DUI Charges for UT Students: What to Do Next

Have you or someone you know recently faced DUI charges as a UT student? The shock of an arrest can leave University of Tennessee students anxious about academics, athletics, and future careers. In those first few hours, confusion is normal, yet the decisions made during this period often shape both legal and academic outcomes.

A DUI charge in Tennessee is not a minor issue. It carries criminal penalties such as fines, probation, or jail time, while also exposing students to university discipline that can threaten scholarships and enrollment. Understanding the risks early helps students prepare for the steps ahead.

This guide explains DUI charges for UT students, including common charges, immediate actions to take, the court process, penalties, license consequences, UT student conduct issues, evidence, and the role of a student DUI defense lawyer in Knoxville.

What a DUI Charge Means in Tennessee

A DUI charge in Tennessee means driving or being in “physical control” of a vehicle while impaired or with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. This definition applies not only to active drivers but also to anyone sitting in a parked car with the ability to operate it. Understanding this broad definition shows how quickly a student can face serious consequences.

For drivers under 21, the standard is stricter. The BAC limit is just 0.02%, which means even a small amount of alcohol may result in a violation. Tennessee law holds young drivers to higher accountability to discourage underage drinking and driving.

DUI charges are Class A misdemeanors, which bring mandatory jail time and license suspension. When a student’s BAC reaches 0.15% or higher, the law requires at least seven consecutive days in jail, even for a first-time offender.

Immediate Steps to Take After a DUI Arrest

Hire an Attorney

The first step after a DUI arrest is contacting the DUI attorneys in TN quickly. Early involvement allows the lawyer to review the stop and testing procedures. This immediate guidance ensures evidence is examined closely and the defense begins from a strong position.

Track Court Dates

Once the case begins, the student will be assigned arraignment and hearing dates. Recording these deadlines and setting reminders keeps the process organized. Missing court can lead to a bench warrant or harsher penalties from the judge.

Preserve Evidence

Protecting the case requires gathering important details right away. Bar receipts, rideshare history, or text messages that confirm the timing of alcohol use may become valuable. Witnesses should also write down what they observed before their memories fade.

Avoid Self-Incrimination

Caution is necessary when speaking after an arrest. Social media posts or casual remarks can later be used as evidence against the student. To stay protected, details should only be shared with the attorney handling the case.

Types of DUI-Related Charges Students May Face

DUI (21 and Older)

Students 21 and older face DUI charges if their BAC is 0.08% or higher. Visible impairment caused by alcohol or drugs can also qualify under the law.

• Penalties include fines, jail time, and lasting effects on both driving and academic records.

Underage DUI

Students under 21 must follow a stricter BAC standard of 0.02%.

• Penalties: one-year license suspension, $250 fine, and mandatory community service.
• If the student is under 18, the case is handled in juvenile court.

Implied Consent Violation

Tennessee law requires drivers to submit to a chemical test when suspected of DUI. Refusing this test results in automatic license revocation.

• One-year suspension for first refusal.
• Up to a five-year suspension if refusal follows a crash with serious injury or death.

The Court Process for DUI in Tennessee

Arraignment

The arraignment is the first court appearance after a DUI arrest. During this stage, the court presents the formal charges against the student. A plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest must then be entered.

Pre-Trial Motions

Before trial, the defense may file motions to challenge the handling of the case. Lawyers can question the legality of the stop or the accuracy of the breath or blood test results. When motions succeed, key evidence may be excluded from trial.

Resolution

After motions, the case may proceed to plea negotiations, trial, or sentencing. Prosecutors sometimes reduce charges if the evidence is weak or the procedures were flawed. If a conviction occurs, the judge decides penalties that may include fines, probation, or jail time.

Penalties for First-Time DUI in Tennessee

Jail Time

First-time DUI convictions in Tennessee require a minimum of 48 hours in jail. Sentences can extend up to nearly 12 months.

• If BAC is 0.15% or higher → at least 7 consecutive days are mandatory.

Fines

Convictions also carry significant financial penalties.

• $350 to $1,500 in fines for a first offense.
• Additional court costs should also be expected.

License Revocation

A first conviction brings a mandatory one-year license suspension. Driving is prohibited unless a restricted license is granted.

• Losing driving privileges can disrupt school and work responsibilities.

Additional Requirements

Courts impose further conditions to reduce repeat offenses.

• Mandatory alcohol and drug assessments.
• Possible ignition interlock device installation.
• Restitution when property damage occurs.

Driver’s License and Restricted License Options

Standard Revocation

A DUI conviction in Tennessee automatically leads to license revocation. This penalty applies even when it is a first offense. Losing driving privileges can disrupt school, work, and daily responsibilities.

Restricted License

Some first-time offenders may qualify for a restricted license. Courts determine where the student may drive, often limiting travel to work, school, or treatment. These restrictions allow limited independence while still enforcing consequences.

Ignition Interlock

Many restricted licenses require the installation of an ignition interlock device. This device prevents the vehicle from starting without a clean breath sample. Students are also responsible for paying installation and monitoring fees.

University of Tennessee Student Conduct Consequences

Off-Campus Jurisdiction

The University of Tennessee can discipline students for misconduct even when it occurs off campus. A DUI is considered both a violation of state law and a breach of campus safety standards. This authority means legal issues may also trigger university discipline.

Parallel Proceedings

UT disciplinary action can begin while the criminal case is still pending. The outcome in court does not automatically determine university sanctions. Students may therefore face consequences in both systems at the same time.

Possible Sanctions

University sanctions for DUI vary in severity. They may include educational assignments, counseling, or probation for first-time offenses. Serious or repeated violations can result in suspension, expulsion, or loss of athletic eligibility and leadership positions.

Evidence Considered in DUI Cases

Reason for the Stop

DUI cases often begin with the reason an officer stopped the vehicle. Erratic driving, speeding, or other violations can justify the stop. Officer observations, such as slurred speech or alcohol odor, may also support the charge.

Field Sobriety and Chemical Tests

Field sobriety tests include the walk-and-turn, one-leg stand, and horizontal eye test. Officers may also rely on breathalyzer results or blood samples. Calibration logs and chain-of-custody records are reviewed to confirm test reliability.

BAC Levels

Tennessee law sets clear BAC thresholds for DUI cases. Adults face charges at 0.08%, while students under 21 face charges at 0.02%. A BAC of 0.15% or higher requires enhanced minimum jail time.

Conclusion

A DUI arrest can disrupt every part of a UT student’s life, from academics to personal goals. The consequences reach far beyond one night, and the steps taken immediately matter most. Protecting your future begins with action.

Act quickly by securing an attorney, preserving evidence, and preparing for both the court process and university discipline. Tennessee’s DUI laws are strict, and UT’s conduct system adds another layer of challenges. Strong guidance helps students face both systems with confidence.

At Eldridge & Cravens, P.C., we understand how overwhelming a DUI arrest can be for University of Tennessee students. Our Knoxville DUI & criminal defense attorneys know how to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and guide you through both court and university proceedings. Contact us today at (865) 544-2010 to schedule a confidential consultation. Take action now and let our team help you move forward with confidence.