Consequences for Multiple DUIs in TN
Even the possible consequences for a first-time DUI offense in TN are harsh. But if you have a previous DUI conviction, a subsequent or repeat DUI charge will undoubtedly raise the stakes. Your auto insurance rates will significantly increase, and you will face various collateral consequences that create economic, social, and professional barriers for convicted offenders through the denial and restrictions of benefits that everyone else has access to.
The Penalties for Multiple DUIs in TN
TN DUI penalties become harsher with every repeat DUI offense. Here are the penalties you can expect to face:
Second-Time DUI Offense
- A fine of $600 to $3,500
- 45 days up to a year of jail time
- Vehicle forfeiture
- Two-year license revocation
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation at your expense
- Substance abuse treatment programs
Third-Time DUI Offense
- A fine between $1,100 and $10,000
- 120 days up to a year in jail
- Vehicle seizure
- Six-year license revocation
- IID installation
- Substance abuse treatment programs
Fourth and Subsequent DUI Offenses
- A fine of $3,000 to $15,000
- 150 days up to a year in jail
- Vehicle forfeiture
- Eight-year license revocation
- Substance abuse treatment programs
- IID installation
You should also know that if you have two DUI convictions in a five-year period, you must have an IID installed in your vehicle for at least six months after getting your driving privileges back. You must also pay restitution to anyone you harmed during the DUI incident.
It is also crucial to note that the specific factors of your DUI case may increase or mitigate these consequences or make you eligible for alternative sentencing options. For instance, the potential consequences may be different if your situation involves any of the following factors:
- Eligibility for a plea bargain
- Any traffic violations associated with your DUI case
- Open container violations
- Having exceptionally high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) during your arrest
- A passenger under 18 during the DUI incident
- Failing or refusing to submit to breath or blood testing
- Your age
- Driving on a suspended driver’s license during your arrest
- Another person’s injury or death
- Driving a commercial vehicle during the DUI incident
Put simply, the particular details of your DUI case will significantly impact the penalties you may face. For instance, most second-time DUI offenders may qualify for alternative sentencing with an alcohol treatment program and probation instead of incarceration.
If applicable to your case, your Murfreesboro, TN, DUI defense attorney can secure a dismissal of your case or reduce a fourth-time DUI offense, which is a Class E felony, into a misdemeanor. Your attorney can also explore post-conviction remedies that could nullify a prior DUI conviction or reduce your current DUI charge.
Consult With a Seasoned Murfreesboro, TN, DUI Defense Attorney Now
If this is not your first-time DUI offense and you’re facing a repeat DUI charge, you will need a Murfreesboro, TN, DUI defense attorney with experience handling multiple DUI cases who can fight to have your charges dismissed or reduced. Schedule your case evaluation with our Murfreesboro, TN, DUI defense attorney by calling 615-848-2088 or completing our online contact form.