The Role of a DUI Defense Attorney in Tennessee
Driving under the influence isn’t just a traffic violation-it’s a serious legal matter that requires an expert defense.
A skilled DUI attorney will scrutinize every aspect of your case, from the legality of the stop to the reliability of test results, to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument. At Crabtree & Patterson, we’ll fight to minimize penalties or even get the charges dropped.
Why Hire Representation for a DUI Charge?
Protect Your Driving Privileges
Losing your license can significantly disrupt your life. Our experienced attorneys work to keep you on the road and behind the wheel.
Avoid Severe Penalties
Fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record can follow a DUI conviction. We’ll strategize to minimize or eliminate these consequences.
Challenge the Evidence
Not all evidence is reliable or accurate. Our team will dissect every detail to find inconsistencies or errors in the prosecution’s case.
Recent DUI Cases We’ve Won For Our Clients
Types of DUI Cases We Take On
When it comes to Cookeville DUI charges, no case is too complex for Crabtree & Patterson. Turn to us for help with cases involving…
If Tennessee law enforcement stopped you without valid cause, your constitutional rights may have been violated. We’ll carefully examine the circumstances of your traffic stop, looking for evidence of unlawful actions.
Breathalyzer machines are not infallible, and their accuracy can be affected by improper calibration, maintenance, or use. We thoroughly investigate the device used in your case and the procedures followed, aiming to discredit unreliable test results.
Field sobriety tests are highly subjective and often prone to error due to bias, improper administration, or physical conditions unrelated to intoxication. We highlight these flaws to demonstrate why the results should not be used as definitive evidence of impairment.
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or neurological disorders, can mimic the signs of intoxication. Our legal team collaborates with medical experts to demonstrate how these conditions may have been misunderstood.
Residual alcohol from substances like mouthwash, cough syrups, or dental treatments can cause artificially high BAC readings. Our attorneys dig into the specifics of your test to uncover any potential errors caused by these factors.
When law enforcement oversteps its boundaries, it puts your rights at risk. Whether it’s an unlawful search, coercion, or failure to follow proper procedures, we’ll expose any misconduct and use it to advocate for a fair resolution in your case.
Facing a DUI Charge? We’re Here to Protect You.
A DUI charge shouldn’t derail your life. At Crabtree & Patterson, we provide fierce representation to challenge your case and deliver the best possible outcome.
Don’t face the consequences alone. Get our team on your side.
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What Sets Our Cookeville Law Firm Apart
Proven
Results
We don’t just handle cases-we win them. Our impressive track record within the Cookeville area speaks for itself.
Tennessee Law Expertise
As local attorneys, we know the ins and outs of Tennessee DUI law and how to use it to your advantage.
Individual Approaches
You won’t find any cookie-cutter approaches at our firm. Your case will receive the personalized attention it deserves.
Have an Attorney Review Your DUI Case
Every DUI case is unique, and so is our approach. We understand what’s at stake ー your freedom, finances, and reputation ー and we’ll do everything in our power to protect them.
Contact Crabtree & Patterson today to start building a defense you can trust.
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DUI Charge
Frequently Asked Questions
A first-time DUI conviction in Tennessee can lead to time spent in the Putnam County Jail, fines ranging from $350 to $1,500, and a license suspension of up to one year. Repeat offenses result in even harsher penalties, including longer license suspensions and mandatory ignition interlock devices.
The penalties for driving under the influence can escalate quickly, but with the right defense, it’s possible to reduce or even avoid them. Our skilled DUI attorneys have tried and settled cases throughout Cookeville, Baxter, Monterey, and other cities within Putnam County. We will closely evaluate your case and fight for a favorable outcome.
In Tennessee, driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher constitutes drunk driving. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, it’s 0.02%.
However, BAC isn’t the only factor. Even without a high BAC, you can be charged if law enforcement believes your driving was impaired by alcohol or drugs.
A DUI attorney will analyze every detail of your case, from the traffic stop to the evidence collected, to identify weaknesses. They’ll negotiate with prosecutors and, if necessary, defend you in court.
Ultimately, hiring an experienced lawyer gives you the best chance of avoiding a conviction or reducing the impact on your life.
If you were falsely accused, we always recommend acting quickly. Document everything about the incident, including your interaction with law enforcement, the location and time of the stop, and any other relevant details. Then, contact an experienced DUI defense attorney immediately.
Under Tennessee law, law enforcement must have reasonable suspicion to initiate a traffic stop. Additionally, any evidence collected, such as field sobriety test results or breathalyzer readings, must adhere to strict protocols to be admissible in court.
If these legal standards are not met, the charges may be challenged or dismissed.
Your lawyer will thoroughly investigate the traffic stop, the testing procedures, and the evidence to identify errors, inconsistencies, or potential misconduct.
Our DUI defense services are available in Cookeville and surrounding areas, including Putnam, Cumberland, White, Overton, Smith, Warren, Jackson, Clay, and Rutherford counties.
We are well-versed in handling cases in local courthouses throughout these areas, including:
- Putnam County Justice Center in Cookeville
- Cumberland County Courthouse in Crossville
- White County Courthouse in Sparta
- Overton County Courthouse in Livingston
- Smith County Courthouse in Carthage
- Warren County Courthouse in McMinnville
- Jackson County Courthouse in Gainesboro
- Clay County Courthouse in Celina
- Rutherford County Judicial Center in Murfreesboro
Our attorneys are deeply familiar with the judges, prosecutors, and processes of these courthouses, which allows us to develop strategic defenses for each case. Whether your case involves a first-time DUI or a more complex matter, we are here to provide strong representation in the courtroom.
Contact an Experienced DUI Defence Lawyer in Cookeville, TN
Your case deserves the best representation available. If you’ve been charged, reach out to our team today to discuss the details and plan your path forward.
Schedule a Free Consultation