Memphis DUI Lawyers

Aggressive DUI Defense Representation in Memphis

 

Being charged with DUI in Memphis can have serious consequences that affect your freedom, finances, reputation, and future. Even a first-time DUI conviction in Tennessee may result in jail time, license suspension, heavy fines, increased insurance costs, and a permanent criminal record.

At The Wharton Law Firm, our Memphis DUI lawyers represent individuals charged with DUI, DWI, impaired driving, and alcohol-related offenses throughout Memphis and surrounding Tennessee communities. We understand that good people can find themselves facing serious criminal charges after a single mistake, traffic stop, or misunderstanding.

Our firm works aggressively to challenge DUI allegations, protect constitutional rights, and pursue the best possible outcome for every client.

 

What Is a DUI Charge in Tennessee?

Under Tennessee law, a person may be charged with DUI if they operate or are in physical control of a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substances.

A driver may face DUI charges if:

• Their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08% or higher

• Officers believe their ability to drive is impaired

• Prescription drugs or controlled substances allegedly affected driving ability

DUI cases often involve complex legal and scientific issues related to traffic stops, field sobriety tests, breath testing, blood testing, and constitutional rights.

 

What Types of DUI Cases Do Our Memphis DUI Lawyers Handle?

First-Time DUI Charges

A first DUI offense can still carry severe penalties in Tennessee, including jail time, fines, probation, and license suspension.

Penalties May Include:

• Jail time

• Driver’s license suspension

• Court costs and fines

• DUI school requirements

• Ignition interlock device requirements

• Increased insurance premiums

Even first-time offenders should take DUI charges seriously and seek experienced legal representation.

 

Felony DUI Charges

Certain DUI cases may be charged as felonies under Tennessee law.

Felony DUI Situations May Include:

• Multiple DUI convictions

• DUI causing serious bodily injury

• Vehicular assault

• DUI involving death

• Child endangerment allegations

Felony convictions can result in lengthy prison sentences and long-term consequences.

 

DUI Drug Charges

Drivers may also face DUI charges involving:

Common DUI Drug Allegations Include:

• Marijuana impairment

• Prescription medication impairment

• Controlled substances

• Combination alcohol and drug impairment

These cases often involve complicated toxicology evidence and legal defenses.

 

Underage DUI Charges

Drivers under the age of 21 may face strict penalties under Tennessee’s zero-tolerance laws.

Consequences May Include:

• License suspension

• Fines

• Criminal charges

• Increased insurance costs

Young drivers facing DUI allegations should seek legal counsel immediately.

 

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Memphis?

After a DUI arrest, individuals may face both criminal charges and administrative penalties involving their driver’s license.

 

Traffic Stop and Investigation

Most DUI cases begin with a traffic stop. Officers may claim they observed:

Common DUI Allegations Include:

• Swerving

• Speeding

• Erratic driving

• Odor of alcohol

• Bloodshot eyes

• Slurred speech

However, these observations are often subjective and may not always justify an arrest.

 

Field Sobriety Tests

Officers frequently ask drivers to perform field sobriety tests during DUI investigations.

Common Tests Include:

• Walk-and-turn test

• One-leg stand test

• Horizontal gaze nystagmus test

These tests are not always reliable and may be affected by medical conditions, fatigue, anxiety, uneven pavement, weather, or improper instructions.

 

Breath and Blood Testing

DUI prosecutions often rely heavily on chemical testing.

Testing May Involve:

• Breathalyzer machines

• Blood alcohol testing

• Drug screening

• Toxicology reports

Errors involving testing procedures, machine calibration, chain of custody, or laboratory analysis may affect the reliability of evidence.

 

Can DUI Charges Be Dismissed?

Yes, in some situations DUI charges may be reduced or dismissed depending on the facts and legal issues involved.

Potential defenses may involve:

Illegal Traffic Stops

Police officers must generally have reasonable suspicion to stop a vehicle.

Lack of Probable Cause

Officers must have probable cause before making a DUI arrest.

Inaccurate Field Sobriety Tests

Field sobriety tests are subjective and may produce unreliable results.

Breathalyzer Errors

Breath testing devices require proper calibration and administration.

Constitutional Violations

Violations involving unlawful searches, seizures, or arrests may affect admissibility of evidence.

Every DUI case is unique, and legal defenses depend on the specific circumstances involved.

 

What Are the Consequences of a DUI Conviction in Tennessee?

A DUI conviction can affect nearly every area of a person’s life.

Consequences May Include:

• Jail time

• Probation

• License suspension

• Heavy fines

• Permanent criminal record

• Increased insurance rates

• Employment consequences

• Professional licensing issues

For many individuals, the long-term consequences extend far beyond the courtroom.

 

Why Choose The Wharton Law Firm?

At The Wharton Law Firm, we understand how stressful and overwhelming DUI charges can be. Our Memphis DUI lawyers are committed to protecting clients’ rights and aggressively defending against criminal allegations.

Our firm focuses on:

 

We Are Committed To:

• Thorough case investigations

• Challenging unlawful police conduct

• Protecting constitutional rights

• Aggressive courtroom advocacy

• Personalized defense strategies

We represent clients throughout Memphis and surrounding Tennessee communities facing serious DUI and criminal charges.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Memphis DUI Charges

 

Can I refuse a breath test in Tennessee?

Tennessee has implied consent laws that may result in additional penalties for refusing chemical testing.

Will I lose my license after a DUI arrest?

Possibly. License suspension issues often depend on prior history and the circumstances of the case.

Do I need a lawyer for a first-time DUI?

Even first-time DUI charges can carry serious consequences. An experienced attorney may help identify defenses and protect your rights.

Can a DUI affect my job?

Yes. A DUI conviction may impact employment opportunities, professional licenses, and insurance costs.

Contact a Memphis DUI Lawyer Today

If you were arrested for DUI in Memphis, contact The Wharton Law Firm today.

Our Memphis DUI attorneys are prepared to investigate your case, challenge the evidence against you, and fight for the best possible outcome.

Call today for a confidential consultation.