No matter how bleak a situation may appear at the outset of a criminal arrest, people in Tennessee should always remember that the criminal justice system allows them the ability to defend themselves against charges made against them. While the outcome of a defense may vary, this is nonetheless a very important right that people may exercise even for drunk driving charges.
One man in Tennessee experienced this firsthand just last year. Reports recently surfaced about an arrest made early in 2016 after officers stopped a vehicle when the driver did not dim the headlights appropriately. After allegedly failing field sobriety tests and using incorrect terms when asked questions, he was placed under arrest for driving while under the influence. It is not known if he took a breath or blood test and, if he did, what his blood alcohol content was.
Roughly six months after his arrest, the man’s DUI charge was dismissed and instead he entered a guilty plea to a charge of reckless driving. He paid court fees and a fine that totalled approximately $550 and was ordered to give 24 hours of his time for community service. A jail sentence was suspended and he also completed substance treatment.
After a drunk driving arrest in Tennessee, residents may find it helpful to have a consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney. This may offer insight into what type of defense options are available for defendants.
Source: Knoxville News Sentinel, “New Tennessee OL coach Walt Wells charged with DUI in 2016,” Phil Kaplan, Feb. 10, 2017
