Byron Pugh Legal has released a comprehensive educational guide to help Tennessee drivers understand significant DUI law changes that took effect January 1, 2026. The guide addresses increased penalties for test refusal, new oral fluid testing procedures, and expanded enforcement measures affecting drivers throughout Franklin and Middle Tennessee.
The Tennessee legislature implemented major revisions to DUI enforcement laws at the start of 2026, marking the most substantial changes to implied consent and testing procedures in recent years. License suspension periods for chemical test refusal have increased from 12 months to 18 months, representing a 50 percent penalty increase. Additionally, oral fluid and saliva tests are now admissible as evidence in Tennessee courts, and the law clarifies that refusing a test remains a violation even when blood is later obtained through a warrant.
These changes come as Tennessee Bureau of Investigation data reveals that 419 Tennessee drivers were wrongfully arrested for DUI in 2024 despite testing negative for alcohol and drugs. The Tennessee Highway Patrol alone made 180 wrongful DUI arrests during that period. Franklin Police Department has announced increased DUI enforcement efforts for 2026, making understanding these new laws particularly important for local drivers.
"The new DUI laws fundamentally change how drivers interact with law enforcement during traffic stops and significantly increase the consequences of test refusal," said Byron L. Pugh, Criminal Defense Attorney at Byron Pugh Legal. "With the license suspension period jumping to 18 months and oral fluid testing now admissible in court, drivers need to understand their rights and the potential ramifications of these changes. Having prosecuted DUI cases as a former Assistant District Attorney and now defending clients against these charges, I've seen how critical proper legal representation is when navigating these complex new standards."
The educational guide explains driver rights under the new testing procedures, the difference between implied consent violations and DUI convictions, and strategies for protecting driving privileges. The guide also addresses how oral fluid testing introduces new evidentiary standards that affect both prosecution and defense strategies in DUI cases.
Byron Pugh Franklin criminal defense lawyer services have expanded to include comprehensive guidance on these new laws, helping clients understand the enhanced penalties and testing procedures. The firm's experience with both prosecution and defense provides unique insight into how these changes affect DUI cases throughout Williamson County and surrounding areas.
The increased enforcement measures and enhanced penalties make experienced legal representation essential for anyone facing DUI charges under the new laws. Understanding the distinction between implied consent violations and actual DUI convictions has become increasingly important for protecting driver rights and minimizing long-term consequences.
Byron Pugh Legal represents individuals charged with crimes throughout Middle Tennessee including Franklin, Nashville, and surrounding counties. The firm handles criminal defense cases including DUI, domestic assault, drug crimes, and violent crimes. Byron Pugh is a former Assistant District Attorney who now provides criminal defense representation. Founded in 2013 when Byron Pugh was admitted to the Tennessee Bar, the firm serves clients in Williamson County, Davidson County, Rutherford County, and Sumner County. As a Franklin criminal defense lawyer, Byron Pugh brings prosecutorial experience from handling DUIs, assaults, thefts, and drug cases in General Sessions Court and major felonies in Criminal Court.
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For more information about Byron Pugh Legal, contact the company here:
Byron Pugh Legal
Byron Pugh
615-590-3117
byron@byronpughlegal.com
214 2nd Ave N #100
Nashville, TN 37201
