Nashville Criminal Defense Attorney

Protecting Your Rights in Middle Tennessee Criminal Cases

No matter what you have been accused of, your rights and freedom are always important. If you have been arrested and charged with a crime in Middle Tennessee, the Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby can offer the comprehensive Nashville criminal defense representation you deserve. 

We understand that you may be panicking about your future, especially when you are dealing with the uncertainty that comes with criminal charges. Our team recognizes what you are going through and can provide compassionate guidance that will both protect your interests as well as bring you peace of mind. We will walk you through how the legal process will work, what your defense options are, and what strategy we think will best serve your needs. 

No legal matter is too complex for us. Schedule a free initial consultation by calling (615) 745-3434 or contacting us online.

Understanding Tennessee Criminal Laws with a Local Attorney

Tennessee's criminal laws can often be intricate and confusing, presenting many challenges to those facing charges. From stringent DUI penalties to severe drug crime repercussions, understanding the state's legal statutes is crucial in mounting an effective defense. Tennessee enforces minimum sentences for certain crimes, meaning some convictions may result in mandatory jail time. Our team stays up-to-date on these laws to ensure that our strategy in each claim is optimized for the best possible outcome.

Aside from state statutes, Nashville's local ordinances also play a key role, particularly when it comes to offenses like public intoxication or violations of noise ordinances. These local nuances can add layers of complexity to a defense, requiring the expertise of a renowned criminal lawyer in Nashville. Our combined decades of experience help us parse through these laws to construct defenses that are both comprehensive and tailored to your unique circumstances.

Types of Criminal Charges in Tennessee

Criminal offenses in Tennessee fall into two main categories: misdemeanors and felonies. The severity of the charge depends on factors such as prior convictions, the nature of the crime, and whether the offense resulted in harm to others.

Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies but still carry significant penalties. These include:

• Class A Misdemeanors – The most serious misdemeanor category, punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and fines up to $2,500. Examples include DUI, domestic assault, and drug possession.
• Class B Misdemeanors – Punishable by up to six months in jail and fines up to $500. Common offenses include reckless driving and certain theft charges.
• Class C Misdemeanors – Carry a maximum penalty of 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $50. Examples include speeding and disorderly conduct.

Felonies are more serious offenses that result in harsher penalties, including significant prison sentences and hefty fines. Felonies in Tennessee are classified as:

• Class A Felonies – The most severe felony category, carrying a sentence of 15 to 60 years in prison and fines up to $50,000. Examples include first-degree murder and aggravated rape.
• Class B Felonies – Punishable by 8 to 30 years in prison and fines up to $25,000. Common charges include drug trafficking and aggravated robbery.
• Class C Felonies – Carry a sentence of 3 to 15 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Examples include aggravated assault and certain types of fraud.
• Class D Felonies – Punishable by 2 to 12 years in prison and fines up to $5,000. Common offenses include theft of property valued between $1,000 and $10,000.
• Class E Felonies – The least severe felony category, carrying a sentence of 1 to 6 years in prison and fines up to $3,000. Examples include theft of property valued between $500 and $1,000.

A criminal conviction carries long-term consequences beyond immediate legal penalties, affecting various aspects of life. Employment opportunities may be limited, as many employers conduct background checks and may hesitate to hire individuals with a criminal record. Housing can also become challenging, as landlords often deny rental applications based on past convictions. Additionally, certain professions require licenses that can be revoked or denied due to a criminal history, impacting careers in healthcare, law, and other regulated fields. Firearm rights may be restricted, particularly for those with felony convictions or specific misdemeanors. Non-citizens face even harsher consequences, including potential deportation, visa revocation, or inadmissibility to the U.S. 

A Nashville criminal defense lawyer evaluates the circumstances surrounding the charge and builds a strong defense tailored to the specifics of the case.

The Criminal Justice Process in Tennessee

Navigating the criminal justice system can be overwhelming. Understanding the process helps individuals know what to expect at each stage.

• Arrest and Booking – Law enforcement takes the accused into custody, records fingerprints, and collects personal information. Depending on the charge, bail may be set.
• Initial Appearance and Arraignment – The accused is formally charged and informed of their rights. At this stage, a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest is entered.
• Pretrial Motions and Hearings – Both the defense and prosecution gather evidence. The defense may file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or request a reduced bond.
• Plea Bargaining – In some cases, a negotiated plea agreement can result in reduced charges or lighter penalties.
• Trial – If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial, where the prosecution presents evidence, and the defense challenges the allegations.
• Sentencing – If convicted, the judge determines the appropriate penalties based on the nature of the crime and the defendant’s criminal history.

Alternative Sentencing and Expungement

Your Local Nashville Criminal Defense Resource

Navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system in Nashville can be overwhelming, especially when local laws and regulations come into play. Residents of Davidson County and surrounding areas often face unique challenges, from understanding the implications of local ordinances to dealing with the pressures of community scrutiny. The Law Office of Lucas B. Willoughby is here to help you through these tough times, providing tailored legal support that addresses the specific pain points faced by our Nashville community.

Local government entities, such as the Nashville Police Department and the Davidson County District Attorney's Office, play significant roles in the legal landscape. Understanding how these organizations operate can be crucial for your defense. We recognize that many individuals may feel intimidated by the legal process, especially when facing charges that could impact their employment, family life, or reputation in the community. Our team is committed to demystifying the legal system, ensuring you feel informed and empowered every step of the way.

In Nashville, issues like drug-related offenses and DUI charges are prevalent, and the consequences can be severe. We understand that a criminal charge can lead to anxiety about job security, housing, and personal relationships. Our approach as your criminal defense attorney in Nashville is to provide compassionate guidance while aggressively defending your rights. We are familiar with the local courts and the judges who preside over them, allowing us to craft a defense strategy that is informed by the nuances of Nashville's legal environment.

Don't face your legal challenges alone. Schedule a free initial consultation with a criminal defense attorney in Nashville by calling (615) 745-3434 or contacting us online.