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Criminal Defense Lawyers in Tennessee

Lawyer Legion Criminal Defense Information Center of Tennessee

Search Directory for Criminal Defense Lawyers in Tennessee

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Criminal Defense Lawyers by Specialty

Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Tennessee

Lawyer Legion created this list of the top picks in 2024 for the best criminal defense attorneys in Tennessee. To rank the top criminal defense attorneys and other lawyers in Tennessee, we used both objective and subjective criteria.

The top criminal defense attorneys were selected based on their career accomplishments, success in high-profile cases, professional involvement, community leadership, and board certifications.

This list represents some of the most highly accomplished criminal defense lawyers currently practicing in Tennessee. When reviewing this list, please be aware of each of the following:

  • Lawyers cannot pay to be included in this list.
  • Only lawyers who are active on Lawyer Legion were selected.
  • No online directory can accurately determine a statewide list of attorneys who are actually “the best” at practicing criminal law (but our list comes close).
Douglas A Trant
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Knoxville, TN
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J. Jeffrey Lee
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Memphis, TN
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Clayton M Whittaker
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Chattanooga, TN
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Thomas Boyers
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Gallatin, TN
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David Miller Eldridge
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Knoxville, TN
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Joseph Fuson
Criminal Defense and Marijuana Defense Lawyer
Nashville, TN
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Tawanda Williams
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Memphis, TN
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Marcos M Garza
DUI / DWI and Criminal Defense Lawyer
Knoxville, TN
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George Frank Lannom
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Lebanon, TN
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John P Cauley
Criminal Defense and Federal Crimes Lawyer
Maryville, TN
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Lee Martin
Criminal Defense and DUI / DWI Lawyer
Nashville, TN
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Michael K Walker
Criminal Defense and Family Lawyer
Nashville, TN
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More Noteworthy Tennessee Attorneys

Tennessee Criminal Defense Legal Resources

Helpful Videos

Pickford Law, PLLC

Criminal Defense Bar Associations and Legal Organizations

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) - Founded in 1958, NACDL is the largest organization for criminal defense lawyers fighting to preserve fairness within America's criminal justice system. The organization has more than 10,000 direct members including criminal defense attorneys in private practice, public defenders in state or federal court, U.S. military defense counsel, law professors and judges.
Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (TACDL) - The Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (TACDL) provides a unified and credible voice for those who defend people accused of criminal offenses. Since 1973, the TACDL has provided support for Tennessee criminal defense lawyers through different networking and training opportunities. The TACDL is an affiliate organization of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACD).

Specialty Certifications in Criminal Defense

Criminal Trial Law - The specialty area of Criminal Trial Law is offered by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) to lawyers. To earn NBTA board certification, the criminal defense attorney must show substantial involvement in at least 45 days of trial, must have served as lead counsel in jury cases through verdict; conducted direct examinations and cross-examinations, and conducted a specified number of voir dire, opening statements and closing arguments.
DUI Defense Law - The National College for DUI Defense, Inc. (NCDD) is an organization that grants specialty or board certification for DUI Defense Law. The ABA has recognized the NCDD as an organization that is accredited to award certification in this specialty area of the law. The purpose of granting board certification in DUI Defense Law is to recognize DUI and DWI lawyers who focus their practice on representing men and women accused of drunk and impaired driving offenses. In order to qualify for board certification in "DUI Defense Law," the attorney must meet specific qualifications and apply for board certification with NCDD.

Tennessee Government and Court Resources

Tennessee Attorney General & Reporter

Tennessee Attorney General & Reporter - The Tennessee Attorney General & Reporter serves as the chief legal officer for the state and is appointed by the Tennessee Supreme Court. This office is responsible for providing legal counsel to state agencies, representing Tennessee in legal matters, and overseeing law enforcement. The Attorney General plays a crucial role in prosecuting and defending legal actions on behalf of the state, issuing legal opinions, and addressing a diverse array of legal issues, including consumer protection, public safety, and environmental concerns.

Tennessee General Assembly

Tennessee General Assembly - The Tennessee General Assembly operates under a bicameral system, consisting of the Tennessee Senate and the Tennessee House of Representatives. The Senate has 33 members serving four-year terms, while the House comprises 99 members serving two-year terms. The Legislature is responsible for proposing, debating, and passing laws that govern the state. Its duties include formulating the state budget, levying taxes, and addressing various policy issues such as education, healthcare, and public safety.

Tennessee Indigent Defense program

Tennessee Indigent Defense program - The Tennessee Indigent Defense program was established to provide legal representation for individuals who cannot afford their own attorneys. It was formed to address the need for equitable access to justice within the state. The program's main responsibilities include offering defense services, legal counsel, and advocacy for those facing criminal charges or legal proceedings. The Tennessee Indigent Defense program collaborates with skilled attorneys, and ensures the protection of constitutional rights to counsel.

Tennessee State Courts

Tennessee State Courts - The Tennessee State Courts are entrusted with the vital role of administering justice within the state. Their duties include interpreting and applying the law, adjudicating civil and criminal cases, safeguarding individual rights, ensuring due process, and overseeing family law matters like divorce and child custody. The state's judiciary also addresses specific legal issues relevant to Tennessee, including matters related to its diverse communities and industries.

Tennessee Supreme Court

Tennessee Supreme Court - The Tennessee Supreme Court serves as the highest appellate court in the state, responsible for interpreting and applying the law. Its primary duty involves reviewing appeals from lower courts to ensure the correct interpretation and application of state laws and the constitution. The court hears a diverse range of cases, including civil, criminal, and constitutional matters, establishing legal precedents that guide lower courts and legal practitioners throughout Tennessee. Additionally, the Tennessee Supreme Court oversees the regulation of attorneys, managing attorney admissions, setting ethical standards, and ensuring the professionalism and ethical conduct of lawyers statewide.

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