A first offense DUI carries a sentence from 48 hours in jail to a sentence of up to eleven (11) months and 29 days. It is more common however for someone convicted of a first-time DUI to serve 48 hours in jail.  As of July 1, 2024, however Tennessee law says someone with a BAC of .15% (previously .20%) or more are subject to more severe penalties- there is a minimum sentence of seven days in jail. The penalty is even greater if you are convicted of a DUI where a minor is in the car. The penalty for a DUI with a minor in the vehicle includes a minimum sentence of 30 days in jail.

Additional penalties for any DUI include fines and mandatory attendance at a substance abuse program. For a first DUI offense, the fine ranges between $350.00 to $1,500.00. You also can lose your ability to drive for up to a year. The law also requires you to pay restitution to any person who may have been injured or suffered property damage as a result of your drunk driving. Insurance company may also refuse to pay if someone is injured during the commission if a crime.

Contact our law office directly to discuss your case: 615-784-4588.

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