If law enforcement officers question you while you're in custody, they are required to inform you of your “Miranda” rights: the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney and the fact that anything you say can be used against you in court. These protections,...
Criminal Defense
Signs you are under police surveillance
Police surveillance in Tennessee can happen for many reasons. Officers may be gathering evidence, watching suspected criminal activity or investigating serious offenses. Understanding what’s legal and what to look for can help you stay informed and protect your...
Why answering police questions can be risky if you’re a suspect
When you're suspected of a crime, the police may want to ask you questions. It is natural to defend yourself or explain your side. However, talking to the police can carry serious risks. Below are some key points about the dangers of speaking up and your protections...
Did police have probable cause, or was a search illegal?
In some criminal cases, a lengthy investigation results in police officers identifying a specific suspect. They go to a judge and obtain a search warrant. Once a judge has signed a search warrant, police officers can gain access to a private residence or even...
Look beyond the sentence if facing criminal charges
If you stand accused of a crime, it is important to understand the full range of consequences you could face. Especially when offered a plea deal, it can be easy to zone in on the immediate sentence and perhaps consider it a deal worth accepting. Yet the consequences...
Is a hot pursuit justification to enter private property?
The Fourth Amendment generally protects people from inappropriate searches of their property, as well as questionable seizures of their assets. Police officers can conduct searches when they have warrants or permission from individuals. They can also conduct searches...
Eyewitnesses often make critical mistakes
The justice system is set up to err on the side of allowing guilty people to go free in order to avoid false convictions. However, it’s very clear that these false convictions still happen. For instance, DNA evidence has exonerated hundreds of people who were...
What is Tennessee’s “Truth in Sentencing” law?
A number of factors are often considered when a judge is determining what kind of sentence to hand down to someone who’s found or pleads guilty to a crime. That sentence may end up being shortened if they don’t get into any further trouble while they’re in prison or...
Do police officers need to tell you the truth?
Many people end up arrested, or in a worse position than needed because they don’t understand their rights or certain basic principles of law. One misconception that often causes problems is assuming the police will tell you the truth. The reality is that police...
3 defenses for robbery charges you need to know
Getting charged with robbery can have serious consequences, including long prison sentences and significant fines. A strong defense strategy is crucial to challenging the charges and working toward the best possible outcome for these cases. If you are facing robbery...