Sometimes Connecticut residents travel to other states, like Tennessee, for business or pleasure and have the unfortunate luck to be charged with a DUI. If this happens to you, you should first find a qualified DUI lawyer in Tennessee, but you should also be aware of how Connecticut’s DMV will treat you upon your return.

Tennessee DUI Penalties

If you have been convicted of a DUI in Tennessee, you would be convicted of violating Tenn. Code Ann. 55-10-401.

In Tennessee, the penalties for DUI can range depending on the number of prior DUI offenses you have.

First offense: A first offense will result in a jail sentence of 11 months and 29 days, 24 hour of community service, a $350-$1,500 fine, participation in an alcohol safety class, and the suspension of your drivers license for one year. At least 48 hours must be spent in jail, and if your BAC is .20 or higher, the minimum mandatory jail sentence is seven days.

Second offense: The penalties for a second offense include a jail sentence of at least 45 days but no more than eleven months and 29 days, a fine between $600 and $3,500, participation in alcohol safety class, and a license suspension for two years.

Third offense: This conviction carries a jail sentence of 120 days to 11 months and 29 days, a fine of $1,100-$10,000, participation in alcohol school, and a license suspension for three to ten years.

Fourth/subsequent offense: This offense is considered a felony and will result in a jail sentence of one to six years in jail, a fine of $3,000-$15,000, mandatory participation in alcohol school, and a license suspension of five years.

If you are a Connecticut resident who has been charged with or convicted of DUI in Tennessee, you should be aware that there are repercussions on your Connecticut license in your home state in addition to any license impact in Tennessee as set forth above.

If you are looking for a Tennessee DUI lawyer, Ruane Attorneys recommends Attorney Marcos Garza. Contact our firm to discuss your case further.