Norris DUI Defense Lawyer
Attorney Defending Clients Against Drunk Driving Charges in Norris, TN
People who are charged with driving under the influence (DUI) will face multiple types of serious penalties. It is important to understand the implications of a DUI charge and the legal options for defending against a conviction and a driver's license suspension. An experienced attorney can be a crucial asset when dealing with DUI charges. At Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney, our knowledgeable lawyers help people who have been charged with DUI navigate the complexities of the legal system and work towards the best possible outcomes in their cases. We provide compassionate representation, focusing on the unique circumstances of each case to ensure that our clients' rights are protected. In addition to providing representation in DUI cases in Norris and the surrounding areas, we assist with cases involving accusations of boating under the influence (BUI) on Norris Lake.
Penalties for DUI in Tennessee
Tennessee law imposes stringent penalties for DUI offenses, with escalating consequences for repeat offenders. These penalties may include:
- First-time DUI: A minimum of 48 hours in jail and a maximum of 11 months and 29 days, fines of $350 to $1,500, revocation of driving privileges for one year, mandatory attendance at a DUI education program, and the requirement to use an ignition interlock device (IID) when driving.
- Second DUI: A minimum of 45 days in jail, with a maximum of 11 months and 29 days, fines between $600 and $3,500, driver's license revocation for two years, mandatory drug or alcohol treatment, and the requirement to use an IID.
- Third DUI: A jail sentence of 120 days to 11 months and 29 days, fines of $1,100 to $10,000, driver's license revocation for six years, mandatory drug or alcohol treatment, and the requirement to use an IID.
- Subsequent DUIs: Class E felony charges with a minimum sentence of one year in jail that includes 150 consecutive days, fines between $3,000 and $15,000, license revocation for eight years, mandatory drug or alcohol treatment, and the requirement to use an IID.
Other Types of DUI Cases
Tennessee law addresses other types of DUI offenses, including:
- Marijuana DUI: Driving under the influence of marijuana is treated similarly to driving under the influence of alcohol. The presence of THC in the driver's blood can lead to a DUI charge, regardless of impairment levels.
- Felony DUI: A DUI may be charged as a felony if it involves significant aggravating factors, such as an accident resulting in serious injury or death. Felony DUI charges carry severe consequences, including extended prison sentences, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record.
- Commercial driver DUI: People who hold commercial driver's licenses are subject to stricter requirements, and they could be charged with DUI if they have a blood alcohol content of .04 percent, which is half the legal limit for other drivers. Commercial drivers who are convicted of DUI may face a CDL disqualification of one year for a first offense or a lifetime disqualification for a second offense. This may limit their future employment opportunities.
- Underage DWI: Tennessee has a zero-tolerance policy regarding alcohol or drug use for drivers under the age of 21. A minor who has any detectable amount of alcohol or drugs in their system may be charged with driving while impaired (DWI). The penalties for this offense include a fine of $250, suspension of driving privileges for one year, and mandatory community service.
Boating Under the Influence
Tennessee law imposes penalties for operating boats or watercraft while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The same legal limits for blood alcohol content apply for boat operators as for drivers of motor vehicles. Similar penalties will also apply for those who are convicted of BUI, including thousands of dollars in fines, jail time of up to one year, suspension of boat operating privileges for one year, mandatory participation in alcohol or drug treatment programs and boating and alcohol safety courses, and community service.
Our firm can provide representation for people who have been charged with BUI or other related offenses on Norris Lake. We can assist with incidents that occur at or around the many marinas on the lake:
- Beach Island Resort & Marina, including Bubba Brew's Sports Bar & Grill
- Cedar Grove Marina
- Straight Creek Marina
- Norris Landing Marina
- Lone Mountain Marina
- Lakeview Marina
- Hickory Star Marina
- Waterside Marina
- Stardust Marina
- Norris Dam Marina
- Mountain Lake Marina
- Twin Cove Marina
- Sequoyah Marina
- Shanghai Resort
- Sugar Hollow Marina
- Springs Dock Resort
- Powell Valley Resort
- Flat Hollow Resort
- Blue Springs Boat Dock
- Union County Marina
- Whitman Hollow Marina
- Bo's Indian River Marina
Contact Our Norris DUI Defense Attorneys
At Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney, we provide comprehensive legal representation for people charged with DUI or BUI in Norris and throughout Anderson County, Union County, and Campbell County. We have a deep understanding of Tennessee DUI laws, and we are committed to helping our clients resolve their cases successfully while minimizing the penalties that may affect their finances, their driver's licenses, their careers, and other aspects of their lives. Contact us today at 865-281-1000 for a free consultation and take the first step towards resolving your DUI case.