A conviction for
driving under the influence in Tennessee has a major impact on the life of the defendant well beyond
actual punishment imposed by the court. The conviction ultimately generates
a criminal record, which is a situation many convicted drunk drivers may
never have experienced previously.
The conviction stays on the driving record of the defendant for at least
10 years, and certain circumstances could even result in a 20-year lookback
period when the case includes an accident resulting in serious injury
or a fatality. In addition, it can also create future problems when the
charge is based on driving under the influence of drugs or when other
charges can apply if the defendant later applies for public housing or
certain types of employment.
Even for those who already know this information, they may not know just
what a DUI really costs. Here is what a DUI could mean for your bank account.
Fines
Monetary penalties for a DUI conviction in Tennessee can be extensive even
for the first offense. Fines can range from $350-1000 for a first conviction,
with subsequent DUI convictions being assessed upwards to $10,000 for
a third offense within the look-back period.
Cases involving accidents could also result in a lawsuit when others are
physically injured, and many times the amount of damages are well beyond
insurance coverage maximums. These funds can be attached through personal
property or wage garnishment in addition to fines.
Driver’s Education
All convicted drivers will be required to complete an alcoholic drivers
education program approved by the state. The programs all carry a significant
service fee that is paid by the defendant through the whole process, which
is usually one year. This applies to first offenses as well as subsequent
convictions and is in addition to service fees that may be imposed by
the court.
Ignition Interlock Devices
Many courts will require a convicted impaired driver to install an approved
ignition interlock device that is essentially a breathalyzer sample machine
that must be passed before a driver can start the automobile. This device
also comes with a rental fee that must be maintained by the provider.
All miscellaneous expenses associated with an IID are paid by the defendant.
Lost Wages
DUI convictions also carry a license suspension penalty based on the conviction
level, many times leaving the defendant without a method of getting to
work. Even when transportation is available, there can still be other
associated costs for the inability to run errands and conduct personal
business such as attending required education classes.
Some individuals, such as truck drivers, can actually have an occupational
license revoked, which could lead to having to find different employment.
Work release is not always guaranteed when jail sentences are imposed,
which could also result in lost wages or even termination. And, this is
not to mention insurance premium increases during the lookback period.
Always remember that retaining an attorney to fight a DUI charge is an
investment in your financial future as much as your freedom. Your attorney
can matter immensely when it comes to protecting your future. The attorney
to call in Knoxville is
Joseph A. Fanduzz.
Contact our Knoxville criminal defense firm at {F:P:Site:Phone} for a case
evaluation.