Criminal Defense
Chattanooga Criminal Defense Attorney
Criminal Defense in Hamilton, Bradley, Marion, Polk, & McMinn Counties
If you have been arrested or charged with a crime in Tennessee, it may feel like you’re facing an uphill battle. The state’s criminal justice system has a longstanding reputation for aggressively prosecuting even the lowest-level misdemeanor offenses. It’s understandable for anyone to feel intimidated, scared, and uncertain of their future when facing legal penalties as serious as those in Tennessee. In addition, the state’s criminal offense laws are complex and nuanced, making it difficult for people to navigate them on their own. The same goes for the state’s judicial system.
Although you may be overwhelmed at the moment, it’s important to keep in mind that being charged with a crime is not the same as a conviction. You can and should act on your right to equip yourself with legal counsel and fight the charges brought against you. Too many people suffer disproportionately severe penalties due to a lack of knowledge about their rights and options under the law. At Andrea Hayduk Law, we work hand in hand with those accused of felony and misdemeanor crimes, making sure they understand their charges, empowering them to make informed decisions about their defense, and pursuing the best possible resolution for their situation. Though the outcome will depend on the exact circumstances and facts of your case, it may still be possible to reduce your charges, dismiss them, or negotiate lighter sentences and legal punishments.
Quality legal counsel can help you make informed decisions about your defense. Call (423) 301-5050 or message us to schedule a consultation with our criminal defense lawyer in Chattanooga.
Criminal Charges in Tennessee
Contact us today by calling us at (423) 301-5050 or clicking below.
Misdemeanors
Like other states, Tennessee divides criminal charges into misdemeanors and felonies. Each of these can be further broken down into different “classes” (e.g., Class C misdemeanor, Class B misdemeanor, Class A Felony, etc.).
Misdemeanor offenses are typically less severe than felonies. Examples include petty theft and public intoxication. Tennessee punishes the most serious misdemeanors (Class A) with a maximum sentence of 11 months and 29 days. Misdemeanor offenders may also receive fines and restitution orders or be required to complete community service and treatment programs. Some offenses carry unique penalties. For example, courts may suspend the driver’s licenses of first-time DUI offenders for up to one year.
Common misdemeanor offenses include:
- Assault
- Disorderly conduct
- Domestic violence
- Driving while intoxicated (first, second, and third offenses)
- Driving without a license
- Low-level drug charges (e.g., possession of less than a half ounce of marijuana)
- Shoplifting
- Vandalism
Since 2002, Andrea Hayduk has been zealously representing her clients. As a skilled and experienced advocate, she is a highly-rated criminal defense and DUI defense attorney. Ms. Hayduk has recently expanded her practice to include all areas of civil litigation.
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