Clarksville DUI Lawyer

Clarksville DUI Attorney

Navigating a DUI case can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. The Clarksville, TN, DUI lawyer at Michael J. Thompson, Attorney at Law, have decades of combined experience handling complicated DUI cases throughout Montgomery County and beyond. Our experienced team understands Tennessee DUI laws and can help you create the right defense against your charges.

DUI Cases in Tennessee

No matter the cause of impairment, DUI poses a serious risk to the driver themselves and the world around them, which is why Tennessee has strict DUI laws. Representing yourself in a DUI case can be challenging when you have experienced prosecutors coming after you. It’s beneficial to speak with a Clarksville criminal defense attorney to secure the legal support you deserve.

There were 6,154 total motor vehicle crashes reported in Montgomery County in 2024, including 200 DUI-related incidents. The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security reports that one in three fatal crashes in the state from November 2024 to October 2025 involved DUI. At least half of all DUI crashes resulted in injury or death. If a driver operating a vehicle under the influence doesn’t cause a crash, it’s purely by luck.

There were a total of 20,959 DUI cases overseen by Tennessee courts in 2024 alone, which was a 6.18 percent increase in incidents from 2023. Alcohol impairment accounted for 69.8 percent of these cases, followed by drug impairment at 15.8 percent, and another 14.4 percent involving both alcohol and drugs.

Our mission at Michael J. Thompson, Attorney at Law, is to protect those who find themselves facing charges against the state and to ensure they are being treated fairly under the law. Our team has decades of experience navigating the Montgomery County Court system and can help you build a defense that protects your rights and your future.

Penalties for DUI in Clarksville, TN

The penalties for DUI in Tennessee can vary depending on the severity of the incident and whether or not it was your first offense. Common penalties for DUI convictions in Tennessee include:

• Hefty fines
• Interlock ignition device (IID)
• Jail time
• License suspension or revocation
• Potential vehicle seizure or forfeiture
• Restitution to any victims if you were in an accident
• Substance abuse treatment program

Generally speaking, you can expect to be charged with a misdemeanor for DUI. If you are convicted four or more times, however, you’re charged with a Class E felony instead.

Your fourth and subsequent repeated offenses can result in one year in jail with a minimum of 150 days served consecutively. To put that into perspective, the minimum sentence is 48 hours for a first offense, 45 days for a second offense, and 120 days for a third offense.

Defending against a DUI charge is going to look different for every case. It’s helpful to work with a Clarksville DUI lawyer to build a strong defense against your charges.

Our Local Clarksville, TN DUI Attorneys

Michael J. Thompson, Attorney at Law, has been handling DUI cases in Tennessee for many years. Our team of skilled attorneys brings decades of combined experience that we’re ready to put to work for your case.

We’re proud to offer the honest counsel and aggressive advocacy you deserve to make it through your charges. We’re experienced trial lawyers and can ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.

FAQs About Clarksville, TN DUI Laws

Is it Worth It to Hire a DUI Lawyer for a Case in Clarksville?

It is often worth it to hire a DUI lawyer to represent you in a DUI case in Clarksville, but it is not legally required. A Clarksville DUI attorney can help you understand your case and build the strongest possible defense against your charges.

Our team has decades of experience navigating these types of cases and is familiar with navigating the Montgomery County Court system. We offer honest counsel and aggressive representation in order to help you secure a positive outcome.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a DUI Lawyer in Clarksville?

The cost to hire a Clarksville DUI attorney varies depending on the details of your case. When you hire a DUI lawyer, you can typically expect to pay a fixed fee, an hourly rate, or a retainer, depending on their fee structure.

DUI lawyers generally base prices on their level of experience and the complexity of your case. It’s wise to research before making a final decision to ensure you have the right fit for your specific case.

Can I Go to Jail for a First-Time DUI Offense in Clarksville?

Yes, you can go to jail for a DUI in Clarksville, even if it’s your first offense. Tennessee law imposes a mandatory sentence of at least 48 hours in jail. That said, you can technically get up to 11 months and 29 days. If you have a BAC of .20 or greater, you may be sentenced to a minimum of seven consecutive days in jail. Other aggravating factors can also increase your imposed sentence.

Can I Get a DUI Dismissed in Clarksville?

You can get a DUI charge dismissed in Clarksville, but don’t expect it to be easy. Successfully fighting against your charges is going to require understanding Tennessee DUI laws. You have to build a strong defense based on the information and evidence you have available.

A Clarksville DUI attorney can help you support your position and represent you in court. They can also identify potential issues with your arrest or subsequent processing, which can invalidate the entire case.

Hire a DUI Lawyer to Discuss Your Case in Clarksville in More

Navigating DUI charges can be complicated, especially if you’re trying to manage everything on your own. The good news is you don’t have to represent yourself in your case. In fact, it’s recommended to connect with a Clarksville DUI attorney instead. That way, you have all the support you need to navigate this complex situation.

At Michael J. Thompson, Attorney at Law, we understand what’s at stake in a DUI case and are here to help you through this challenging time so you can move forward with your life. Contact our team to set up a consultation with a trusted attorney today.