Felony Defense

Chattanooga Felony Defense Attorneys

Defending the Best Interests of Clients Facing Felony Criminal Charges in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Any offense that lands an individual in the machine that is the United States criminal justice system must be taken very seriously. Those unfortunate individuals forced to go through the criminal process, wherein they will be asked to prove their innocence in a court of law, deserve the full attention of a skilled criminal defense lawyer well-versed in the rules and procedures at play so that they can protect their client’s constitutional rights and help them pursue a favorable outcome in their case. The need for an experienced attorney is all the more important in legal proceedings where the defendant is accused of a felony criminal offense, which is frequently associated with harsher penalties and more aggressive prosecution.

Most felony crimes result in lengthy prison sentences, costly fines, and other punishments that can have long-lasting repercussions for the defendant and everyone who depends upon them. Tennessee residents with professional licenses could potentially even lose their careers due to a felony criminal conviction. Anyone with a felony on their criminal record can also expect new difficulties seeking employment, housing, and education opportunities. Those up against felony charges require the legal support of experienced lawyers who can assist them in negotiating for a favorable plea bargain and defend their rights in a jury trial.

Our experienced criminal defense lawyers represent clients in various criminal cases, including those facing serious charges for felony offenses. We have the legal experience you require to assist you throughout the complex legal system, whether your case takes you to state or federal court. We can also assist you in criminal appeals and potentially explore options for expungement, depending on the circumstances.

Solid legal representation can make all the difference between a strong legal defense and one that flounders in the face of the prosecution. Do not leave your freedom up to chance or risk your constitutional rights in the hands of an overworked public defender. For a better chance of avoiding significant jail time, hefty fines, and other penalties, contact a trusted criminal defense lawyer at our Chattanooga law firm today.

What Are Examples of Felony Criminal Cases in Hamilton County, TN?

Our legal team has extensive experience building strong defense strategies to help defendants accused of misdemeanor or felony charges in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Whether you have been accused of sex crimes, drug offenses, or other forms of felony offenses, a legal representative from our firm will be here to assist you from the investigation, through to the preliminary hearing, and all the way to sentencing and appeals.

The felony criminal cases we represent include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Assault crimes, such as aggravated assault, can be felony offenses if they involve the use of a weapon, result in serious bodily injury, or involve choking the victim and preventing them from breathing
  • Child pornography is a serious felony offense that involves the accused possessing videos or images of underage children engaged in sexual intercourse or other sexual performance. The felony charges are more severe if the accused was involved in the production of the material
  • Domestic violence can be enhanced to a felony charge in repeat instances of domestic abuse or in cases where the victim is seriously injured
  • Drug crimes, such as drug possession, trafficking, and manufacturing, can all be considered felonies in Tennessee. It is worth noting that our state does not have legal marijuana, and that it is possible to get a felony charge for certain marijuana crimes
  • DUI or DWI incidents that result in serious bodily injury or death. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is always a serious legal matter, but the courts will aggressively pursue convictions in cases where an innocent person is hurt
  • Kidnapping offenses can be considered felonies in Tennessee, especially if a weapon was involved in the kidnapping
  • Murder and manslaughter both involve taking the life of another person. If the death of the other individual was intentional, the individual will likely be charged with murder. Manslaughter charges are usually reserved for unintentional killings that were the result of reckless or negligent actions
  • Online solicitation of a minor, including encouraging the young person to carry out acts that could constitute sex crimes, is a felony even if you never attempt to meet the minor in person
  • Rape, including statutory rape, includes instances of sexual intercourse or penetration with another person who does not consent
  • Sexual assault, also known as sexual battery, involves making violent sexual contact with another individual without their express consent
  • Some burglary crimes can result in felony charges, especially if you were caught breaking and entering to assaulting another individual
  • White collar crimes can be prosecuted as felonies in Tennessee, depending on the severity of the crimes committed

What Are the Different Felony Classes?

Tennessee felony charges are classified into different categories, ranging from Class A through E, with Class A being the most serious felony and Class E being the least severe.

