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 […]
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 […]
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 To Beat a Self-Checkout Theft Charge In Tennessee
Self-checkout theft charges are becoming increasingly common as more stores adopt this technology. These charges can arise from simple mistakes or misunderstandings, yet they carry serious legal consequences in Tennessee. Even minor oversights at the self-checkout can lead to allegations of theft, resulting in fines, criminal records, and even jail time. Â Addressing a self-checkout […]
Can Police Search Your Car Without A Warrant?
Ever find yourself wondering during a traffic stop, ‘can the police search my car without a warrant?’ You’re not alone–many Tennessee drivers aren’t sure about their rights in these situations. Let’s explore the situations where law enforcement is permitted to conduct a search without a warrant, focusing on Tennessee’s legal standards. We’ll help you understand […]
My Child Was Charged With A Crime. What Now?
Discovering that your child has been charged with a crime can be a profoundly distressing experience. Whether your child is a minor, a college student, or an adult, the shock and worry can feel the same. As a parent, your immediate concern is the well-being of your child and the implications these charges might have […]
Falsely Accused of a Crime In Tennessee? Here’s How to Fight Back
Being falsely accused of a crime is an ordeal no one should have to face. Yet, it’s an unfortunate reality for some, bringing about a whirlwind of confusion and shaking one’s faith in the criminal justice system. False accusations can shatter your peace, tarnish your reputation, and even threaten your freedom. However, with a decisive […]
5 Things To Never Say To The Police
It is important to choose your words carefully when interacting with law enforcement. