Eldrick Tont “Tiger” Woods, born December 30, 1975, in Cypress, California, is widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers in history. With 15 major championships and a record-tying 82 PGA Tour wins, Woods redefined golf, becoming a global icon. Raised by his father, Earl, a Vietnam War veteran, and mother, Kultida, of Thai descent, Woods coined the term “Cablinasian” to describe his mixed African American, Caucasian, Native American, and Asian heritage. Turning pro in 1996 at age 20, he won the 1997 Masters by 12 strokes, becoming the youngest champion at the time. Despite injuries and personal scandals, Woods’ 2019 Masters victory cemented his comeback legacy. However, legal issues, particularly a high-profile DUI incident, have marked his career.
"Deandra Grant Law – Criminal & DWI Defense handled my case with diligence and professionalism. Deandra Grant's reputation is stellar and now I know why. She has a team of individuals who provide quality service."
- N. Coulter
"Deandra Grant Law – Criminal & DWI Defense fights hard for their clients and is always willing to go above and beyond. They are the best firm for DWI cases in DFW and beyond. Definitely hire them to represent you in any pending cases."
- P. Williams
"Deandra Grant made a tough situation so much better. She listened to my concerns and helped me so much with my case. I would recommend her to anyone needing legal services."
- M. Haley
Details of the Arrest
On May 29, 2017, at around 3 a.m., Woods was arrested in Jupiter, Florida, for suspected driving under the influence (DUI). Police found him asleep at the wheel of his 2015 Mercedes-Benz, parked awkwardly on the roadside with flat tires and minor damage to the bumpers. Officers noted Woods was disoriented, slurring words, and unaware of his location, claiming he was driving from California to Orange County despite being in Florida. Dashcam footage showed him struggling with field sobriety tests. A breathalyzer test registered 0.000 blood alcohol content, but a toxicology report revealed five substances in his system: painkillers Vicodin and Dilaudid, sleep drug Ambien, anti-anxiety drug Xanax, and THC, a marijuana component. Woods attributed the incident to an unexpected reaction to prescribed medications following his fourth back surgery in April 2017.
Details of how the criminal case proceeded
The case was filed in Palm Beach County, Florida. Initially charged with DUI, Woods’ attorney entered a not guilty plea. On August 9, 2017, a plea deal was announced, and on October 27, 2017, Woods pleaded guilty to reckless driving, a lesser charge, as part of a first-offender diversion program. Conditions included 12 months of probation, a $250 fine, 50 hours of community service (which he completed), DUI school, and a victim impact workshop. The judge warned that violating probation could result in 90 days in jail. Prosecutors dropped the DUI charge, and upon successful completion, Woods’ record would be expunged. A separate 2009 incident, where Woods crashed his SUV into a fire hydrant near his Orlando home, resulted in a careless driving citation but no criminal charges, despite speculation about domestic issues.
Managing Partner
Partner & Criminal Division Chief
Criminal Division Trial Chief
Criminal Trial Division
Criminal Trial Division
Of Counsel
Case Resolution
Woods completed the diversion program in 2018, and the reckless driving charge was expunged, avoiding a conviction. The 2009 crash led to significant personal fallout, including his divorce from Elin Nordegren and loss of sponsorships, but no legal penalties beyond a $164 fine. A 2023 lawsuit by ex-girlfriend Erica Herman alleging sexual harassment and a breached oral agreement was resolved through private arbitration, with a judge upholding a non-disclosure agreement, dismissing her $30 million claim.
Where Are They Now?
As of 2025, Woods, now 49, resides in Jupiter, Florida, and remains active in golf, though injuries limit his play. He competed in the 2024 Masters and hosts the Hero World Challenge. Woods is involved in TGL, a tech-driven golf league, and runs the TGR Foundation, focusing on youth education. He confirmed a relationship with Vanessa Trump in March 2025. Posts on X reflect mixed sentiment, with fans praising his resilience while some revisit his legal and personal scandals. Woods has expressed regret for the 2017 incident, emphasizing his commitment to recovery and professionalism.
The Woods case highlights the intersection of fame, legal accountability, and personal struggles. His ability to secure a diversion program reflects advantages often afforded to high-profile figures, raising questions about equity in the justice system. For athletes, his story underscores the risks of prescription medication misuse and the importance of legal counsel in navigating high-stakes charges. Woods’ journey from scandal to redemption remains a testament to his resilience but also a reminder of the scrutiny that accompanies stardom.
Firm Accolades
D Magazine
