Criminal Defense Law

You’ve probably heard the terms “simple assault” and “aggravated assault,” but do you really understand how Tennessee law treats them differently? In short, not all assaults are created equal, and what kind of charge you face determines everything, from potential jail time to felony records. Let’s walk through the legal details, how Tennessee law defines…

You’re probably aware that search warrants are required for police to search your home, but do you really know your rights? In Tennessee, the rules around search warrants and search-and-seizure law are pretty strict. Understanding them can make a huge difference if law enforcement comes knocking, or worse, bursts through your door. Here’s what you…

You’ve probably heard about the Tennessee Castle Doctrine and “Stand Your Ground,” but do you really know how Tennessee law applies when you’re forced to defend yourself? In short, yes, you can use force to protect yourself or your loved ones, but only under specific conditions. Let’s explore Tennessee’s self-defense laws, walk through recent updates,…

Property crimes are more serious than many people realize, and Tennessee courts take them very seriously. A wide range of offenses qualify as property crimes, including trespassing, theft, embezzlement, robbery, burglary, vandalism, arson, and carjacking. All property crimes share a common element: the intentional and unauthorized taking, use, or destruction of someone else’s property. Below…

Having your property confiscated after an arrest can be a confusing and frustrating experience. So do you have any remedy when the police take your belongings? There is more than one answer to that question because there is more than one scenario you might face. The answer to this question depends on why they took…

Criminal simulation is similar to criminal forgery – but not identical. They are different criminal charges. Both crimes involve intentional deception to obtain something of value from another person. Forgery generally involves the unauthorized use of a writing such as a check, deed, or power of attorney. Simulation involves intentionally or knowingly using machines to…

Defendants can be charged with identity theft crimes by the state of Tennessee or by the federal government. Generally, identity theft in Tennessee consists of using someone’s personal identifying information to obtain such financial gain. Common examples include using the information of someone else to gain access to credit cards, bank accounts, and retirement contacts.…

Tennessee, known for its vibrant cities, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, continues to attract visitors and new residents with its low taxes, affordable cost of living, and thriving economy. However, alongside its many positive attributes, the state faces challenges related to crime in various areas. If you or a family member is facing criminal…

Anyone convicted of drag racing in Tennessee will face a harsher penalty, effective July 1, 2024. Prior to July 1, 2024, a drag racing conviction was a Class A misdemeanor. Tennessee recently increased the penalty to a Class E felony. According to News Channel 9, a Class E felony can result in up to six…

The phrase “Miranda rights” is woven into the fabric of American pop culture. However, for many, the true meaning and implications remain mysterious. This is especially true when facing a stressful encounter with law enforcement in Tennessee. Miranda v. Arizona (1966) The cornerstone of Miranda rights lies in the landmark 1966 Supreme Court case Miranda…

A criminal record can cast a long shadow over your life, hindering your ability to secure employment, housing, and even educational opportunities. Fortunately, Tennessee law offers a path toward a fresh start through expungement. What is expungement? Expungement is a legal process that allows eligible individuals to have certain criminal records sealed or erased from…

In today’s hyper-connected world, social media platforms are an integral part of our lives. We share updates, connect with friends and family, and express ourselves online. However, the ease and immediacy of social media can sometimes lead to unintended consequences, especially when it comes to the legal implications of our posts. Let’s take a look…

Being charged with a crime can be a frightening and confusing experience. The unfamiliar environment of the courtroom, the strange legal jargon, and the potential consequences can leave you feeling overwhelmed. If you’re facing a criminal trial, understanding the process can alleviate some of that anxiety and help you prepare effectively. Here, we’ll break down…

Being accused of theft in Tennessee can be a frightening and stressful experience. The severity of the charges and potential consequences depend on the value of the stolen property and the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime. Today, let’s take a deeper look at theft laws in Tennessee, including penalties and potential defense options. Tennessee classifies…

Tennessee, unlike some of its neighbors, hasn’t legalized medical or recreational marijuana, so getting busted for weed is still illegal. But that doesn’t mean all THC-based products are illegal. For example, cannabis is a plant. Cannabis sativa is a type of cannabis plant. Both weed AND hemp are Cannabis sativa, but only one of them…

It is often said that in this world there are “givers” and there are “takers.” People can be both, depending on time and circumstance, but drug addiction is only ever one thing: a taker. It is an illness that takes away jobs, it takes away stability, it takes away family, it takes away health, and…

Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are an important component of law enforcement’s toolkit in determining if a driver is operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Administered during a traffic stop, these tests are designed to assess a driver’s physical and cognitive abilities, providing officers with evidence to establish probable cause for a…

The aftermath of criminal charges can extend far beyond the courtroom, affecting a variety of aspects of an individual’s life. While the immediate focus of criminal defense often centers on legal consequences such as fines, probation, or incarceration, collateral consequences can be equally, if not more, powerful. Today we want to take a look at…

In Tennessee, the statute of limitations shapes how criminal cases are handled. The statute of limitations, often referred to as the “legal clock,” is a fundamental concept in criminal cases. It essentially sets a time limit within which criminal charges must be filed after an alleged offense occurs. The time limit is important because it…