Marshall County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Marshall, TN: Complete Guide

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Marshall

Being arrested for DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in Marshall County, Tennessee can be a stressful and confusing experience. This guide is designed to provide you with immediate, practical information about what to expect, critical deadlines you need to meet, and local resources available to help you navigate this challenging time. We'll walk you through the steps you need to take in the coming days to protect your rights and understand the process ahead.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

The first 24 hours after a DUI arrest are crucial. Here's a timeline of what typically happens:

• Arrest and Field Sobriety Tests: Following a traffic stop, the officer may administer field sobriety tests (FSTs) and/or a preliminary breath test (PBT). These tests are used to determine probable cause for a DUI arrest.
• Breath or Blood Test: You will likely be asked to submit to a breath or blood test to determine your blood alcohol content (BAC). Refusal to take these tests can result in additional penalties, including automatic license suspension, under Tennessee's implied consent laws.
• Transportation to Jail: If you are arrested for DUI, you will be transported to the Marshall County jail.
• Booking Process: At the jail, you will be processed, which includes fingerprinting, photographing, and recording your personal information. Your personal belongings will be inventoried and stored.
• Phone Calls: You have the right to make a reasonable number of phone calls. This is a crucial time to contact family, friends, or an attorney. It's often best to contact an attorney as soon as possible.
• Bail: Bail is a sum of money that serves as a guarantee that you will appear in court. The amount of bail is typically set according to a bail schedule, although a judge can adjust it.

Booking Process at Marshall Jail: The booking process involves recording your personal information, taking your fingerprints and photograph (mugshot), and inventorying your belongings. You will be informed of the charges against you.

When You Can Make Phone Calls: You have the right to make a reasonable number of phone calls after booking. Use this opportunity to contact loved ones or, ideally, a DUI attorney.

How Bail Works in Marshall: Bail is set to ensure your appearance in court. You can pay the full bail amount in cash, or you can use a bail bondsman. A bail bondsman will charge a non-refundable fee (typically 10-15% of the bail amount) to post bail on your behalf. We'll provide more information about bail bondsmen in the Local Resources section below. Typical bail amounts in Marshall County can vary depending on the circumstances of the arrest, but generally fall within the standard Tennessee guidelines.

Critical Deadlines

Missing deadlines in a DUI case can have serious consequences. Be aware of the following:

• ALR Hearing Deadline (15 Days): In Tennessee, you have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. This hearing is separate from your criminal case and will determine whether your driver's license will be suspended. Requesting this hearing is crucial, as it allows you to challenge the suspension and potentially keep your license.
• Court Appearance Dates: Your court appearance dates will be listed on your release paperwork. It is essential to attend all scheduled court appearances. Failure to appear can result in a warrant being issued for your arrest.
• License Suspension Timeline: If you are convicted of DUI or fail to request an ALR hearing, your license will be suspended. The length of the suspension varies depending on the number of prior offenses.

DUI Enforcement in Marshall

DUI enforcement in Marshall County is primarily conducted by the Marshall County Sheriff's Office and the Lewisburg Police Department. While specific enforcement strategies may vary, officers are trained to identify and apprehend impaired drivers through observation of driving behavior and the administration of field sobriety tests. Be aware that DUI checkpoints are legal in Tennessee but must adhere to specific guidelines.

Local Resources

Here are some local resources that can help you through this process:

• Marshall Court Information: (Information not yet available. Check back soon for updates on the Marshall County Courthouse location, contact information, and court schedules.)
• Bail Bondsmen in the Area: While we do not endorse specific bail bondsmen, you can find local listings online. Be sure to compare fees and terms before making a decision.
• DUI Attorneys: Seeking legal representation from a qualified DUI attorney is highly recommended. A lawyer can advise you of your rights, explain the legal process, and represent you in court. You can find attorneys licensed to practice in Tennessee through the Tennessee Bar Association.

What Makes Marshall Different

While Tennessee's DUI laws are consistent statewide, local procedures and practices can vary from county to county.

• Unique Local Procedures: (Information not yet available. We are researching any unique procedures specific to Marshall County.)
• County-Specific Programs: (Information not yet available. We are researching any county-specific DUI programs that may be available in Marshall County.)
• Typical Bail Amounts in this County: Bail amounts in Marshall County typically align with state guidelines, but can be influenced by the specific circumstances of your arrest, such as the severity of the offense and your prior criminal history. It's advisable to consult with legal counsel to understand the potential bail amount in your case.