A night out in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, or Nashville can turn serious if it ends with a public intoxication charge. While this offense may seem minor compared to DUI or drug-related arrests, it can still have long-term consequences for your criminal record, employment, and reputation.
At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville, we represent individuals across Middle and East Tennessee who have been charged with public intoxication and other alcohol-related offenses.
What Is Public Intoxication?
Under Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-17-310, public intoxication occurs when a person appears in a public place under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the degree that:
- The person may be endangered;
- The person’s actions endanger others; or
- The person’s behavior unreasonably annoys people nearby.
This means it is not illegal simply to be intoxicated in public—prosecutors must show that the intoxication posed a risk or disturbance.
Penalties for Public Intoxication
Public intoxication is classified as a Class C misdemeanor in Tennessee. Potential consequences include:
- Up to 30 days in jail
- Fines of up to $50
- A permanent criminal record
Although the fines are low, the long-term impact of a criminal record can be far more costly. Employers, landlords, and schools often run background checks, and a public intoxication conviction may create unnecessary barriers.
Common Scenarios in Tennessee
Public intoxication charges often arise in tourist-heavy or nightlife areas such as:
- Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge – Popular destinations where alcohol is often combined with crowded attractions.
- Sevierville and Dandridge – Small towns where public disturbances draw quick attention.
- Nashville’s Broadway – A hot spot for nightlife where citations are frequent.
Law enforcement officers have broad discretion in these cases, meaning many people are charged even when they were not acting dangerously.
Defending Against Public Intoxication Charges
An experienced defense attorney can evaluate whether your arrest met the legal standard under Tennessee law. At Champagne Law Firm, we look for defenses such as:
- Lack of evidence that you endangered yourself or others
- Mistaken identity or overreach by law enforcement
- Violation of your constitutional rights during the arrest
Our goal is to minimize the consequences—whether that means dismissal, reduced charges, or keeping your record clear.
How Champagne Law Firm Can Help
Even a misdemeanor charge deserves a strong defense. At Champagne Law Firm, we combine local knowledge of Sevier County, Middle Tennessee and East Tennessee courts with a commitment to protecting our clients’ futures. We work to resolve cases quickly and effectively so you can move forward with peace of mind.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been charged with public intoxication in Tennessee, don’t take it lightly. Legal guidance can make the difference between a conviction that follows you for years and a resolution that protects your record. Contact Champagne Law Firm today at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a confidential consultation.
