When you get behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming alcohol, you could face charges for drinking and driving. If convicted, the penalties for DUI are serious.
For example, according to the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security, for a first-time DUI, you could face a fine ranging from $350 to $1,500 and lose your license for up to a year. However, there are defenses you can rely on to potentially mitigate your charges or reduce your sentence.
1. Illegal stop by law enforcement
Law enforcement officials cannot arbitrarily pull over drivers. Unless they have “reasonable suspicion” you are doing something wrong, law enforcement cannot pull you over. If you believe the arresting officer did not have a reason to pull you over for DUI, you could argue this during your case.
2. Medical conditions
Certain medical conditions can create the appearance of drunkenness without intoxication. For instance, fatigue or neurological conditions can cause slurred speech while allergies can cause watery, red eyes.
3. Improper field sobriety protocol
Law enforcement officials must follow certain protocols when administering a field sobriety test. Many factors can also reduce the credibility of the field sobriety test results, like inclement weather or wearing certain types of shoes. If the law enforcement official did not abide by these rules, your case may not hold up in court.
Facing penalties for drinking and driving can be intimidating, and you may worry about how a possible conviction will affect your future. A credible defense can help you move forward confidently and potentially reduce the impact of the DUI.
