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KNOXVILLE CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
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Robert R. Kurtz, Attorney at Law Robert R. Kurtz, Attorney at Law
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Robert R. Kurtz, Attorney at Law DUI

DUI Defense Lawyer in Knoxville, TN

More Than 25 Years of Criminal-Law Experience for Your DUI Defense

Tennessee DUI charges can involve alcohol, marijuana, controlled substances, prescription drugs, or other intoxicants under Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-10-401. If you’ve been arrested for driving while intoxicated, I can review both the criminal charge and related driver-license consequences. At Robert R. Kurtz, Attorney at Law, I represent people facing DUI charges in Knoxville and throughout Knox County. I’m prepared to examine every aspect of your case, from the initial stop through the prosecution’s evidence.

Why Choose Me for Your DUI Defense?

With more than 25 years of criminal-law experience and a practice built around investigation, preparation, and direct client commitment, I approach DUI cases as serious legal problems that deserve thorough attention. I’ve been recognized as a Top Attorney for Criminal Law by CityView Magazine through a peer-recognition poll, and I provide representation both in and out of court. I’ve achieved positive verdicts and review potential defenses rather than pushing for a quick resolution.

DUI charges can affect your driving privileges, employment, and future. I understand what you’re facing, and my role is to work to protect your rights at every stage of the process.

Contact me at (865) 896-9779 to discuss your arrest with a Knoxville DUI lawyer in a free consultation.

Strategic Defense Against Severe DUI Penalties

Whether it’s your first offense or a later allegation, DUI penalties in Tennessee are offense-specific and can affect your freedom, finances, and driving privileges. The consequences below vary based on your charge history and circumstances.

Depending on the offense, history, and circumstances, a DUI conviction can result in:

  • Jail time ranging from 48 hours to several years depending on the offense
  • Fines ranging from $350 to $15,000 depending on the offense
  • License suspension, with the applicable period determined by offense history
  • Ignition interlock device requirements depending on the offense, history, and circumstances

A DUI charge isn’t the same as a conviction. I examine the evidence for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Chemical tests and blood alcohol concentration results are a significant part of DUI prosecutions, but law enforcement can make mistakes.

Possible errors include:

  • A violation of rights during the initial police stop
  • Incorrect administration of field sobriety tests
  • Errors in the arrest process
  • Incorrect calibration, a history of false readings, or improper maintenance of the breath testing unit
  • Alcohol testing administered too late under applicable Tennessee law

A reported BAC above the legal limit doesn’t make a conviction automatic. The prosecution must still prove its case in Knox County Criminal Court.

Understanding Tennessee Implied-Consent Law After a DUI Arrest

Under Tennessee’s implied-consent law, if you are lawfully arrested by a police officer who has probable cause to believe you were driving under the influence, you can face an implied-consent violation if you refuse to submit to chemical testing. A refusal can create driver-license consequences that are separate from the criminal DUI charge itself, and the applicable suspension period depends on your circumstances and prior qualifying history. Chemical testing may involve breath, blood, or urine. The officer selects which type of test is administered, and testing must occur as soon as possible after the stop because the relevant question is your BAC at the time of driving.

I review whether the required advisement was given and how any omission may affect an alleged implied-consent violation. I also examine the investigation and arrest for flaws in the prosecution’s evidence, including testing procedures and documentation.

Act Now to Protect Your Freedom from DUI Charges

After a DUI arrest, deadlines and evidence-preservation concerns can arise quickly. Early legal review can help identify license-related deadlines, court obligations, and the need to obtain testing records or equipment maintenance histories. I believe that clients make better decisions when they understand the law, the facts of their case, and how the two interact. I can explain your situation clearly and discuss the available options based on your circumstances.

When you contact my firm, I can schedule a free consultation with you. Don’t wait to get the information you need to protect your future.

Suggested Reading:

I personally review the stop, arrest, testing, and prosecution evidence before advising you on available defenses.

Contact me at (865) 896-9779 for a free consultation with a Knoxville DUI attorney.

Robert R. Kurtz, Attorney at Law

What Our Clients Are Saying

  • Avvo Superb Rating
  • Lead Counsel Rated
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
    "From consultation to "case dismissed""
    From consultation to "case dismissed", Mr Kurtz was the epitome of professionalism and respect. Thank you.
    - Scott P.
    "Awesome attorney who goes above and beyond."
    He was always willing to take a call when we had any questions or concerns and he was always very professional and knowledgeable about our case and kept us updated.
    - Donna K.
    "If you need a defense lawyer, Robert Kurtz is your guy!"
    He listened to our legal issues without judgment and offered me hope without 'fluff'. He is straightforward and very knowledgeable. When I had questions he responded quickly. Not only did I like the way he ran his business, but we also got great results!
    - Brandi R.
    "Best lawyer hands down"
    Very sweet and professional and I highly recommend him. His secretary is super kind as well. Good results. And amazing representation.
    - M.E.
    "This is the man you want to go to."
    Just recently had the pleasure of having Mr. Kurtz work on my rather tricky case. It was resolved with minimum issues or setbacks to my personal life and I could not be more grateful for this gentleman.
    - Seth J.
    "Robert Kurtz is very dedicated."
    I am grateful for his dedication, determination, and perseverance. I always felt that he was accessible and never judgemental or dismissive.
    - Maripat R.
    "Extremely professional"
    Would recommend him to anyone having legal issues in Knoxville
    - Shane C.
    "I recommend Robert Kurtz without reservation"
    He handled my legal matter quickly, professionally, and to a totally successful conclusion. Additionally, he demonstrated superb listening skills, answering each of my questions directly, and with exacting attention to the details of my case.
    - Mike F.