Nashville Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you are facing criminal charges in Nashville or Davidson County, you may be worried about what happens next—court dates, bond, and how a charge could affect your future. Our Nashville criminal defense attorneys represent clients charged with DUI, drug crimes, assault, domestic violence, theft, weapons offenses, and felony charges in Tennessee courts. Call (615) 475-7041 to schedule a confidential consultation.
Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys Serving Nashville, Tennessee
When you are facing criminal charges in Nashville, the attorney you choose can directly impact your freedom, reputation, and future. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys represent clients throughout Davidson County in cases ranging from misdemeanors to serious felony offenses. We understand how local courts operate and how prosecutors build cases, allowing us to develop strategic defenses grounded in Tennessee law.
From the moment you are investigated, arrested, or charged, every decision matters. We take the time to evaluate the evidence, explain your legal options clearly, and protect your constitutional rights at every stage of the process. If you need strong, focused representation in Nashville, our team is prepared to stand with you and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Criminal cases in Nashville are typically heard in Davidson County General Sessions Court or Davidson County Criminal Court, and understanding how those courts operate can make a significant difference in building a defense strategy.
Criminal Defense Practice Areas in Nashville
Criminal charges in Nashville range from misdemeanor allegations to serious felony indictments. Each category below links to a dedicated page with detailed information.
Violent Crime Defense in Nashville
Allegations involving assault, aggravated assault, robbery, kidnapping, criminal homicide, and related offenses are commonly prosecuted in Davidson County Criminal Court. These cases often involve witness statements, medical records, digital evidence, and legal questions about intent, identification, and self-defense.
DUI and Vehicular Offenses
DUI cases in Nashville involve statutory penalties and separate license consequences in many situations. Charges may include first-offense DUI, implied consent violations, vehicular assault, or vehicular homicide. These cases often turn on the legality of the traffic stop, testing procedures, and the reliability of the evidence.
Drug Crime Defense Nashville
Drug prosecutions range from simple possession to felony-level possession with intent to distribute. Many cases involve search-and-seizure issues, warrant challenges, and lab testing. Charges are often filed in General Sessions Court before potential Grand Jury review in felony matters.
Property Crime Defense Nashville
Theft, burglary, vandalism, arson, and criminal trespass cases in Nashville are classified based on the alleged loss value and surrounding circumstances. Some cases stay at the misdemeanor level; others proceed as felonies depending on the statute and the allegations.
Gun Charges Nashville
Firearm-related offenses can carry enhanced penalties under Tennessee law, including mandatory consecutive sentencing in certain situations for “firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony” allegations. Charges may also involve felon in possession or possession while under the influence.
White Collar Criminal Defense Nashville
Financial investigations often involve documents, account records, digital communications, and extended timelines. Allegations may include fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, or forgery, with classification depending on the charge and alleged loss.
Domestic Violence Nashville
Domestic violence charges in Nashville often involve allegations between spouses, family members, or individuals living in the same household. These cases may include accusations of assault, threats, or other conduct that law enforcement believes caused harm or fear of harm, and they are typically handled through the Davidson County criminal court system.
Public Order Offenses Nashville
Public order offenses Nashville generally involve conduct that law enforcement believes disrupts community safety or peace. These charges may include allegations such as disorderly conduct, public intoxication, or similar offenses under Tennessee law. Even though these charges may appear minor, they can still result in fines, court appearances, and a criminal record if not addressed properly.
Speak With a Nashville Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you have been arrested or believe charges may be filed, speaking with a criminal defense lawyer in TN as early as possible can help you understand your rights and options. The Cassell Firm represents individuals facing criminal charges in Nashville and throughout Davidson County.
Criminal Courts in Nashville and Davidson County
Criminal cases arising in Nashville are handled within Tennessee’s 20th Judicial District.
Davidson County General Sessions Criminal Court
Most misdemeanor cases begin in General Sessions Court. Preliminary hearings for felony charges are also held here.
Courthouse location: Justice A. A. Birch Building, 408 2nd Ave N, Nashville
(General Sessions administration address and mail details are published by the court.)
District Attorney General – 20th Judicial District
Criminal cases in Nashville are prosecuted by the Office of the District Attorney General for the 20th Judicial District.
The DA’s published location is 222 2nd Avenue North, Suite 500, Nashville, TN 37201 with (615) 862-5500.
Davidson County Criminal Court and the Criminal Court Clerk Address
Felony indictments are prosecuted in Davidson County Criminal Court, located in the same courthouse complex downtown. The Criminal Court Clerk’s published contact lists 408 2nd Avenue North, Suite 2120, Nashville, TN 37201 and (615) 862-5601.
What Happens After an Arrest in Nashville
After arrest by the Metro Nashville Police Department a person is booked and typically appears before a judicial commissioner for an initial bond decision.
Misdemeanor cases usually proceed in General Sessions Court. Felony cases may involve a preliminary hearing before Grand Jury review. If an indictment is returned, the case moves forward in Criminal Court for arraignment and later proceedings.
For a deeper explanation of the early stages of a criminal case, read our guide on what happens after an arrest in Nashville.
Criminal Sentencing Structure in Nashville Courts
Criminal charges filed in Nashville are classified under Tennessee law as either misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors are divided into Class A, B, or C offenses. Felonies are classified from Class A, the most serious, through Class E.
The classification assigned to a charge determines the sentencing range that a Davidson County judge may consider if a conviction occurs. In felony cases, prior convictions and offender range classification can also affect potential sentencing exposure.
The definitions of criminal offenses and the authorized penalties are established under the Tennessee criminal statutes and applied in General Sessions Court or Criminal Court in Nashville, depending on the level of the charge.
Any final sentence depends on the specific facts presented in court, the person’s criminal history, and the findings made by the presiding judge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at a first court date in Nashville?
The first court appearance is commonly an arraignment in General Sessions Court where charges are addressed and future court dates are set.
How long do criminal cases take in Davidson County?
Timing varies based on charge severity, division assignment, discovery, motions, and scheduling.
Can a felony be reduced before indictment?
In some cases, discussions occur before Grand Jury review depending on the evidence, charge posture, and prosecutorial discretion.
What if I miss a court date?
Missing court can lead to a capias warrant and added legal consequences.
The Cassell Firm News
Practical Law You Can Use
Quick reads that explain your rights, the court process, and how to prepare for a consultation. TAKE ME TO THE NEWS
How Orders of Protection Work in Tennessee Domestic Violence
An order of protection in Tennessee is a court-issued legal order designed to prevent contact, threats, or harm between individuals in situations involving domestic abuse, stalking, or related conduct. Tennessee law provides a structured process that begins with...
Understanding Tennessee Juvenile Crime Laws and Defense Options
When a minor is accused of a crime in Tennessee, the legal process does not follow the same path as adult criminal cases. The state uses a separate juvenile justice system with its own procedures, terminology, and court structure. Tennessee law provides that juvenile...
How Digital Evidence Is Used in Criminal and Family Law Cases
Digital evidence plays an increasingly important role in both criminal prosecutions and family law disputes in Tennessee. Courts may review text messages, emails, social media activity, and device data when evaluating facts presented in a case. However, digital...