Can Police Search Your Car Based on Smell Alone? What Tennessee’s 2024 Ruling Means for You
In a recent decision, the Tennessee Supreme Court addressed a key issue for criminal defense: can police rely on the plain smell of marijuana to justify a vehicle search when a police officer and/or canine dog cannot distinguish between legal hemp and illegal marijuana? In State of Tennessee v. Andre JuJuan Lee Green, the Court […]
Assault on an Officer: New 2024 Penalties In Tennessee
In recent years, the safety of law enforcement officers has become a growing concern across the United States, with Tennessee being no exception. High-profile incidents involving ambush-style attacks on officers have raised alarms, prompting a legislative response aimed at better protecting those who serve and protect our communities. Enter Tennessee’s new “Back The Blue Act“—a […]
Five Criminal Defense Myths Busted
If you’re facing criminal charges, misinformation can be your worst enemy. People might believe they understand how the justice system works based on TV shows, YouTube videos, or secondhand stories. Unfortunately, these sources often paint an inaccurate picture of the situation at hand. In this blog, we’ll debunk five common myths about criminal defense and […]
First Time Domestic Assault Charge in Tennessee: New 2024 Law Requires GPS Monitoring
Domestic assault charges in Tennessee aren’t one-size-fits-all. These cases often involve complex personal relationships and can arise from equally complicated circumstances. You might face charges after an incident in your Knoxville home or during a weekend getaway in Gatlinburg. If you’re a first-time offender, you’re likely feeling unsure about what comes next. Will this charge […]
5 Common Mistakes Police Officers Make During Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are used by law enforcement to assess a driver’s potential impairment due to alcohol or drugs. These tests, including the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus, Walk and Turn, and One-Leg Stand, evaluate coordination, balance, and attention. However, errors in test administration can significantly impact the validity of results, potentially leading to unjust DUI […]
How a DUI Conviction Affects Professional Jobs In Tennessee
A DUI conviction is more than just a legal headache—it’s a potential career catastrophe. For professionals in Tennessee, the consequences extend far beyond fines and possible jail time. Your security clearance, your position at high-security facilities like Y-12 or ORNL, or even your medical license could be at stake. In this blog, we’ll explore the […]
Can You Get A DUI For Having An Open Container In Tennessee?
Are you at risk of a DUI charge if caught with an open container of alcohol in your vehicle in Tennessee? Whether you’re a driver or a passenger, knowing what constitutes an open container violation and the associated penalties can help you avoid unexpected legal trouble. In this blog, we’ll dive into the specifics of […]
Can Police Pull You Over For No Reason?
Imagine driving home after a long day at work, eagerly anticipating the comfort of your own home. Suddenly, you see flashing blue lights in your rearview mirror. As you pull over, a flood of questions fills your head: did I miss a traffic sign? Is one of my lights out? Am I being pulled over […]
How Tennessee’s New DUI Law Could Affect You
Tennessee has recently enacted a significant change to its DUI laws, lowering the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) threshold for enhanced penalties from 0.20% to 0.15%. This adjustment means that first-time DUI offenders with a BAC of 0.15% or higher now face a mandatory minimum jail sentence of seven (7) consecutive days. Drivers in Tennessee need […]
Blood Tests in Tennessee DUI Cases: What You Need to Know
Being stopped for a suspected DUI is a nerve-wracking experience. The flashing lights, the officer’s questions, and the uncertainty of what comes next can leave you feeling overwhelmed. The decisions you make in those tense moments can have lasting repercussions, particularly regarding your rights and how to respond to the officer’s requests. One of the […]
