The Penalties for Second and Third Dui Convictions

by | Apr 8, 2021

In the state of Tennessee, you are considered legally intoxicated if your blood alcohol level is .08% or higher. If you are under the age of 21, you could be charged with DUI if your blood alcohol level is .02% or higher. The penalties for driving while under the influence of alcohol increase each time that you are convicted of this crime.

The penalties for a second DUI conviction

A second DUI conviction will come with a jail sentence of at least 45 days. However, you may be required to spend up to a year in state custody. Furthermore, you will pay a fine of between $600 and $3,500. Finally, your license will be revoked for at least two years, and your driving privileges will be restricted for a period of time after you get your license back. During this restriction period, it may be necessary to have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle.

The penalties for a third DUI conviction

If you are convicted of DUI for a third time, you will spend at least 120 days in jail. You will also pay a fine of up to $10,000, lose your license for up to a decade and face the possibility of having your vehicle confiscated by the court. During the revocation period, you will not be eligible for a restricted license, which means that you won’t be able to drive to work, school or a substance abuse treatment program.

Enhanced penalties may be imposed

Enhanced penalties may be imposed if your blood alcohol content was .20% or higher at the time a chemical test was conducted. The same may be true if you caused an accident resulting in bodily injury or death. A criminal law attorney may help you avoid some or all of those penalties.

A drunk driving conviction may have a significant impact on your life. Therefore, it’s generally in your best interest to hire an attorney to help you obtain an acquittal or plea deal in your case.

DUI

TESTIMONIALS

“Best decision I made to hire Meredith.”
Meredith got both charges dismissed and I only have to take a class. Thanks so much Meredith! You are the best!
- Lorrie C.

“Meredith Saved My Life”

Well she got the case dismissed and record expunged before I was ever booked. Can’t get any favorable than that. Thank You Meredith.
- Former Client

“My outcome was far better than I could have imagined thanks to Meredith.”
When we met, she explained the legal system, the legal process and my rights. She was knowledgeable, sincere and caring in her approach.
- Jim