Nashville Violent Crimes Lawyer | Aggressive Defense When It Matters Most
Violent crime charges are some of the most serious offenses under Tennessee law. From assault and robbery to homicide, these allegations carry harsh penalties, including long prison sentences, heavy fines, and permanent damage to your reputation. Prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases, and judges often impose tough sentences to “send a message.”
If you’ve been charged with a violent crime in Nashville or anywhere in Middle Tennessee, you cannot afford to face the justice system alone. Attorney Erik Herbert is an experienced Nashville violent crimes lawyer who has defended clients in thousands of criminal cases. He knows how to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, expose weaknesses in their case, and fight for the best possible outcome.
What Are Violent Crimes in Tennessee?
Violent crimes generally involve force, threats, or weapons. Under Tennessee law, these are some of the most aggressively prosecuted offenses.
Common Violent Crime Charges
- Simple Assault (T.C.A. § 39-13-101): Intentionally causing bodily injury, attempting injury, or threatening harm.
- Aggravated Assault (T.C.A. § 39-13-102): Assault involving serious injury, use of a weapon, or assault against protected individuals.
- Robbery (T.C.A. § 39-13-401): Theft accomplished by force or intimidation.
- Aggravated Robbery: Robbery involving a deadly weapon or serious bodily injury.
- Domestic Assault: Assault committed against family or household members.
- Kidnapping / Aggravated Kidnapping: Unlawful confinement or movement of a person, sometimes with ransom demands or threats.
- Manslaughter: Killing without premeditation, often charged as voluntary or involuntary.
- Murder (First or Second Degree): Intentional or felony-related killings.
Penalties for Violent Crimes in Tennessee
Violent crimes are punished more severely than many other offenses.
Assault
- Simple Assault (Misdemeanor): Up to 11 months and 29 days in jail; fines up to $2,500.
- Aggravated Assault (Felony): 3 to 15 years in prison; fines up to $10,000.
Robbery
- Robbery (Felony): 3 to 15 years in prison; fines up to $10,000.
- Aggravated Robbery (Felony): 8 to 30 years in prison; fines up to $25,000.
Homicide Offenses
- Voluntary Manslaughter: 3 to 15 years in prison.
- Second-Degree Murder: 15 to 60 years in prison.
First-Degree Murder: Life in prison or the death penalty.
Collateral Consequences of a Violent Crime Conviction
The penalties extend beyond prison time and fines. A violent crime conviction can impact every part of your life:
- Employment: Employers are reluctant to hire individuals with violent crime records.
- Housing: Many landlords deny applicants with criminal histories.
- Gun Rights: Felony convictions result in permanent loss of firearm rights.
- Custody and Family Law: A violent crime record may be used against you in custody disputes.
Reputation: Violent crime convictions carry heavy social stigma.
Defense Strategies for Violent Crime Cases
Every violent crime case is different, and Erik Herbert builds defense strategies based on the unique facts of each situation.
Common Defenses Include:
- Self-Defense: Tennessee law allows reasonable force to protect yourself or others.
- Defense of Property: You may be justified in using force to protect your home or belongings.
- Mistaken Identity: Many violent crimes are charged based on unreliable eyewitness testimony.
- Lack of Intent: The prosecution must prove intent; accidents do not equal crimes.
- Constitutional Violations: If police violated your rights, evidence may be excluded.
Example: Assault in a Bar Fight
If you were involved in a bar fight in downtown Nashville and acted only to protect yourself, Erik can present self-defense evidence such as surveillance video and witness testimony.
The Court Process for Violent Crime Charges in Nashville
Step 1: Arrest and Booking
Violent crime arrests often involve immediate detention and high bail amounts.
Step 2: Arraignment
At your first court appearance in Davidson County Criminal Court, charges are formally read, and you enter a plea.
Step 3: Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions
Your attorney requests police reports, video footage, forensic reports, and witness statements. Motions may challenge evidence.
Step 4: Negotiation or Trial
Some cases may be resolved with reduced charges, while others proceed to jury trial. Erik prepares every case for trial to ensure the strongest defense.
Why Hire Erik Herbert as Your Nashville Violent Crimes Lawyer?
- Extensive Experience: Thousands of criminal defense cases handled.
- Trial-Ready Representation: Skilled in cross-examining witnesses and challenging evidence.
- Local Knowledge: Familiar with Nashville prosecutors, judges, and court procedures.
- Aggressive Strategy: Focused on minimizing penalties and protecting your future.
Client-Centered Approach: Erik listens, explains your options, and fights tirelessly for your rights.
FAQs About Violent Crimes in Tennessee
Q: Can I claim self-defense in Tennessee?
A: Yes. Tennessee recognizes self-defense when reasonable force is used to protect yourself or others from harm.
Q: Will I lose my gun rights if convicted of a violent crime?
A: Yes. Felony convictions result in permanent loss of firearm rights.
Q: What if I was falsely accused?
A: False allegations happen. Strong defense strategies can expose inconsistencies and lack of evidence.
Q: Can violent crime convictions be expunged?
A: Generally, violent felony convictions cannot be expunged. Dismissed charges, however, may be eligible.
Q: Should I talk to police if I’m accused?
A: No. Anything you say can be used against you. Always consult with an attorney before answering questions.
If you’re facing violent crime charges in Nashville or anywhere in Middle Tennessee, your freedom and future are on the line. You need an attorney who will fight aggressively to protect your rights.
Contact Nashville violent crimes lawyer Erik Herbert today for a confidential consultation.