What To Do If You Are Arrested For A DUI While on Vacation in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Sevierville
If you were visiting Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Sevierville and got arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), you’re not alone. Every year, millions of tourists come to East Tennessee to enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee whiskey, and famous Gatlinburg moonshine distilleries. But one wrong decision can turn a relaxing getaway into a serious criminal case in Sevier County court.
The good news? The right Tennessee DUI defense lawyer can protect your license, minimize court appearances, and help you fight the charge even if you live hundreds of miles away.
Step One: Find Out Where Your DUI Happened
Before you do anything else, check whether you were arrested inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park or on state or county roads.
Inside the park: your case will go to federal court in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee.
Outside the park: your case goes to Sevier County General Sessions Court in Sevierville, Tennessee, or another local court such as Knox County, Blount County, or Anderson County depending on where the stop occurred.
Knowing the right court matters because federal DUI charges follow different procedures than Tennessee state DUI laws.
Step Two: How to Get Out of Jail After a DUI Arrest in Sevier County
If you’re from out of state, posting bond can be confusing. Bonding companies in Gatlinburg or Sevierville may charge higher fees for tourists since they worry you won’t come back for court.
Here’s what to do:
Post a cash bond through the Sevier County Clerk of Court if possible. Someone can deposit the full bond amount and you’ll get most of it back when the case ends.
Use a bondsman only if necessary. Expect to pay 10%–15% of the total bond amount, which you won’t get back.
Step Three: Understanding Your First Court Date in Sevier County
Your first appearance is called an arraignment. It’s usually set about a month after your arrest in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. At that hearing:
The judge confirms your DUI charge.
You’re asked whether you have an attorney.
The court sets your next hearing date.
If you hire a local Gatlinburg DUI lawyer early, they can often waive your personal appearance and appear for you. That saves you a trip back to Tennessee.
Step Four: Hiring a Tennessee DUI Defense Attorney From Out of State
When you’re from Florida, Georgia, Ohio, or anywhere outside Tennessee, choosing a Sevier County DUI attorney can feel impossible. Look for a lawyer who:
Handles DUI cases daily in Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Knoxville courts
Knows the local prosecutors and judges
Can explain exactly how Tennessee DUI laws differ from your home state
Uses video calls, phone, and email to stay in touch
An experienced Knoxville DUI lawyer or Gatlinburg DUI attorney will understand how to minimize your travel, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your driving privileges.
Step Five: Will You Need to Return to Tennessee?
In most cases, an attorney can reduce the number of trips. Many Sevier County DUI defendants can waive some of the status dates. However, you would want to do this sparingly as some of the judges may not allow you to waive if it becomes a continuing occurrence.
DUI cases in East Tennessee often last four to twelve months, giving you time to plan your return.
Step Six: Will a Tennessee DUI Affect Your Out-of-State License?
Even though Tennessee is not part of the Interstate Driver’s License Compact, your home state may still suspend your license once they learn of your conviction. Do not assume your state won’t find out. Many states access this information through national databases.
If you’re convicted, Sevier County will often take your out of state licensees and attempt to notify your home state.
Step Seven: Protect Yourself Before It’s Too Late
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Knoxville, or anywhere in East Tennessee, call a local defense lawyer immediately. Acting fast allows your attorney to:
Review bodycam footage and police reports
Challenge field sobriety test results
Identify unlawful traffic stops or breath test issues
Work with the court to limit your travel and protect your license
Talk to a Gatlinburg DUI Lawyer Today
I am D.T. Christmas and my wife, Celia Christmas, and I am own the Christmas Law Group. We represent tourists and Tennessee residents charged with DUI in Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Knoxville, and across East Tennessee. We know the local courts, judges, and prosecutors and we know how to keep one mistake from ruining your record. I have trained many law enforcement officers and defense attorneys on DUI investigations.
If you have questions about your Sevier County DUI case, call 865-378-7779.
