What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Tennessee?

July 2, 2026

Being arrested for DUI in Tennessee can be overwhelming, stressful, and confusing — especially if it is your first encounter with the criminal justice system. Many people are unsure what happens next, what penalties they may face, or how a DUI conviction could affect their future.

If you have been charged with driving under the influence in Tennessee, understanding the legal process is extremely important. The decisions you make immediately after your arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

At Caldwell & Morrison, we help individuals throughout Chattanooga and surrounding Tennessee communities protect their rights and navigate DUI charges with experienced legal representation.


What Is Considered DUI in Tennessee?

Under Tennessee law, a person can be charged with DUI if they are operating a motor vehicle:

  • With a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher
  • While impaired by alcohol
  • While impaired by illegal drugs
  • While impaired by prescription medication
  • While impaired by any intoxicating substance that affects safe driving ability

Even if your BAC is below 0.08%, officers may still arrest you if they believe your driving ability was impaired.


What Happens During a DUI Traffic Stop?

Most DUI cases begin with a traffic stop.

An officer may pull someone over for reasons such as:

  • Swerving
  • Speeding
  • Running a red light
  • Reckless driving
  • Equipment violations
  • Suspicion of impaired driving

After the stop, the officer may begin looking for signs of impairment, including:

  • Slurred speech
  • Bloodshot eyes
  • Odor of alcohol
  • Delayed responses
  • Difficulty following instructions

The officer may then request field sobriety tests or chemical testing.


Field Sobriety Tests and Breath Tests

Police officers often use field sobriety tests to evaluate possible impairment.

Common field sobriety tests include:

  • Walk-and-turn test
  • One-leg stand test
  • Horizontal gaze nystagmus test

Officers may also request a breathalyzer or blood test.

Tennessee has implied consent laws, meaning drivers who refuse chemical testing may face additional penalties, including license suspension.

However, refusing a test does not automatically guarantee a conviction or dismissal. Every DUI case depends on its specific facts and evidence.


Arrest and Booking Process

If the officer believes there is probable cause for DUI, you may be placed under arrest and transported to jail for booking.

The booking process typically includes:

  • Fingerprinting
  • Mugshots
  • Collection of personal information
  • Recording charges
  • Possible bond setting

Depending on the circumstances, some individuals may be released after posting bond, while others may remain in custody until a hearing.


Your Driver’s License May Be Affected

A DUI arrest can trigger immediate consequences involving your driver’s license.

Potential penalties may include:

  • License suspension
  • Restricted driving privileges
  • Ignition interlock requirements

The length of suspension often depends on factors such as:

  • Prior DUI history
  • BAC level
  • Test refusal
  • Injuries or accidents involved

Protecting your driving privileges is one of the many reasons it is important to speak with a DUI defense attorney as soon as possible.


Court Appearances After a DUI Arrest

After your arrest, you will typically be required to attend several court proceedings.

These may include:

Arraignment

The formal reading of charges where you enter a plea.

Pretrial Hearings

Your attorney may review evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, file motions, or challenge parts of the case.

Trial

If no agreement is reached, the case may proceed to trial where the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

An experienced DUI defense attorney can evaluate whether:

  • The traffic stop was lawful
  • Testing procedures were proper
  • Evidence was legally obtained
  • Constitutional rights were violated


Penalties for DUI in Tennessee

DUI penalties in Tennessee can be serious, even for first-time offenders.

Possible consequences may include:

  • Jail time
  • Fines and court costs
  • Probation
  • License suspension
  • Alcohol treatment programs
  • Community service
  • Ignition interlock device installation

Penalties become significantly more severe for:

  • Multiple DUI offenses
  • High BAC levels
  • Accidents involving injuries
  • Child passengers
  • Felony DUI cases

A conviction can also affect employment, insurance rates, professional licenses, and future opportunities.


Defenses May Be Available in DUI Cases

Every DUI case is unique, and an arrest does not automatically mean a conviction.

Potential DUI defenses may involve:

  • Illegal traffic stops
  • Faulty breathalyzer results
  • Improper testing procedures
  • Inaccurate field sobriety tests
  • Lack of probable cause
  • Medical conditions affecting test results
  • Violations of constitutional rights

An experienced criminal defense attorney can carefully examine the facts of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence.


Why Hiring a Local Chattanooga DUI Attorney Matters

Local experience can make a major difference in criminal defense cases.

