A second DUI arrest is a significant juncture in your life. To avoid life-changing consequences, you should consult an experienced defense lawyer as soon as possible.
At the Breeding Carter law office in Knoxville, we offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case. You need a strong defense attorney who will help you build the strongest possible defense at a time you need it the most.
Consequences Of A Second DUI Conviction
In Tennessee, DUI penalties increase significantly if you have had a prior DUI conviction in any state within the last 10 years. The following chart shows the effect of a first and second DUI conviction on your freedom and your driver’s license:
| First DUI Conviction | Second DUI Conviction | |
| Fine | $350 to $1,500 | $600 to $3,500 |
| Jail time | Minimum of 48 hours in jail (seven consecutive days if your BAC was over 20) | Minimum of 45 days in jail is mandatory. |
| Driver’s license revocation | One year loss of license. You may qualify to apply for a restricted driver’s license. | Two years loss of license. After one year, you can apply for a restricted driver’s license. |
The penalties continue to increase with each subsequent conviction. If you have three convictions within 10 years and are arrested a fourth time, you will be facing felony DUI charges.
As early as the time you are arrested for a second or subsequent DUI offense, you can be denied bond and spend significant time in jail even before your case gets to court. That is why it is important to contact an experienced attorney as early as possible upon your arrest.
Defending You From Multiple DUI Convictions
If you have one or more prior DUI convictions, it may be possible to challenge the proof of any prior conviction, especially if you did not have legal counsel. If your previous conviction was in another state, it may be difficult for district attorney to obtain the documentation he or she needs to prove a prior conviction. Our goal is to reduce a third offense to a second offense or a second offense to a first offense based on skillful counsel.
Contact Us Now For Help
Let an experienced DUI trial and appellate attorney and a determined defense attorney protect your rights and your freedom. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call our Knoxville office at 865-670-8535 or fill out our contact form.