Theft and certain drug offenses fall under the Class E category of felony charges. If convicted of a Class E felony in Tennessee, you could face fines of up to $3,000 and a maximum of six years in prison.

Specific marijuana drug possession charges and other drug crimes can result in a Class D felony offense. These felonies are punishable by up to 12 years of prison time and fines of up to $5,000.

Aggravated assault and crimes of theft between $10,000 but less than $60,000 result in Class C felony charges. If convicted of a Class C felony charge, you could face fines of up to $10,000 and 15 years in prison.

The second most severe felony class is the Class B felony charge. These felonies are punishable by up to 40 years in prison and financial penalties up to $25,000. Examples of Class B felony offenses include the rape of a child and particular Schedule I drug offenses. And, depending on the sex crime in question, the convicted individual will also likely be registered as a sex offender.

The most serious felony charge in Tennessee is a Class A felony. If convicted of a Class A felony in Tennessee, you could face fines of up to $50,000, life imprisonment, and even potentially the death penalty. Aggravated rape, murder, and other serious crimes are associated with Class A felonies.

What is the Pre-Trial Legal Process in a Felony Criminal Defense Case?

If you are arrested or are under investigation for a felony offense in Chattanooga, there are certain things you need to keep in mind. Firstly, you have the right to remain silent. Do not answer any questions from police officers or detectives beyond offering basic identifying information, such as your name and address. Politely exercise your right to remain silent and your right to professional legal counsel in the form of a criminal defense attorney. Prosecutors and police officers often try to either bully defendants or become their friends. Still, you need to remember that anything you say to them could be used against you in their hopes of securing a felony criminal conviction.

Once you are arrested for a crime, law enforcement will investigate the crime scene, attempt to establish probable cause, and look for reasonable grounds to prove your guilt. This will often involve gathering sufficient evidence from the crime scene and interviewing witnesses. In some cases, the police may require a warrant to perform a proper search. However, they do not need a warrant if you consent to the search on your behalf.

Within three days of your arrest is the arraignment. At arraignment, the defendant enters their guilty, not guilty, or no contest plea, and the criminal law judge determines the cost of the defendant’s bail, if applicable.

Our criminal attorneys will help develop a strong defense strategy relevant to the facts of your case in hopes of reducing your charges, securing a favorable plea deal, or dismissing the charges entirely.

Do You Need the Legal Guidance of an Experienced Chattanooga Attorney to Represent Your Criminal Defense Matters?

Facing felony charges can be a terrifying and life-altering experience. The criminal justice system is complex and known for chewing up those who are put at its mercy. Those accused of felony offenses are often overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. In such cases, we strongly recommend that the defendants seek professional legal guidance from experienced criminal defense attorneys.

As your attorneys, we will review the facts of your case to determine the potential consequences of felony convictions so that you are always aware of the dangers at play in your criminal case. Then, we will get to work.

Our criminal lawyers have an in-depth understanding of the criminal legal system and the tactics used by prosecutors and law enforcement. We will fiercely advocate for your constitutional rights and explore all legal options to help you fight back against the criminal charges that have been leveled against you.

The criminal defense attorneys of our law firm are also highly qualified in negotiation. They will explore all possibilities to help you seek the most favorable outcome in your case, whether that be a plea bargain or some other resolution.

Contact Us Today to Schedule a Confidential Consultation with Our Highly Skilled Chattanooga Criminal Defense Lawyers

Those charged with felony offenses in Tennessee must seek the professional legal services of experienced criminal defense lawyers.

The Chattanooga criminal defense attorneys of Community Law Group PLLC are highly qualified legal professionals dedicated to defending the interests of those accused of felony crimes in Hamilton County. As your legal representatives, we will protect your rights and consider all avenues to help you secure the most favorable outcome in your criminal case.

To learn more about the benefits of retaining the legal assistance of our criminal attorneys, please get in touch with our Chattanooga law office to schedule your in-depth case evaluation today. You can reach us at 423-373-7796.