If you've been arrested for DUI, you're probably worried about going to jail, losing your license, or having a conviction follow you for years. You may also be wondering whether there's any way to fight the charge, especially if the police say you failed a sobriety test or your blood alcohol level was over the limit.
Herbert & Lux helps people facing DUI charges in Nashville, Davidson County, and throughout Middle Tennessee. We handle first-time arrests, repeat DUI charges, and cases involving alcohol, marijuana, or prescription medication. You'll work directly with our attorneys, who will look at what happened during your arrest and help you understand what comes next.
Call Herbert & Lux for a free DUI case consultation.
What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Nashville?
Most misdemeanor DUI cases in Davidson County begin in General Sessions Court. Your first court date is usually not a trial. It's part of a process that may involve reviewing evidence, speaking with prosecutors, attending additional hearings, or challenging the charge in court.
Before that happens, there are a few things worth doing. Keep your citation, bond paperwork, and court notices together. Write down what you remember about the stop, including why the officer pulled you over, what you were asked to do, and whether you took a breath or blood test. Details that seem minor now may matter once we review the police report and video.
You should also find out whether your driver's license is at risk. A DUI conviction carries license penalties, and refusing certain chemical tests can create separate problems. Herbert & Lux helps clients understand their court dates, driving privileges, and the evidence that may affect their cases.
What Are the Penalties for DUI in Tennessee?
Tennessee has strict DUI laws, and even a first conviction carries mandatory jail time. You can be charged with DUI based on impairment from alcohol or drugs, or under the applicable blood alcohol concentration rules. The usual BAC limit for drivers 21 and older is 0.08%, but a lower result does not necessarily rule out a DUI charge.
The minimum jail time increases with prior DUI convictions:
|
Offense |
Mandatory minimum jail time |
|
First DUI |
48 hours |
|
First DUI with BAC of 0.15% or higher |
7 days |
|
Second DUI |
45 days |
|
Third DUI |
120 days |
|
Fourth DUI |
Felony penalties apply |
A conviction can also mean fines, driver's license revocation, an ignition interlock device, and court-ordered programs. The exact penalties depend on your record and the circumstances of the arrest. If this is your first arrest, our guide to first-offense DUI charges in Tennessee explains the process in more detail. We also represent clients facing second DUI charges, third DUI charges, and felony DUI allegations.
Can You Fight a DUI Charge in Nashville?
Yes. Being arrested for DUI doesn't mean the case is already decided. Police reports and chemical test results can be important evidence, but they can also raise questions that need to be investigated.
For example, we may need to look at why an officer stopped your vehicle, whether the arrest was supported by what the officer actually observed, or whether a blood test was collected and handled properly. Dashcam and bodycam recordings can also reveal details that aren't included in the written report.
Herbert & Lux has handled DUI cases where examining those details made a real difference. In Davidson County, the firm obtained a DUI dismissal after successfully challenging police conduct, even though the reported BAC was above the legal limit. In Wilson County, a DUI charge was dismissed after dashcam footage raised problems with the officer's account.
Can a DUI Be Reduced to Reckless Driving?
Sometimes. A DUI charge may be reduced to reckless driving when the circumstances support a negotiated resolution and the prosecution agrees. That can make a significant difference, since a DUI conviction carries mandatory penalties that don't apply in the same way to every reduced charge.
Herbert & Lux has obtained reductions in DUI cases, including a Rutherford County third DUI that was reduced to reckless driving with no probation after a challenge to unlawful police conduct. A reduction is never guaranteed, and we'll explain the risks and possible outcomes before you make decisions about your case.
Will You Lose Your Driver's License After a DUI?
A first DUI conviction in Tennessee generally results in a one-year license revocation. Repeat convictions can lead to much longer periods without full driving privileges, which can make getting to work or caring for your family difficult.
Some people qualify for a restricted driver's license, often with an ignition interlock requirement. Eligibility depends on the charge, driving history, and other legal requirements. You can read more in our guide to getting a restricted license after a DUI.
We can review the circumstances of your arrest and help you understand which license issues need attention.
Why Work With Herbert & Lux on Your DUI Case?
When you call Herbert & Lux, you're speaking with a firm that regularly handles criminal cases in Middle Tennessee courts. That experience matters when we're looking at how police handled an arrest and what may happen when the case reaches court.
You also work directly with the attorneys handling your case. We want to hear your account of the traffic stop, answer your questions, and make sure you understand your options instead of leaving you guessing about what's happening.
What Our Clients Say
"This was my first experience hiring a lawyer, originally charged with DUI, and it could not have gone better!"
Mike G., Herbert & Lux client
"This man right here is THE BEST Attorney in Nashville"
Erik W., Herbert & Lux client
You can read more Herbert & Lux client reviews and see additional case results.
Talk to a Nashville DUI Attorney at Herbert & Lux
If you're facing a DUI charge in Nashville, you don't have to figure out the court process or possible penalties on your own. Herbert & Lux can review the arrest, answer your questions, and help you understand whether there are grounds to challenge the charge.
We represent clients in Davidson County and throughout Middle Tennessee, including Wilson, Williamson, Sumner, Rutherford, and Robertson counties.
Call Herbert & Lux for a free consultation about your DUI case.
