney can challenge the evidence against you, such as the results of breathalyzer tests and field sobriety tests, and work to protect your driving privileges.
At Byron Pugh Legal, our criminal defense attorneys are well-versed in Tennessee DUI laws and committed to providing the best possible legal representation. We will thoroughly investigate your case, advocate for your rights, and help you explore options to minimize the impact on your driving privileges.
Can You Refuse a Breathalyzer Test in Tennessee?
Yes, you can refuse a breathalyzer test in Tennessee, but doing so comes with significant consequences due to the state’s implied consent law. Understanding the implications of refusing a breathalyzer test is crucial if you are facing DUI charges.
Implied Consent Law: Under Tennessee’s implied consent law, by driving on Tennessee roads, you automatically consent to submit to chemical tests, including breathalyzer tests, if law enforcement suspects you are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Refusing to take the test can lead to automatic penalties.
Immediate Consequences:
- License Suspension: If you refuse a breathalyzer test, your driver’s license will be automatically suspended. For a first refusal, the suspension is typically one year. For subsequent refusals, the suspension can be two years or longer.
- Evidence in Court: Refusal to take a breathalyzer test can be used as evidence against you in court. Prosecutors may argue that your refusal indicates consciousness of guilt, potentially strengthening the case against you.
Additional Penalties:
- Fines and Fees: In addition to license suspension, you may face fines and fees associated with the refusal.
- Ignition Interlock Device: You may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle, which prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected on your breath.
DUI Charges: Even if you refuse the breathalyzer test, you can still be charged with a DUI. Law enforcement can use other evidence, such as field sobriety tests, officer observations, and witness statements, to support the DUI charges.
Legal Defense: Hiring an experienced Nashville DUI lawyer is essential if you have refused a breathalyzer test. A skilled DUI attorney can challenge the circumstances of your refusal, the legality of the traffic stop, and the procedures followed by the police. They can also help mitigate the penalties associated with the refusal and build a strong defense for your DUI case.
Restricted License: After a refusal, you might be eligible for a restricted license, allowing you to drive to specific places like work, school, or medical appointments. Obtaining a restricted license usually requires the installation of an ignition interlock device.
