DUI with Drugs Attorney in Nashville

Your Trusted Defense for Drugged Driving Charges in Nashville-Davidson

If you are searching for a DUI with drugs attorney in Nashville, at Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby, our approach is built on compassion, integrity, and hands-on guidance for those navigating the Tennessee legal system. With thousands of criminal cases handled throughout Middle Tennessee, we bring a wealth of experience and a strong understanding of the unique procedures and challenges within Nashville-Davidson courts.

Drug DUI charges here are complex—often involving both traffic law and specialized drug testing procedures. As an experienced drug DUI lawyer in Nashville, our team closely follows changes in local court processes, police procedures, and Tennessee statutes, especially those affecting how "impairment" is interpreted in relation to prescription or over-the-counter medications. 

Each situation is unique. That’s why we focus on the specific facts of your case, whether your arrest stemmed from a roadside stop, an accident investigation, or an administrative checkpoint. By leveraging our local insight, we deliver tailored legal strategies that prioritize your future.

Contact a dedicated DUI with drugs attorney in Nashville at the Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby for a free consultation. Call us now at (615) 745-3434 or schedule a meeting online.

Understanding Tennessee's DUI with Drugs Laws

In Tennessee, it is unlawful to drive or be in physical control of a motor vehicle while "under the influence of any intoxicant, marijuana, controlled substance, controlled substance analogue, drug, substance affecting the central nervous system, or combination thereof that impairs the driver's ability to safely operate a motor vehicle." 

This means a DUI with drugs is treated just as seriously as a DUI with alcohol. As your Nashville DUI with drugs lawyers, we want you to know that the law does not distinguish between legal prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, or illegal substances; if the drug impairs your ability to drive safely, you can be charged with a DUI.

This is different from an alcohol-related DUI where a driver's BAC of 0.08% or higher is a "per se" violation. For a DUI with drugs, the prosecution must prove that you were impaired to the extent that you could not safely operate a vehicle. The absence of a specific legal limit for drugs or a standardized, objective test for drug impairment provides a key area for defense.

The Key Elements the Prosecution Must Prove

For the prosecution to convict you of a DUI with drugs, they must prove two primary elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

• Impairment: The prosecutor must prove that your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle was impaired by a drug. In the absence of a per se limit, the prosecution will rely on other evidence to prove this. This evidence can include the police officer’s observations (like slurred speech or erratic driving), results from field sobriety tests, and a blood or urine test that shows the presence of a controlled substance.
• Causation: The prosecution must prove that the drug was the cause of your impairment. This can be a point of contention, especially if the drug was a prescription medication that you have been taking regularly.

As your DUI with drugs attorney in Nashville, we will meticulously scrutinize the State's evidence and expose weaknesses in their case. We can challenge the legality of the initial traffic stop, the administration of field sobriety tests, and the validity and handling of any blood or urine samples. We will not simply accept the State's evidence at face value. We know that these are not always easy to prove, and our defense strategy is focused on challenging the State on every front.

The Penalties of a Drug DUI Conviction in Tennessee

The consequences of a DUI with drugs conviction in Tennessee are devastating and can have a profound impact on your life, well beyond the fines and potential jail time. We work tirelessly to help our clients avoid these devastating consequences.

• Mandatory Jail Time: Even a first-time DUI with drugs conviction carries a mandatory minimum jail sentence of 48 hours, with a maximum of up to 11 months and 29 days.
• Significant Fines: The fines for a first offense range from $350 to $1,500, but they can be much higher for subsequent offenses.
• License Suspension: This is an administrative penalty separate from your criminal case. A first-time DUI with drugs conviction results in an automatic suspension of your license for one year.
• Drug and Alcohol Assessment and Treatment: The court may order you to undergo a drug and alcohol assessment and complete any recommended treatment programs at your own expense.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): You will likely be required to install an IID on your vehicle at your own expense.
• Permanent Criminal Record: A DUI with drugs conviction results in a permanent criminal record that is publicly accessible. This can affect your employment, your ability to secure housing, and your educational opportunities for years to come.
• Increased Insurance Premiums: Your car insurance rates will likely increase dramatically after a DUI conviction, making driving an expensive proposition.

A knowledgeable Nashville DUI with drugs lawyer can help you understand the full scope of these penalties and work to mitigate them.

The Tennessee DUI Defense Process

The legal process for a DUI with drugs charge is complex and requires a strategic approach. We will be with you every step of the way to ensure your rights are protected in both the criminal case and the administrative proceeding. 

We are deeply familiar with the courts in Nashville and Davidson County.

