First Offense DUI Attorney in Nashville

Arrested For A First DUI In Nashville? Start Your Defense Now

A first DUI arrest in Nashville can turn your life upside down overnight. You may be wondering if you will go to jail, lose your license, or have a criminal record that follows you for years. In this moment, you need clear information and a steady guide, not judgment.

At Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby, we represent people facing their first drunk driving charge in Nashville and surrounding Davidson County courts. We focus on helping you understand what this charge really means, what will happen next, and what can be done to protect your future. Our criminal defense practice is built on careful preparation, honest advice, and accessible support.

Our attorney has handled thousands of criminal cases, including many involving DUI, in Tennessee courts. We combine that experience with a non-judgmental, client-centered approach so you are never left in the dark about your options. To talk with a first offense DUI attorney in Nashville before your first court date, you can call us for a consultation.

If you are searching for a first offense DUI attorney in Nashville, do not wait to protect your rights. We offer a free consultation and 24/7 availability to ensure you have the support you need when you need it most. Call us at (615) 745-3434 or contact us online to start building your defense today.

Understanding First Offense DUI Laws in Tennessee

In Tennessee, the legal framework for driving under the influence is primarily governed by TCA § 55-10-401. This statute makes it unlawful for any person to drive or be in physical control of any automobile or other motor-driven vehicle on any of the public roads or highways while under the influence of any intoxicant, marijuana, controlled substance, or drug that impairs the driver's ability to safely operate the vehicle. 

Additionally, Tennessee utilizes a "per se" law, meaning if your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is .08% or higher, you are legally considered intoxicated regardless of how well you appear to be functioning.

It is important to distinguish a first offense DUI attorney in Nashville case from other traffic violations. Unlike a simple speeding ticket, a DUI is a criminal offense. Even if it is your first time being pulled over, Tennessee law mandates a minimum period of jail time upon conviction.

Penalties of DUI Convictions in Tennessee

The penalties for a first offense DUI attorney in Nashville are surprisingly severe, as the state takes a zero-tolerance approach to intoxicated driving. If convicted of a first-offense DUI in Tennessee, you face the following statutory penalties:

• Jail Time: A minimum of 48 hours in jail, up to 11 months and 29 days. If your BAC was .20% or higher, the minimum mandatory jail time increases to 7 consecutive days.
• Fines: Fines ranging from $350 to $1,500, not including court costs and various administrative fees.
• License Revocation: Your driver’s license will be revoked for a period of one year.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): You will likely be required to install an IID in your vehicle at your own expense, which requires a breath sample before the car will start.
• Alcohol Safety Program: Mandatory attendance in a DUI school or victim impact panel.

Beyond these legal penalties, the collateral consequences can be devastating. A permanent criminal record can lead to the loss of employment, especially if your job involves driving or professional licensing. Your insurance premiums will skyrocket, and you may find it difficult to secure housing or educational loans. 

Because Tennessee does not allow for the expungement of a DUI, this conviction stays on your record permanently unless the charges are reduced or dismissed through the help of a Nashville first-DUI defense lawyer.

How We Help First DUI Clients

If this is your first DUI, the legal process can feel overwhelming and unfamiliar. We focus on explaining each step in plain language, answering questions, and helping you understand what to expect. From your first call, we review the facts, examine your paperwork, and begin identifying issues that could affect how your case moves forward in court.

We closely review the stop, arrest, and testing procedures to look for legal problems and possible defenses. Throughout the case, we prioritize limiting jail exposure, protecting driving privileges, and reducing long-term consequences. Just as important, we provide respectful, non-judgmental support, recognizing that a first DUI often involves good people facing a difficult moment.

At the Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby, we do not believe in a "one-size-fits-all" defense. We know that every first offense DUI attorney in Nashville case involves unique circumstances, from the calibration of the breathalyzer machine to the specific medical conditions of the driver. 

