Knoxville DUI Defense Lawyer
Landon from Avvo
“Saved my son’s life. Attorney Christmas and his wife Celia Christmas are a power couple. My son was looking at prison, and Attorney Christmas took my son’s case to trial and fought for his life. NOT GUILTY!”
Luanne from Google
“My family and I can’t say enough good things about DT and Celia at Christmas Law Firm. Both of them are top notch! They know what they are doing and do it in a loving, caring, friendly way. It was so easy to talk to them. They took some of the stress away from a stressful situation. We are so thankful to have found them! 10 out of 10 recommend. Thank you both for everything y’all do!”
Charged with DUI in East Tennessee? You don’t have time to wait. Attorney Christmas is a certified NHTSA instructor, DUI trial warrior, and respected East Tennessee defense attorney who knows exactly how to dismantle the State’s case—before it dismantles your life.
Download the Ultimate Tennessee DUI Guide (Free)
Understanding Tennessee DUI Charges
Under Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-10-401, it's illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any impairing substance. Key thresholds:
0.08% BAC for drivers 21+
0.04% BAC for commercial drivers
0.02% BAC for drivers under 21
What the State Must Prove to Convict You
The prosecution must prove:
You were in physical control of a motor vehicle
While under the influence of an intoxicant or drug
To the extent that your ability to drive was impaired
Defense Insight:
Being “under the influence” is subjective. A skilled DUI attorney will challenge the officer’s interpretation, the testing methods, and even the traffic stop itself.
Top DUI Defense Strategies
Illegal traffic stop (no probable cause)
Improper administration of field sobriety tests
Unreliable breathalyzer or blood test results
Violation of implied consent warnings
Medical conditions mimicking impairment
Related Charges We Defend
Refusal to submit to chemical testing (Implied Consent)
Prescription drug DUIs
Underage drinking and driving
Multiple DUI offenses
Ignition Interlock Device violations
Why Hire Christmas Law Group?
Attorney Christmas is a certified NHTSA DUI Detection and Field Sobriety Testing Instructor. He has trained officers and lawyers on DUI procedures. That means when the police make mistakes—he sees them first. His courtroom presence and aggressive strategies have helped hundreds of East Tennesseans beat or reduce DUI charges.
Offices Serving:
Knoxville, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Blount County, Oak Ridge, Anderson County, Campbell County, Scott County, Loudon County, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go to jail for a first-time DUI?
Yes. Tennessee law mandates a minimum 48-hour jail sentence for most first-time DUI offenders. But with the right defense, jail time can often be avoided or reduced.
Can I refuse a breathalyzer?
Yes—but refusing a breathalyzer can trigger a civil license suspension under Tennessee’s Implied Consent Law. However, it is not automatic—you are entitled to a hearing, and the outcome depends on the specific facts of the stop and whether the officer followed proper procedure.
Is DUI a felony in Tennessee?
DUI is a misdemeanor for the first and second offenses. A third DUI is still a misdemeanor under Tennessee law, but DUI with serious injury or involving a child passenger can be charged as felonies.
Act Fast—Contact Attorney Christmas
DUI cases move fast in East Tennessee. Don’t wait for your license to be suspended or evidence to go unchallenged. Call now for a free, confidential consultation.
Christmas Law Group | Knoxville DUI Defense
Phone: 865-378-7779
Email: dt@knox-attorney.com