An attorney familiar with Chattanooga courts and Tennessee DUI laws understands:

  • Local court procedures
  • Prosecutor practices
  • Hamilton County legal processes
  • Tennessee sentencing guidelines
  • Potential diversion or negotiation options

Early legal intervention can sometimes help reduce penalties, protect your record, or improve the overall outcome of your case.


What To Do After a DUI Arrest

If you have been arrested for DUI in Tennessee:

  1. Remain calm and respectful
  2. Avoid discussing your case publicly
  3. Do not post about the arrest on social media
  4. Gather important documents and information
  5. Contact an experienced DUI defense attorney immediately

The sooner you seek legal guidance, the better your chances of protecting your rights and building a strong defense strategy.


Protect Your Future After a DUI Arrest

A DUI charge can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face the process alone.

At Caldwell & Morrison, we help clients throughout Chattanooga and Tennessee understand their options and aggressively protect their rights during every stage of the criminal defense process.

Charged With DUI in Tennessee?

Contact Caldwell & Morrison today for a confidential consultation and experienced legal representation for DUI and criminal defense matters in Chattanooga and surrounding Tennessee communities.

What to Do After a Personal Injury Accident in Tennessee: A Step-by-Step Guide

July 10, 2026
Accidents happen when you least expect them. Whether you've been injured in a car accident, a slip and fall, or another incident caused by someone else's negligence, the moments afterward can be overwhelming. Medical bills begin to pile up, insurance companies start asking questions, and you may be unable to work while recovering. Knowing what to do after a personal injury accident can protect both your health and your legal rights. At Caldwell & Morrison, we understand how stressful these situations can be, and we're committed to helping injury victims throughout the Chattanooga area pursue the compensation they deserve. Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately Your health should always be your first priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, it's important to see a medical professional as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as concussions, internal injuries, or soft tissue damage, may not show symptoms right away. Prompt medical treatment also creates documentation that may be important if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim. Step 2: Report the Accident Depending on the type of accident, notify the appropriate authorities. Call law enforcement after a motor vehicle accident. Report slip and fall accidents to the property owner or manager. Notify your employer if the injury occurred at work. Request copies of any accident reports whenever possible. Step 3: Gather Evidence If you're physically able, collect as much information as you can at the scene. Helpful evidence includes: Photos of the accident scene Photos of your injuries Contact information for witnesses Insurance information from other parties Any damaged property The more evidence you preserve early, the stronger your claim may be later. Step 4: Be Careful When Speaking With Insurance Companies Insurance adjusters may contact you shortly after an accident. While they may appear helpful, remember that their goal is often to settle claims quickly and for as little as possible. Avoid: Admitting fault Speculating about what happened Giving recorded statements without understanding your rights Accepting a quick settlement before knowing the full extent of your injuries An experienced attorney can help you communicate with insurance companies and protect your interests. Step 5: Keep Records of Everything A successful personal injury claim often depends on thorough documentation. Keep copies of: Medical records and bills Prescription receipts Physical therapy expenses Lost wage documentation Vehicle repair estimates Correspondence with insurance companies You may also benefit from keeping a journal describing your pain levels, medical appointments, and how your injuries affect your daily life. Understanding Compensation in a Personal Injury Claim Every case is unique, but injured individuals may be able to recover compensation for damages such as: Medical expenses Future medical treatment Lost income Reduced earning capacity Pain and suffering Property damage The value of a claim depends on many factors, including the severity of the injury, available evidence, and the circumstances surrounding the accident. Why Legal Representation Matters Personal injury cases can quickly become complicated. Insurance companies often dispute liability, question medical treatment, or attempt to minimize the value of a claim. Having an attorney on your side allows you to focus on healing while someone else handles the legal process. An experienced lawyer can investigate the accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and, when necessary, advocate for you in court. Caldwell & Morrison Is Here to Help If you've been injured because of someone else's negligence, you don't have to navigate the legal process alone. The attorneys at Caldwell & Morrison provide compassionate guidance and dedicated representation to clients facing civil legal matters, including personal injury claims. If you have questions about your legal options, contact Caldwell & Morrison to schedule a consultation. Their team is committed to helping clients throughout the Chattanooga area understand their rights and pursue the justice they deserve.