Our firm utilizes a multi-angled strategy:

• Challenging Field Sobriety Tests: These tests are highly subjective and often administered incorrectly. We scrutinize whether the officer followed the strict National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) guidelines. Factors like uneven pavement, poor lighting, or physical injuries can render these tests invalid.
• Analyzing Chemical Test Accuracy: Breathalyzers must be maintained and calibrated according to specific state regulations. Blood samples must follow a strict chain of custody. If there is a gap in the records or a flaw in the testing science, we fight to have those results excluded.
• Constitutional Protections: We ensure your Fourth Amendment rights were not violated. If the officer lacked probable cause to arrest you, the evidence obtained after that arrest should not be used against you.
• Mitigation and Negotiation: We highlight your clean record and positive contributions to the community to persuade prosecutors that a harsh sentence is not in the interest of justice.

What To Do After A First DUI Arrest

Right after a first DUI arrest, it is easy to feel frozen and unsure what to do. Taking a few careful steps in the days that follow can help protect your rights and give your attorney important information to work with. These actions also show the court that you are taking the situation seriously.

Helpful steps to take after a first DUI arrest:

• Check your citation or release paperwork for your court date, time, and courtroom location.
• Write down everything you remember about the traffic stop, tests, and any conversations with officers while details are fresh.
• Avoid discussing the facts of your case on social media or with anyone other than your lawyer or a close family member you trust.
• Do not contact the officer or prosecutor directly to try to explain, since statements can be used against you.
• Gather any paperwork related to your driver’s license and insurance so your attorney can review possible license issues under Tennessee law.
• Contact a DUI defense lawyer promptly so there is time to prepare before your first court appearance in the Nashville area.

We routinely help clients organize these early steps and answer questions about what will happen at the first court date. When you bring your documents and your timeline to our office, we review them with you and start mapping out a plan tailored to your specific facts.

Why Choose Our Nashville DUI Defense

When you are deciding who to trust with your first DUI case, you need more than a name on a website. You need a firm that has handled a large volume of criminal matters in Tennessee and understands how these cases move through Nashville courts. At Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby, our attorney has worked on thousands of criminal cases, which gives us a practical sense of what to expect and how to prepare.

Cost is another major concern for people deciding whether to hire counsel. Our firm is committed to affordability and transparency about fees. We explain expected costs up front and maintain open communication about any developments that might affect time and expense. This allows you to plan rather than worry about surprise charges.

Because we are based in Nashville, we are familiar with Nashville-Davidson court calendars and procedures. We understand the local expectations for first-time DUI defendants and work within that system to pursue the most favorable resolution that your facts support. If you are facing a first DUI charge here and want guidance grounded both in experience and compassion, we invite you to reach out.

To discuss your situation with our team and start building a plan, call (615) 745-3434 or reach out online now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I go to jail for my first DUI?

Jail time is possible for a first DUI under Tennessee law, but the actual result depends on your case facts and any mandatory minimums that may apply. We review the evidence and your background, then work to pursue outcomes that reduce jail exposure whenever the circumstances allow.

Can I keep my license after a first DUI arrest?

A first DUI can lead to a license suspension, although options such as restricted licenses may be available in some situations. The rules depend on your specific charge and any test results. We examine your paperwork and help you understand what steps may protect your ability to drive.

What will a first DUI do to my record?

A first DUI charge can affect criminal and driving records, which may be seen by employers or licensing boards. The long-term impact depends on how the case is resolved. We discuss potential outcomes with you and work to pursue resolutions that limit damage to your future when possible.

How can your firm help with my first DUI?

We review every part of your stop and arrest, explain the court process, and guide you through each decision. Our attorney’s experience with thousands of criminal cases and our non-judgmental approach help you feel supported. We focus on protecting your rights and working toward the best available path forward.

How much does it cost to hire you?

Costs for DUI defense vary based on the complexity of the case and how far it goes in court. We prioritize affordability and transparency, so we explain expected fees at the beginning and answer any questions you have about payment. Our goal is to provide quality representation without unnecessary financial strain.

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