Aggravated DUI Attorney in Nashville

Facing Aggravated DUI Charges? Here’s How We Help in Nashville

If you or someone you care about faces aggravated DUI charges in Nashville, you need clear guidance and strong support. At Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby, we understand the anxiety and uncertainty that come with these allegations.

Aggravated DUI charges in Tennessee often move quickly in the courts, so having an aggravated DUI attorney in Nashville who knows local customs can make a difference. We take time to understand each case’s details and explain how your choices fit within local laws, always encouraging open communication and supporting you throughout the process.

Secure your freedom now. We offer affordable services, free consultations, and 24/7 availability. Call a determined aggravated DUI attorney in Nashville at (615) 745-3434 or reach out online immediately.

Understanding Aggravated DUI Offenses in Tennessee

In Tennessee, the term aggravated DUI is used to describe DUI offenses that are enhanced to the felony level due to circumstances or prior convictions. These offenses carry exponentially harsher penalties than a standard DUI (T.C.A. § 55-10-401).

The most common scenarios that result in a felony aggravated DUI charge are:

• Repeat Offender (Fourth or Subsequent DUI)—Under T.C.A. § 55-10-403, a person's fourth or subsequent DUI conviction is automatically charged as a Class E Felony. Unlike many states, Tennessee does not have a "look-back period"—prior DUIs remain on your record indefinitely, meaning the fourth offense, regardless of when the prior convictions occurred, triggers felony penalties.
• DUI Causing Serious Injury (Vehicular Assault)—If an intoxicated driver causes an accident that results in serious bodily injury to another person, the charge is elevated to Vehicular Assault (T.C.A. § 39-13-106), a Class D Felony. This charge requires proving that the intoxication was the proximate cause of the injury.
• DUI Causing Death—This is the most severe aggravated DUI charge.
  • Vehicular Homicide (T.C.A. § 39-13-213): Causing a person's death as a result of intoxication is a Class B Felony, punishable by 8–30 years in prison and a fine up to $25,000.
  • Aggravated Vehicular Homicide (Class A Felony): This charge is applied when the defendant has two or more prior DUI or Vehicular Assault convictions, or a prior Vehicular Homicide conviction. This is a Class A Felony—the second most serious in Tennessee—carrying 15–60 years in prison and a fine up to $50,000.

Your Nashville aggravated DUI lawyer must be prepared to defend against the highest levels of criminal prosecution.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Aggravated DUI in Tennessee

Tennessee has some of the harshest DUI laws in the nation, and the consequences of an aggravated DUI conviction are devastating.

New Sentencing Mandates: The 100% Rule

As of July 1, 2024, Tennessee law for Vehicular Homicide by Intoxication requires the defendant to serve 100% of the imposed prison sentence. This eliminates parole, probation, and the opportunity to earn "good time" credits, meaning an 8-year sentence means 8 years behind bars. This critical change makes an aggressive defense against conviction absolutely essential.

Felony Penalties

• Fourth DUI (Class E Felony): 1–6 years in prison, minimum 150 days served; fine up to $15,000; license revocation for 8 years.
• Vehicular Assault (Class D Felony): 2–12 years in prison; fine up to $5,000; license revocation.
• Vehicular Homicide (Class B Felony): 8–30 years in prison (served at 100%); fine up to $25,000; license revocation for 3 to 10 years.

Permanent Collateral Consequences

An aggravated DUI conviction creates a permanent public record and lifelong disadvantages:

• Loss of Rights: Permanent loss of the right to own or possess firearms.
• Employment and Licensing: Automatic revocation or denial of professional licenses (CDL, nursing, etc.) and a permanent barrier to many career fields due to the felony record.
• License Revocation and IID: Lengthy driver’s license revocation, followed by a mandatory, expensive Ignition Interlock Device (IID) requirement upon reinstatement.
• Civil Liability: A criminal conviction is almost always followed by a wrongful death or personal injury lawsuit, exposing you to massive civil damages.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Aggravated DUI Defense

Our defense strategies are comprehensive and immediately deployed to challenge both the criminal charge and the administrative license suspension. As your aggravated DUI attorney in Nashville, we fight to avoid a felony conviction entirely.

