If you’ve been charged with DUI in Robertson County, you may feel overwhelmed by the legal process. Finding the right attorney is critical, and it can seem challenging to locate someone who is not only experienced but also available when you need them most. If you’ve been arrested for a DUI in or around Springfield, Greenbrier, or Coopertown, having the right legal representation is key to navigating the complexities of DUI charges.
Why Hire a DUI Lawyer for Your Defense?
A DUI charge can carry severe consequences, including jail time, hefty fines, and the loss of your driving privileges. It’s important to act quickly and consult with a qualified DUI lawyer in Robertson County to help minimize these impacts. The experienced team here at Herbert & Lux will evaluate the details of your case and develop a defense strategy to protect your rights and potentially reduce the penalties you face.
The DUI Process in Tennessee: What You Need to Know
Being charged with a DUI can be a worrying experience. Understanding the legal process can help reduce some of that uncertainty. Here’s a look at how the DUI process typically unfolds in Tennessee:
- Arraignment: This is where you will formally enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
- Discovery: Both parties exchange evidence related to the case.
- Motions: Your attorney may file motions to challenge certain evidence or even ask for the charges to be dropped.
- Plea Negotiation: Your attorney may attempt to negotiate a lesser charge or reduced penalties with the prosecution.
- Trial: If no plea deal can be made, your case will proceed to trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the court will determine the appropriate penalties.
Navigating these steps can be complicated, but the team at Herbert & Lux are familiar with the local courts and legal process and can make a significant difference in achieving the best possible outcome.
Challenging DUI Evidence: Blood and Sobriety Test Accuracy
When it comes to DUI charges, the evidence against you may include blood test results or field sobriety tests. In many cases, these tests are not as foolproof as they may seem. An attorney can closely examine the methods used to collect and test this evidence.
For example, blood tests can be challenged if there were issues with the collection or handling process. This could include improper storage of the sample or errors in the testing procedure. We will investigate these details thoroughly to identify any flaws that may weaken the case against you.
Field sobriety tests can also be challenged. Various factors, including improper administration by the officer or physical conditions that impact your ability to perform the test, can be used to question the reliability of the results.
Repeat DUI Offenses: More Severe Penalties in Tennessee
If you’ve been convicted of DUI in the past, you’re likely aware that the penalties for subsequent convictions are far more severe. In Tennessee, the penalties increase significantly after a second or third offense, which is why it’s crucial to have a strong defense in place.
- Second DUI Conviction: A second conviction may result in a two-year license revocation and fines up to $2,000 more than for a first offense. Jail time of at least 45 days is also possible.
- Third DUI Conviction: A third conviction can lead to a license revocation of up to 10 years, with no chance for a restricted license. The court may also seize your vehicle and impose fines of up to $10,000.
Implied Consent Law in Tennessee: What You Should Know
Tennessee’s Implied Consent Law requires drivers to submit to chemical testing if arrested for a DUI. Refusal to take a breath or blood test can lead to the suspension of your driver’s license and additional penalties. This is true even if you have not been convicted of DUI.
Our team of DUI attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of Tennessee’s Implied Consent Law and challenge any tests that may have been improperly administered. Whether it’s a breath, blood, or field sobriety test, we’ll thoroughly review every detail to ensure that no mistakes were made in the process.
Long-Term Impact of a DUI Conviction on Your Record
A DUI conviction in Tennessee can stay on your record permanently, affecting your criminal history and potentially your future. Unlike other states, Tennessee does not offer expungement for DUI convictions. This means that even after you have served your sentence, the conviction will remain visible on your record.
If you are facing a DUI charge, it is essential to have an experienced attorney by your side to explore all potential defense strategies. Our team is here to assess your case, examine the evidence, and help minimize the impact a DUI conviction may have on your future.
Contact Herbert & Lux for Help with Your DUI Case
If you’re facing a DUI charge in Robertson County, it’s crucial to have an experienced attorney to protect your rights. At Herbert & Lux, we serve clients in Springfield, Greenbrier, Coopertown, and the surrounding areas. Our team is committed to providing strong, strategic defense against DUI charges. Whether you are dealing with a first-time offense or facing more severe penalties for multiple offenses, we’re here to help.
