DUI & Criminal Law

Knoxville DUI Attorney & Criminal Defense

There is nothing in your life more important than your freedom. Regardless of whether you are guilty or innocent, the right to counsel it is one of the most important rights given by our Constitution. And it is yours to claim.

When accused of a crime you should immediately hire a defense attorney who understands Tennessee law, including Tennessee DUI laws and other areas of criminal law.

Find the right representation at McKeehan Law Group, our Knoxville-area law practice. We are familiar with local courts and track any changes to Tennessee state or federal laws that could affect your case. Our attorneys always go the extra mile in your defense.

On Your Side

If you are facing a DUI or other criminal charges in the Knoxville, Tennessee area, the three best possible outcomes are:

Avoiding jail time altogether

Reducing or dismissing your charges

Keeping your record clean

The attorneys of McKeehan Law Group know how confusing and overwhelming it can be to find yourself in this difficult situation. One where even the three best options mean weeks, possibly months, of inconvenience and stress. Even if the criminal charges are dropped, the amount of time and money spent can cause a lot of personal anxiety, not to mention a strain on relationships and your job.

Whether you are being charged with a DUI or another crime, when things look impossible, and it feels like everything is going against you, we are on your side.

Criminal Defense Tennessee

Our attorneys understand the devastating impact a criminal conviction could have on your life and your future. We also see the pressure and stress it puts on your friends and family.

McKeehan Law Group defends people in Knoxville criminal court charged in a wide range of cases. And these charges range from misdemeanor offenses, like DUI charges and minor drug cases, to high-level felonies.

Our first concern is making sure you have all the information available, and that you clearly understand the best options.

Knoxville Criminal Defense Charges

Criminal defense attorneys are hired to defend against all types of criminal charges. However, Tennessee criminal charges most often fall into one of these categories:

  • DUI Tennessee Laws, Public Intoxication, and other Alcohol Crimes
  • Property Crimes (petty theft to burglary, theft, auto theft, arson)
  • Controlled Substances/Drug Crimes (Possession/use to manufacture, transport, sales)
  • Violent Crimes (Disorderly conduct, domestic violence assault to aggravated assault)

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

From a simple DUI charge to an alleged felony our attorneys are here for your defense. So schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your situation. In criminal cases, time is of the essence. Make the call today.

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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