A recent Supreme Court ruling could change DUI laws in Tennessee, limiting laws that currently allow for additional punishment for drivers who refuse to submit to a sobriety test. Before this ruling, drivers who refused to submit to a blood test could face additional penalties. The new ruling would now require law enforcement to have a search warrant before they require a blood test for suspected drunk driving.

Despite the changes to laws pertaining to blood tests, a search warrant will not be required for a breath test. These changes occurred after three cases challenged the implied consent laws in two different states, claiming that the current laws violated unreasonable search and seizure bans outlined in the Constitution. The recent ruling will impact laws in 11 different states.

If a person is arrested for drunk driving, it is critical that he or she understands his or her rights. A complete understanding of the entitlements granted by law can be beneficial as a person works to defend against the charges. When personal rights have been violated, those accused may challenge the case against them, seeking lesser penalties or even fighting to have the case against them dropped.

Drunk driving charges can have a serious impact on a person’s future. If convicted, penalties can affect everything from a person’s career to his or her right to drive. It is critical to confront these charges appropriately, first by seeking the help of a Tennessee lawyer experienced in DUI defense. In order to understand what defense option is best, it is wise to seek a complete case evaluation as soon as possible after an arrest.

Source: newschannel9.com, “Supreme Court ruling on DUI blood test refusal affects current Tennessee law“, June 23, 2016