What To Expect During the Divorce Process in Tennessee

July 2, 2026
Divorce can be one of the most emotionally and financially difficult experiences a person faces. Questions about property division, child custody, finances, and the future often create stress and uncertainty for everyone involved. While every divorce case is different, understanding the general divorce process in Tennessee can help reduce confusion and allow you to make more informed decisions during this important transition. At Caldwell & Morrison, we help individuals and families throughout Chattanooga and Tennessee navigate divorce and family law matters with experienced legal guidance and compassionate representation. Grounds for Divorce in Tennessee Tennessee allows both fault-based and no-fault divorces. No-Fault Divorce The most common no-fault grounds include: Irreconcilable differences In these cases, neither spouse must prove wrongdoing to obtain a divorce. Fault-Based Divorce Tennessee also recognizes several fault-based grounds, including: Adultery Abandonment Cruel and inhuman treatment Substance abuse Conviction of certain crimes Inappropriate marital conduct Fault allegations can sometimes affect issues such as alimony, property division, or custody depending on the circumstances. Filing for Divorce The divorce process officially begins when one spouse files a Complaint for Divorce with the appropriate Tennessee court. The spouse filing the case is known as the: Plaintiff The other spouse becomes the: Defendant After filing, the divorce papers must be formally served on the other party. The responding spouse then has an opportunity to file an official response with the court. Temporary Orders During Divorce Divorce cases can take time to resolve, and temporary issues often need immediate attention. The court may issue temporary orders regarding: Child custody Parenting schedules Child support Spousal support Use of marital property Payment of bills and expenses These temporary arrangements remain in place until the final divorce agreement or court order is entered. Property Division in Tennessee Tennessee follows the legal principle of equitable distribution. This means marital property is divided fairly, though not always equally. Marital property may include: Homes and real estate Retirement accounts Bank accounts Vehicles Investments Business interests Debts accumulated during marriage The court may consider factors such as: Length of the marriage Contributions of each spouse Financial circumstances Future earning capacity Separate property owned before marriage may sometimes remain with the original owner, though disputes can arise depending on how assets were handled during the marriage. Child Custody and Parenting Plans When children are involved, Tennessee courts focus on the best interests of the child. Custody decisions may involve: Parenting schedules Decision-making authority Residential arrangements Holiday schedules Child support obligations Tennessee courts generally encourage both parents to maintain healthy relationships with their children whenever appropriate. Parenting plans are often required to outline responsibilities and visitation schedules in detail. Child Support and Alimony Child Support Tennessee uses child support guidelines that consider factors such as: Income of both parents Parenting time Healthcare costs Childcare expenses Alimony In some divorces, one spouse may be ordered to pay spousal support. The court may evaluate: Length of the marriage Financial need Earning capacity Standard of living during marriage Contributions to the household Not every divorce results in alimony, but it may become a significant issue in certain cases. Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce Uncontested Divorce An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on major issues, including: Property division Custody Child support Alimony These cases are often resolved faster and with lower legal costs. Contested Divorce A contested divorce occurs when spouses disagree on one or more important issues. Contested cases may involve: Negotiations Mediation Court hearings Discovery processes Trial These cases can become more complex and emotionally challenging. Mediation in Tennessee Divorce Cases Tennessee courts often require mediation before contested divorce cases proceed to trial. Mediation allows spouses to work with a neutral third party to attempt resolution outside of court. Benefits of mediation may include: Reduced legal costs Faster resolutions More privacy Greater control over outcomes Reduced conflict Not all cases settle during mediation, but many disputes can be resolved without a full trial. How Long Does Divorce Take in Tennessee? The timeline depends heavily on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. Tennessee waiting periods generally include: 60 days for couples without minor children 90 days for couples with minor children Contested divorces involving property disputes or custody issues may take significantly longer. Complex cases sometimes continue for many months or more. Why Hiring a Divorce Attorney Matters Divorce can affect nearly every aspect of your life, including your finances, children, property, and future stability. An experienced Tennessee divorce attorney can help: Protect your legal rights Explain your options Negotiate fair agreements Represent you in court Reduce costly mistakes Advocate for your long-term interests Having experienced legal guidance can make a significant difference during emotionally difficult situations. Protect Your Future During Divorce Divorce is never easy, but understanding the legal process can help you feel more prepared and informed as you move forward. At Caldwell & Morrison, we help clients throughout Chattanooga and Tennessee navigate divorce, child custody, parenting plans, alimony, and other family law matters with skilled and compassionate representation. Considering Divorce in Tennessee? Contact Caldwell & Morrison today for a confidential consultation and experienced guidance for divorce and family law matters in Chattanooga and surrounding Tennessee communities.