Tennessee Criminal Defense Law Attorneys
Criminal Defense Lawyers in Nashville, TN
Facing a criminal charge is one of the most stressful experiences a person can go through. When your freedom, reputation, and future hang in the balance, you need more than a single attorney — you need a dedicated defense team working together to protect your rights at every stage of the case.
At Freeman & Fuson, our criminal defense team is led by Joey Fuson, who brings more than 20 years of criminal defense experience to every case. Joey leads the firm’s Criminal Defense Team with a hands-on, trial-focused approach, combining decades of courtroom experience with a client-centered philosophy.
We know that good people can find themselves in difficult situations, and we take the time to understand the full story behind every charge. From your first consultation, you’ll receive clear explanations, honest guidance, and a defense strategy tailored to your situation.
Criminal Defense in Tennessee: What’s at Stake
Criminal cases move quickly. Police reports, witness statements, body camera footage, forensic testing, and charging decisions are often made long before a defendant has a chance to tell their side of the story. Prosecutors rely heavily on early narratives — and without immediate legal intervention, those narratives can harden into formal charges.
Criminal convictions can result in:
Jail or prison sentences
Permanent criminal records
Loss of employment or professional licenses
Immigration consequences
Firearm restrictions
Driver’s license suspension or revocation
Civil forfeiture of cash, vehicles, or property
Early involvement by a skilled criminal defense attorney can change the trajectory of a case — sometimes dramatically.
Why Choose Freeman & Fuson for Criminal Defense?
Criminal defense is not about paperwork. It is about
strategy, credibility, and trial readiness. At Freeman & Fuson, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial — even when resolution short of trial is the goal.
Our criminal defense attorneys are known for:
- Aggressive motion practice and constitutional litigation
- Thorough investigation of police conduct and evidence
- Challenging unlawful searches, seizures, and interrogations
- Strategic negotiation with prosecutors
- Confident courtroom advocacy when trial is necessary
We do not take a one-size-fits-all approach. Every case is built around the facts, the law, and the client’s long-term interests.
Types of Criminal Cases We Handle
Our firm defends clients across all major categories of criminal law in Tennessee. Below is an overview of the primary practice areas within our criminal defense representation.
We resolve disputes for both individuals and businesses — whether it’s contract breaches, business conflicts, real estate disputes or other civil matters.
Learn MoreWe defend charges including:
- Assault
- Aggravated Assault
- Domestic Assault
- Harassment
- Stalking
- Violation of Order of Protection
- Vehicular Assault
- Vehicular Homicide
- Reckless Endangerment
- Homicide / Murder
- First Degree Murder
- Second Degree Murder
- Voluntary Manslaughter
- Criminally Negligent Homicide
- OP Violations
These cases often turn on credibility, intent, forensic evidence, and constitutional issues.
Property crimes range from misdemeanors to serious felonies depending on value, force, and location. Many property cases involve overlapping charges from a single incident.
Learn MoreWe defend:
- Theft of Property
- Theft of Services
- Burglary
- Aggravated Burglary
- Robbery
- Aggravated Robbery
- Carjacking
- Vandalism
- Criminal Trespass
- Aggravated Criminal Trespass
Property cases frequently hinge on intent, valuation, and identification — all areas ripe for defense.
Drug cases are among the most technical and aggressively prosecuted matters in Tennessee. They often involve search warrants, confidential informants, traffic stops, K-9 units, and laboratory testing.
Learn MoreWe handle:
- Drug Possession
- Marijuana Offenses
- Drug Paraphernalia
- Possession with Intent
- Drug Sale & Delivery
- Drug Manufacturing
- Drug Conspiracy
Drug charges can also trigger asset forfeiture, school zone enhancements, and mandatory minimum sentencing.
White collar cases involve allegations of deception, misuse of funds, or financial misconduct. These cases are document-heavy, complex, and often prosecuted over months or years.
Learn MoreWe defend:
- White Collar Crimes
- Embezzlement
- Forgery
- Criminal Simulation
- Identity Theft
- Credit / Debit Card Fraud
- Money Laundering
- Financial Conspiracy
- Property and Cash Seizures (DEA and Local)
Early intervention is critical in white collar cases, especially during investigations.
Weapons offenses carry serious penalties and frequently involve sentence enhancements when tied to other charges.
Learn MoreWe defend:
- Unlawful Weapon Possession
- Possession of a Firearm During a Dangerous Felony
- Felon in Possession of a Firearm
- Unlawful Possession of Handgun
Weapons charges often intersect with constitutional search and seizure issues.
Public order offenses are commonly charged but often underestimated. These cases can escalate quickly and affect future bond, sentencing, and employment.
Learn MoreWe handle:
- Disorderly Conduct
- Public Intoxication
- Criminal Impersonation
- Evading Arrest
- Resisting Arrest
- Failure to Appear
- Criminal Contempt
Many of these cases depend on officer discretion and credibility.
Traffic-related criminal charges can impact driving privileges, employment, and freedom — especially for repeat offenders or CDL holders.
Learn MoreWe defend:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
- Driving on a Suspended License
- Reckless Endangerment
- Reckless Driving
- Hit and Run
- Traffic Violations / CDL Defense
DUI and traffic cases often involve administrative hearings separate from criminal court.
Juvenile cases require a different approach — one focused on protection, rehabilitation, and future opportunity.
Learn MoreWe represent juveniles accused of:
- Delinquent Acts
- Status Offenses
- Transfer-eligible offenses
Preventing long-term damage to a child’s future is always the priority.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Tennessee
Should I talk to police if I’m under investigation?
No. You should speak with a criminal defense attorney before answering questions or consenting to searches.
Do all criminal cases go to trial?
No. Many cases resolve through dismissal, reduction, or negotiation — but trial readiness is essential.
Can charges be dismissed before court?
In some cases, yes — especially when constitutional violations exist.
What if I’ve already been charged?
It is not too late. Early action can still make a significant difference.
Protect Your Rights with a Nashville Criminal Defense Attorney
Criminal charges can define your future — unless they’re handled correctly. At Freeman & Fuson, we bring experience, preparation, and relentless advocacy to every case we defend.