DUI offenses in Tennessee are typically considered misdemeanor offense. However, there are several cases where the charges can be increased to a felony offense, which is associated with more severe penalties.
The following are DUI offenses that are considered felonies in Tennessee:
- Fourth and subsequent DUI offense – It is considered a Class E felony, which is punishable by jail/prison sentence between 150 days and six years, a fine between $3,000 and $15,000, license revocation for eight years (with no restricted license available), vehicle subject to seizure, forfeiture, enrollment in an alcohol and drug treatment program, and issuance of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID).
- DUI with child passenger – It is considered a Class D felony if the child suffers an injury, which is punishable by a prison sentence between two and 12 years, fines, court costs, license revocation, and more. However, it is considered a Class B felony if the child dies as a result of the offense, which is punishable by a prison sentence between eight and 30 years, a fine of up to $25,000, court costs, license revocation, and more.
- Vehicular assault (DUI causing serious bodily injury) – It is considered a Class D felony, which is punishable by a prison sentence between two and 12 years, fines, court costs, license revocation, and more.
- Vehicular homicide (DUI causing death) – It is considered a Class B felony, which is punishable by a prison sentence between eight and 30 years, a fine of up to $25,000, license revocation for 3-10 years (with no restricted license available), and more.
- Aggravated vehicular assault – It is considered a Class A felony (if the defendant has two or more prior DUI convictions, prior vehicular assault conviction, or any combination), which is punishable by a prison sentence between 15 and 60 years or a life prison sentence, a fine of up to $50,000, and more.
If you are facing felony DUI charges in Tennessee, contact our Nashville DUI attorney and schedule a free consultation today.