Nashville DUI Penalties
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Many times I am asked what are the effects of a DUI, is it all that bad? It depends on what your definition of bad really is, there are several consequences of a DUI, and there is the inability to have it removed from your record.
The issue most people ask is, how much jail time? In Tennessee it is a mandatory 48 hours for a first offense DUI, and 45 days mandatory for second offense DUI. You will receive credit for the time you serve before you make bond, ie how many hours you sat in jail before you were free to leave.
Do I lose my license? Yes, you will lose your license for one year upon your conviction for a DUI in Tennessee. However, you are generally eligable for a restricted license, this license comes with many restrictions, and they all must be followed, or you will be in violation of your agreement with the State of Tennessee regarding your license.
Litter pick up on the highways, is that really a punishment they enforce? Yes and no, some jurisdictions do not have the funds to impliment this program, so sometimes it is possible to agree with the State of Tennessee that this is not going to be required of you, if you are convicted of a DUI. The program of litter pick up requires you to work 24 hours, over the course of 3 days picking up litter on the highway wearing a DUI vest.
Alcohol safety school, is there such a thing? Yes, alcohol safety school is required of all persons convicted of a DUI in Tennessee, there are schools in Nashville, Knoxville, Memphis, Chattanooga, and many schools in all the smaller jurisdictions. You must attend and complete this school under a first offense DUI.
The fines and court costs, how much? Generally you are looking at fines and court costs in excess of $1,300.00 dollars, and you will be required to obtain SR22 insurance discussed below. Some jurisdictions will allow you to apply for your restricted license before all of your court costs are paid.
These are a few of the penalties and problems that go along with a Nashville DUI, should you wish to have your case reviewed please give me a call at (615) 308-2633. I would be pleased to speak with you.
Daniel L. McMurtry, Esq.
