New Ignition Interlock Law in Tennessee

A new law regarding ignition interlock devices for first-time drunk driving offenders in Tennessee went into effect on July 1 of this year. The law was enacted after the passage of House Bill 353 and Senate Bill 670 by the legislature. The passage of the new law adds Tennessee to a list of 18 states which require ignition interlock devices for first-time offenders who drive their vehicles with a blood alcohol content of .08 percent or more. The new law in Tennessee requires these DUI offenders to install and use the device for six months as part of being allowed to drive on a restricted license. Those convicted of DUI will be required to pay for the installation and maintenance of the device at their own expense.

As part of new ignition interlock device technology, devices used under the new law will be required to include a camera in the installation which will take a photograph whenever the device is activated. The photograph will show who is blowing into the breathalyzer; this will discourage offenders from getting someone else to blow into the device prior to starting their vehicles. Ignition interlock devices are attached to the ignition of vehicles and are designed to prevent your car from starting should your blood alcohol content be above the officially prescribed limit.

DUI and Criminal Defense Firm in Memphis, Tennessee

DUI which involves drunk driving as well as drug-impaired driving is a serious offense in Tennessee with many penalties. Those penalties just increased with the passage of the above new law. Penalties include heavy fines which can go as high as $1,500, potential jail time of up to a year, a one-year license suspension, a possible alcohol and / or drug treatment program, an increase in your auto insurance rates, and a future with a permanent mark on your criminal record.

Getting skilled legal representation is crucial in any DUI case if you want to obtain the best possible results. The Claiborne Ferguson Law Firm, P.A. is a criminal defense with an outstanding reputation serving the Memphis area. Attorney Ferguson is a Certified Criminal Trial Specialist which is the highest professional achievement possible. This means that he is a legal expert in handling criminal trial cases, a status few attorneys in the state have attained. Furthermore, the firm has earned the highest rating from Avvo, which is a 10.0 out of 10 "Superb." It has also earned the Avvo Clients' Choice Award in 2012 in Criminal Defense. All of these facts reflect the high level of skill and professionalism you can expect when bringing your case to the firm. Contact the law offices to schedule a free case consultation if you have been charged with any type of state or federal crime as soon as possible.