DUI

DUI Lawyer

Knoxville DUI Attorney

Nothing in life is more important than your liberty. Whether you believe you’re innocent or not, the constitutional right to counsel is yours – and it’s crucial to act fast when you’re facing DUI charges.

At McKeehan Law Group, our Knoxville-based defense team specializes in Tennessee DUI laws and criminal defense. We stay alert to both federal and state legal changes and maintain a deep familiarity with local courts and procedures. Our attorneys go the extra mile to ensure you have a strong defense from Day One.

Time is of the essence – call us today at (865) 294-8008 to schedule a free consultation.

What DUI Defendants Can Expect

While we cannot guarantee any specific results, there are three key outcomes we prioritize for those facing DUI or related charges in Knoxville and the surrounding area:

Avoiding jail time altogether

Reducing or dismissing your charges

Securing the most favorable outcome possible

Let us be your shield in this challenging time. Your future and freedom are worth defending.

Why Choose Our DUI Defense Team

  • Expertise in Tennessee DUI Law: We understand nuances such as implied consent, field sobriety tests, BAC thresholds, and administrative license suspensions.
  • Local Courtroom Savvy: With in-depth knowledge of judges, prosecutors, and procedures, we craft strategies tailored to your courtroom environment.
  • Comprehensive Case Review: Every aspect of your arrest – from the traffic stop to chemical testing – is scrutinized for accuracy, legality, and procedure.
  • Personalized, Compassionate Representation: Beyond the legal process, we understand the personal anxiety a DUI charge triggers. We’re here to guide, support, and reassure you throughout.

DUI Defense Services We Provide

We offer a full range of DUI defense services, including:

  • Defense for first-time and repeat DUI offenses, including felony DUI.
  • DUI Tennessee Laws, Public Intoxication, and other Alcohol Crimes.
  • Challenges to breathalyzer and blood test results.
  • Legal strategies for underage DUI, CDL-related offenses, and implied consent violations.
  • Negotiation for plea agreements or alternative resolutions when appropriate
  • Defense in cases involving vehicular homicide or assault stemming from DUI incidents.
  • Support for license reinstatement, restricted driving privilege requests, and navigating administrative proceedings.

Immediate Action Matters. Schedule Your Free Consultation.

The strength of your DUI case often depends on how quickly and thoroughly it’s reviewed. We encourage you to contact us immediately to preserve evidence, analyze testing, and explore all defense options.

We offer no-cost, no-obligation consultations so you can understand your rights and options without delay. Time is of the essence –  call us today to start building your defense.

Contact UsCall Us: (865) 294-8008
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FAQs About DUI Charges

Do I need to hire a lawyer for a DUI?

While you’re not legally required to hire a lawyer for a DUI in Tennessee, it’s overwhelmingly recommended due to the severe potential consequences and complex legal process. An experienced DUI attorney, like those at McKeehan Law Group, can significantly improve your outcome by challenging evidence (like breathalyzer results or traffic stop legality), negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or plea deals, protecting your driving privileges, and guiding you through every step of the judicial and administrative proceedings. Without legal representation, you risk facing maximum penalties, including hefty fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record, potentially impacting your employment and future opportunities.

Is a DUI a felony or a misdemeanor in Tennessee?

In the state of Tennessee, a DUI is typically a misdemeanor for the first three offenses. However, it becomes a felony if it’s your fourth or subsequent conviction, or if it results in serious bodily injury or death to another person.

How long does a DUI stay on your record?

A DUI conviction in Tennessee generally stays on your criminal and driving records permanently and cannot be expunged. While permanent, there’s a 10-year “lookback period” used for enhancing penalties on any future DUI offenses.

What is the difference between DUI and DWI?

In Tennessee, the primary legal term used for impaired driving offenses is DUI (Driving Under the Influence). This encompasses driving while impaired by alcohol, illicit drugs, prescription medications, or any substance affecting one’s ability to drive safely. While “DWI” (Driving While Intoxicated or Impaired) is a term used in some other states, Tennessee generally does not use DWI as a distinct legal charge for adults. Some sources indicate that DWI might specifically refer to underage drivers (ages 16-20) with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.02% or greater, but for adults, the overarching charge is DUI.

How much does a DUI cost?

The total cost of a DUI in Tennessee can easily exceed $10,000 to $15,000 for a first offense, and significantly more for repeat offenses. This includes a wide range of expenses: fines and court costs (hundreds to thousands), attorney fees (thousands), mandatory ignition interlock device installation and monthly fees (hundreds to over a thousand annually), drastically increased car insurance premiums for years, and costs for required alcohol education or treatment programs. Other potential costs include towing, impoundment, and lost wages.

Are DUI checkpoints legal?

Yes, DUI checkpoints are legal in Tennessee. The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld their constitutionality, and Tennessee follows specific guidelines for their operation, including advance public notice and neutral stopping patterns, to ensure driver rights are respected.

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