TENNESSEE

General Information:

 Following conviction, all offenders receive a mandatory alcohol assessment/evaluation (if available) to determine the nature and extent of their alcohol problems. However, not all counties have facilities that can conduct such assessments.

 The assessment is conducted post-sentencing. The court does not take the results of the assessment into consideration in final sentencing.

 Assessments are conducted by the Department of Mental Health or by a private agency at the direction of the court.

 Treatment (if available) for repeat offenders is mandatory as a condition of probation for a 2nd offense. All offenders are required to attend alcohol education or treatment as recommended by the assessment.

 Offenders failing to comply with the terms of their program are not eligible for license reinstatement and may be returned to the court for further action.

 Tennessee does not have dedicated detention and treatment facilities that target the hardcore drunk driver.

BEWARE: Completing an alcohol program may not satisfy the DMV. That is just one reason why it is critical that you consult with a lawyer in your area that concentrates on DUI / DWI defense.

Drunk driving defense is a very specialized area of law; if you or someone you care about has is facing a DUI charge, it is important to speak to a lawyer who is skilled in defending drunk driving cases.