1. Initial Contact: The moment you are arrested, it is crucial to remain silent and exercise your right to an attorney. Do not answer any questions or perform any tests without legal counsel.
2. Arraignment: This is your first court appearance. The prosecutor will formally read the charges, and you will enter a plea. We will be there to protect your rights and to argue for a reasonable bond.
3. Discovery and Investigation: We will conduct a thorough investigation into your case. We know exactly what evidence to look for, including police dashcam and bodycam footage, police reports, and witness statements. We will also examine the chain of custody for any blood or urine samples.
4. Pre-Trial Motions: We will file motions to suppress evidence if we believe there was a Fourth Amendment violation (illegal stop or search) or if the chemical tests were not administered properly. A successful motion can weaken the prosecution's case and lead to a more favorable outcome.
5. Plea Negotiations or Trial: A significant percentage of DUI with drugs cases are resolved through a plea negotiation. We will work to get the charges reduced or dismissed. In some cases, we can argue for you to be entered into a drug treatment program that can lead to a dismissal of the charges. If a favorable plea cannot be reached, we will be prepared to take your case to trial and present a vigorous defense to a jury.

Our Comprehensive Approach to DUI with Drugs Defense

At the Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby, our defense strategies are aggressive and comprehensive. We believe that every case is unique and deserves a personalized defense strategy.

• Challenging the Stop: We will scrutinize the reason for the initial traffic stop. If the officer lacked "reasonable suspicion" to stop you, any evidence obtained as a result can be suppressed, which can lead to a dismissal of the case.
• Disputing Field Sobriety Tests: These tests are highly subjective. We can argue that external factors, such as the uneven ground, your footwear, or a medical condition, contributed to your performance.
• Attacking Chemical Test Results: The presence of a drug in your system does not automatically mean you were impaired. We will challenge the accuracy of the blood or urine test, the chain of custody, and the qualifications of the person who administered the test.
• Negotiating with the State: We have a strong reputation with prosecutors in the Nashville and Davidson County court system. We know what a reasonable plea deal looks like and we are prepared to fight for a favorable outcome, such as getting your charges reduced or getting you into a diversion program that can lead to a dismissal of the charges.

We will exhaust every possible option to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future. A skilled Nashville DUI with drugs lawyer can make all the difference.

About Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby—Comprehensive & Compassionate Criminal Defense

Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby provides round-the-clock availability, making reliable communication and personalized advice our core promise to every client. Our transparent and affordable legal services ensure that you always know what to expect, and our empathy ensures that you feel supported from start to finish.

We make the entire process as clear and straightforward as possible, explaining deadlines, court appearances, and legal documents in everyday language. With us, you'll never be left in the dark—our legal team keeps you informed and involved through every stage of your case. 

The clients we serve—from downtown Nashville to neighborhoods across Davidson County—value our commitment to open communication, diligent case management, and results-focused advocacy. Whether you need representation before the criminal court, guidance in negotiations, or comprehensive support for license reinstatement or potential expungement, we are by your side every step of the way.

You can expect the following from a dedicated DUI with drugs lawyer in Nashville:

• Accessible Guidance: We clarify every step, from your arrest to resolution, so you’re never in the dark about your next move.
• Established Experience: Our familiarity with local prosecutors, judges, and Nashville-Davidson procedures lets us anticipate challenges and build stronger defenses.
• Case-By-Case Strategy: Every detail matters; we thoroughly review field and laboratory test records to challenge any inaccuracies or procedural missteps.
• Transparent Advocacy: We break down your options and potential outcomes, empowering you to make informed decisions that align with your best interests.
• Free Initial Consultation: We take the time to hear your story and answer immediate questions—offering clarity, not judgment.
• Negotiation & Court Representation: Our negotiation skills and trial readiness allow us to pursue reduced charges, alternatives to conviction, or another positive outcome.
• Supportive Follow-Through: We continue our support with post-case needs, including license reinstatement, court-ordered compliance, and expungement guidance if available.

Take the First Step Toward Your DUI with Drugs Defense Today

If you’re facing a DUI with drugs charge, immediate action is the key to protecting your future. At Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby, our drug DUI attorneys in Nashville-Davidson respond promptly to your concerns, providing a straightforward strategy that is confidential, practical, and customized to fit your needs. You will be kept fully informed and supported through every part of your defense. 

Schedule a free consultation by calling (615) 745-3434—let’s chart your next steps together so you can regain peace of mind as soon as possible. Available 24/7.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies as DUI with Drugs under Tennessee law?

In Tennessee, a person can be charged with DUI with drugs when impairment from drugs—illegal, prescription, or over-the-counter—affects their ability to safely operate a vehicle.

Can I be charged with Drug DUI if I have a valid prescription?

Yes. Even with a valid prescription or doctor's note, you may still be charged if authorities believe the medication impaired your ability to drive.

What penalties can I face for a first-time DUI with Drugs conviction?

For first-time offenders in Nashville-Davidson, penalties can include jail time, fines, mandatory substance abuse treatment, and suspension of your driver's license, depending on case details and prior offenses.

Will a DUI with Drugs conviction appear on my criminal record?

Yes. A DUI with drugs conviction is a criminal offense and will appear on your record, potentially affecting future opportunities. Depending on your case, expungement may be an option in the future.

How soon should I contact a DUI with Drugs lawyer after an arrest?

Contacting a drug DUI attorney in Nashville-Davidson as soon as possible helps protect your rights and gives you the best chance at a successful defense.

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