We employ technical defense strategies such as:

• Challenging Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs): Arguing that the FSTs were administered improperly, or that physical and environmental factors (footwear, road grade, nervousness) invalidated the results.
• Defense Against Causation: Utilizing independent experts—including accident reconstructionists, medical specialists, and toxicologists—to prove that the collision or the resulting death/injury was not proximately caused by our client’s intoxication.
• Illegal Stop and Detention: Filing Motions to Suppress all evidence if the police lacked the constitutional basis to stop, detain, or arrest our client.
• Negotiation for Lesser Offenses: In fatality cases, we aggressively negotiate to reduce the charge from Vehicular Homicide to a lesser felony like Reckless Homicide (Class D Felony), which does not carry the mandatory 100% service requirement, or even a misdemeanor.

Your Trusted Aggravated DUI Lawyers & Advocates

People across Nashville turn to us because we combine skilled legal defense with constant, open communication. When you face an aggravated DUI, you never have to tackle the legal system alone. We answer every question, explain all options, and keep you informed as your case progresses. 

We ensure that you are never left wondering what comes next. By focusing on individualized support and ongoing dialogue, we create space for honest discussions, no matter how complex your concerns. 

Our aggravated DUI lawyers in Nashville remain available to address urgent needs and provide timely updates, especially when legal requirements shift or deadlines arise. This dedication allows you to move through the process with peace of mind.

Why Choose Our Aggravated DUI Attorney Services in Nashville

Every aggravated DUI case requires close attention and a custom legal plan. Here’s what makes Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby stand out as aggravated DUI lawyers in Nashville:

• Personalized attention: We get to know you and the story behind your case, providing tailored guidance from start to finish.
• Affordable, transparent legal services: You receive clear and predictable costs—no hidden fees or unexpected charges.
• Non-judgmental support: We treat you with dignity and respect, no matter the circumstances.
• Accessible counsel: Our team remains available when you need us, offering prompt responses and regular updates.
• Proven experience with thousands of cases: We draw from our deep background in criminal cases to recognize patterns and respond effectively in aggravated DUI matters.

Our extensive background with criminal defense in Nashville lets us respond quickly to unique case issues that may arise. We recognize the serious impact aggravated DUI charges can have, especially in a community that values safety and accountability. 

Local courts establish tight schedules and expect strict compliance with procedures, so our communication keeps you ahead of every requirement. We take pride in our reputation for honest, straightforward legal support grounded in real courtroom experience, always with your best interests as our central focus.

Our Step-by-Step Approach to Aggravated DUI Defense

Defending against an aggravated DUI charge involves several vital stages in Nashville. Here’s how our aggravated DUI attorney team guides you through each step:

• Initial consultation: We listen to your story, review the case materials, and discuss what lies ahead so you know the process from day one.
• Full case evaluation: We examine police and arrest reports, chemical test results, and details of the traffic stop. We check local enforcement practices for issues or discrepancies that could impact your defense.
• Strategy development: We work with you to establish your goals and craft a legal approach that responds directly to the facts and available evidence.
• Consistent communication: You receive regular updates, practical advice, and access to answers for any questions as the case develops.
• Guidance for court appearances: We help you understand all requirements and prepare you for what to expect with each court proceeding.

Contact an Aggravated DUI Attorney in Nashville Today

Take the first step by reaching out to Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby for guidance with your aggravated DUI charge in Nashville. When you contact us, you receive compassion, straightforward advice, and clarity about each phase of your defense. Our aggravated DUI lawyers take time to listen and provide support so you know your rights and responsibilities from the very first call. 

For dependable counsel that puts your needs first, call (615) 745-3434 or complete our secure contact form. We look forward to helping you move forward with confidence.

FAQs

How does aggravated DUI differ from a regular DUI in Nashville?

Aggravated DUI charges typically include added factors like a high BAC, previous convictions, causing injury, or child endangerment, often resulting in harsher legal penalties than a standard DUI.

Will I lose my driver’s license after an aggravated DUI arrest?

Conviction for aggravated DUI can result in a much longer license suspension than for a regular DUI, depending on the facts and your prior driving history.

What penalties could I face for aggravated DUI?

Aggravated DUI in Tennessee carries increased jail time, higher fines, court-ordered treatment, and longer license suspensions, based on the specifics of your case and the law.

What are my options if I am charged with aggravated DUI?

You may have the opportunity to challenge evidence, negotiate for reduced penalties, or discuss alternative outcomes. The best path forward depends on the details of your case.

How soon do I need to take action after an aggravated DUI charge?

Early action gives you a stronger chance to protect your rights. Acting quickly also helps you avoid missing deadlines and ensures you take every available opportunity to build your defense.

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