Have You Been Arrested For Drunk Driving?

Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is a serious crime in Tennessee. A DUI conviction means you were drinking alcohol or using narcotic or prescription drugs that impaired your ability to drive safely.

The Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security estimates that a DUI conviction could cost you $5,000 in penalties and fines. Those costs could reach $10,000 if you do not qualify for a restricted driver license that allows you to drive to work during your suspension. Moreover, because DUI is at least a misdemeanor under most circumstances, a conviction means you have a criminal record.

While it can be tempting to underestimate the seriousness of these charges, even first-time offenders in Clarksville face serious consequences and should consult the experienced criminal defenders at the Kennedy Law Firm, PLLC.

Why you need an attorney

Do not simply plead guilty to DUI charges without first consulting a Clarksville DUI lawyer at the Kennedy Law Firm, PLLC. In Tennessee, a first-time DUI offender faces the following penalties and other adverse effects:

A fine ranging from $350 to $1,500
A jail sentence ranging from 48 hours to 11 months and 29 days
A one-year license revocation
Court costs

Towing and vehicle storage fees
Alcohol education program enrollment
Driver license reinstatement fees
Ignition interlock program costs
Higher insurance premiums

More severe penalties are imposed in both states for subsequent offenses and for refusing to submit to a breath, blood or urine test.

Our proven DUI defense strategies

Our Clarksville DUI defense lawyers use several effective legal strategies to defend against these serious charges:

Reviewing and challenging the legality of traffic stops
Carefully reviewing and challenging state evidence
Using expert testimony to challenge roadside sobriety tests

Examining chain-of-custody documentation for evidence
Finding improper use or maintenance of breath-measurement devices
Impugning police officer testimony

If our investigation uncovers weaknesses in the case, we aggressively can pursue dismissal, acquittal or a favorable plea bargain. If the evidence against you is strong, our attorneys may still negotiate with the state prosecutor to downgrade the charge, minimize the penalties or both based on your good character and history. Our Clarksville DUI lawyers can discuss alternatives with you so you can decide how you want your case to proceed.

We are committed to helping good people caught in bad situations

A DUI arrest can be a frightening experience. Moreover, the subsequent prosecution can feel like it is consuming your life. At the Kennedy Law Firm, PLLC, we understand the kind of impact these charges can have. That is why you can expect our full commitment and trust our attorneys to be with you every step of the way. If you have been arrested for DUI in Tennessee, call our firm today at 931-444-5620 or contact us online to set up a free consultation at one of our three Clarksville office locations.