Posts Tagged Criminal Defense Lawyer

Drivers Rejoice – Speed Limit Increase On I-40/I-640 in Knoxville

Motorists driving through Knoxville on I-40 and I-640 splits should be on notice that the speed limits have been modified by the Tennessee Department of Safety (TDOT).  According to a recent WVLT article, TDOT has increased the marked speed limits on I-40/I-640 splits. As Mark Nagi said, “I don’t like to make predictions, but I wouldn’t think [speed limits would be raised again] because there is so much congestion in the areas where we haven’t increased the speed limit to 70.”  Most of the changes to the speed limits will be from 55 miles per hour (m.p.h.) to 65 m.p.h.

In 2004, the speed limits were reduced to make Knoxville fall into compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards.  Since that time, Knoxville has reduced their omissions and are now in compliance.  The changes in speed limits are at the following locations:

  • I-40 from Mile Marker  367.8-385.2 (65 m.p.h. throughout);
  • I-40 from Mile Marker  385.2-390.2 (60 m.p.h. throughout);
  • I-40 from Mile Marker  395.7-409.7 (70 m.p.h. throughout);
  • I-640 from Mile Marker 0.0-3.6 (65 m.p.h. throughout);
  • I-640 from Mile Marker 3.6-10.6 (65 m.p.h. throughout).

Aside from being aware of the speed limit changes in Knoxville, drivers should also be aware that many arrests stem from a simple speeding ticket (or any traffic citation for that matter).  Many misdemeanor and felony charges arise from the simple act of driving over or under the speed limit.  Such criminal charges can include Driving Under the Influence; Misdemeanor Drug possession and Felony Drug possession along with many other potential charges.  If you find yourself being charged with a simple traffic violation or any criminal offense, you need a knowledgeable lawyer willing to answer all of your questions.  Please contact the lawyers at the Oberman & Rice Law Firm by phone at (865) 249-7200 or via email at our website if you find yourself in need of legal assistance. 

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Fourth of July Holiday and Fireworks

With the Fourth of July Holiday quickly approaching, it is important to take a step back from the lake adventures and cookouts to think of our great country and how many of our forefathers fought and persevered for our country’s Independence around 242 years ago. As with every Fourth of July Holiday, the city of Knoxville will have a celebration (rain or shine) that culminates with Fireworks (free to the public) starting around 4:00 p.m. and the Fireworks to be deployed around 9:45 p.m. Information regarding the celebration may be found here.

All of us love fireworks (except for maybe our four-legged family members). Please remember that the City of Knoxville prohibits the possession, transportation, storage, manufacture, sale, handling and discharge of fireworks without a permit from the Fire Marshall (See the Knoxville Tennessee City Code of Ordinances, Section 11-5 through 11-7). Furthermore, violation of this City Ordinance is a Misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500.00 and/or 30 days in jail for each separate offense (See the Knoxville Tennessee City Code of Ordinances, Section 1-9; General penalty- continuing violations). In other words, shooting (even simply handling) fireworks without a permit in the City of Knoxville can lead to criminal prosecution that may result in a criminal conviction on your criminal public record that may hinder your ability to obtain a job or your ability to receive a scholarship for college/higher education. Additionally, Knox County (outside the city limits of Knoxville) does not allow the shooting/possession of fireworks.

The criminal defense lawyers at Oberman & Rice are always willing to help those who have been arrest or cited for a criminal offense. Our lawyers are available 24/7 to answer questions regarding an arrest or citation for any criminal offense. Please review our website for more information or call us with questions at (865) 249-7200.

 

 

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Impact of Out of State Convictions in Tennessee

The internet and electronic record keeping has led to the end of a time when what “happened in Vegas, stayed in Vegas.”  Similarly, criminal convictions from a distant state may no longer be ignored after a person moves away from that state.  As law enforcement, court clerk’s offices, and agencies responsible for drivers licenses continue to store and share information electronically, a person’s criminal history is increasingly likely to follow him or her across state lines.

For example, a prior DUI conviction from another state may significantly increase potential penalties and the outcome of a Tennessee DUI case, just as would a prior Tennessee DUI conviction.  State and federal agencies are increasingly accurate and reliable in their effort to report crimes to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC).  By accessing the NCIC, any state or federal prosecutor may quickly review an individual’s entire criminal history, including charges that have been dismissed.

Prior charges and convictions may negatively impact pending DUI litigation.  As a result, it is imperative that anyone facing criminal charges fully disclose these charges to their Tennessee Defense Attorney, even if the prior charges have been dismissed and expunged.

Please contact our office to find out more about convictions in other states and how to address them as part of a DUI defense strategy.  You may contact our Tennessee DUI defense lawyers, Steve and Sara by calling (865) 249-7200.

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