Ways a DUI Conviction Can Affect Your Life

 Posted on October 07, 2023 in DUI/DWI/BUI

Most people know that driving under the influence (DUI) in Tennessee can result in arrests and criminal charges. However, you might not realize just how serious the consequences of a DUI conviction can be. Even a first-time DUI can affect your life in many costly ways

For a chance at obtaining the best possible outcome of your DUI case, seek help from a Knoxville DUI defense attorney immediately following an arrest.

Court-Ordered Penalties for DUI in Tennessee

Tennessee law sets out many different DUI charges, each with its own potential penalties the court can order upon conviction. If you are convicted of DUI, you might face:

• Costly fines
• Time in jail
• Probation
• Loss of your driver’s license
• Substance abuse education or treatment

These penalties alone can impact your life, but there are also many additional consequences you might face for a Tennessee DUI

Other Consequences of DUI

In addition to court-ordered penalties, a DUI conviction can have far-reaching collateral consequences beyond the immediate legal penalties. The following can impact various aspects of your life, possibly for years following a DUI conviction:

• Employment - A DUI conviction may lead to job loss, especially for those whose employment involves driving or requires a clean criminal record.
• Professional licensing - Some professions, such as healthcare, law, and transportation, require specific licensing. A DUI conviction may lead to license suspension or revocation.
• Education and scholarships - Students with a DUI conviction may face difficulties in gaining admission to certain educational institutions or obtaining scholarships.
• Housing - Landlords and property management companies may conduct background checks, and a DUI conviction may affect a person's ability to secure housing.
• Auto insurance rates - A DUI conviction often leads to significantly higher auto insurance premiums or even policy cancellation.
• Child custody and visitation - Family courts may consider a DUI conviction when making decisions about child custody and visitation rights.
• Immigration status - Non-U.S. citizens, including visa holders and permanent residents, may face deportation, inadmissibility, or visa denial due to a DUI conviction.
• Travel restrictions - Some countries, such as Canada, may bar entry to individuals with a DUI conviction. Even within the U.S., certain states may have restrictions on travel with a DUI record.
• Financial consequences - Aside from fines and legal fees, a DUI conviction can lead to increased costs for transportation, legal representation, and other related expenses.
• Social stigma - A DUI conviction can carry a significant social stigma, potentially impacting personal relationships and reputation.

These collateral consequences can often last well beyond when you complete your court-ordered sentence. It is critical to avoid a DUI conviction whenever possible, and seeking criminal defense counsel is crucial

Seek Help from Our Knoxville, TN DUI Defense Attorneys Right Away

A skilled DUI attorney from our firm can help you minimize - or eliminate - the consequences of a DUI charge. We can explore all possible avenues to mitigate the long-term effects of a DUI conviction and fight against a conviction in the first place.

The Knoxville, TN DUI defense attorneys of Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney are ready to begin building the strongest possible defense for you. Call 865-281-1000 or contact us online for more information today. Consultations are free.