Joshua T. Crain Law Blog

How Long Do Most DUI Cases Take?

DUI charges in Tennessee are serious charges, and a conviction can impact your future in a serious way. While you would naturally like to put the matter behind you as quickly as possible, doing so does not necessarily protect your legal rights – or support your brightest future. If you are in the difficult position of facing a DUI charge, don’t wait to consult with an experienced Tennessee DUI defense attorney.

The DUI Charge

Tennessee has some of the harshest DUI – or driving under the influence – laws in the nation. If you are convicted of DUI, you can expect a mandatory 48-hour jail sentence as well as required participation in an alcohol and drug education program. Paying restitution and having an ignition interlock device installed may also be required, and this is not to mention license revocation of up to a year.

In Tennessee – like elsewhere in the United States – DUI charges are based on the driver having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 percent or higher. The charge can also apply when one’s driving is negatively affected by alcohol – according to the police – even if their BAC is under the limit.

While you can accept the DUI charge levied against you and whatever legal repercussions that entails and move on with your life, it isn’t advised, and all told, the consequences are likely to reach much farther into your future than defending your legal rights would. The basic steps forward include:

Often, first offenses are resolved at this initial hearing, such as by reaching a plea bargain or a charge reduction with the prosecution.

Your attorney will skillfully negotiate with the state for a resolution that serves your best interests. Or, if the evidence backing your claim of innocence is very strong or if the state refuses to budge, your legal counsel may advise you to proceed to court.

Ultimately, preserving your legal rights and effecting a favorable resolution is more important than shaving time off the legal process. However, your skilled attorney will also do what it takes to help ensure that your case moves effectively and efficiently forward.

Discuss Your Case with an Experienced Tennessee DUI Defense Attorney Today

Josh Crain at The Law Offices of Joshua T. Crain is a Tennessee DUI defense attorney who has helped many clients minimize the legal and social consequences of DUI charges and encourages you to reach out for the skilled legal guidance you’re looking for. To learn more about what we can do to help you, please don’t wait to contact us online or call 615-903-4998 today.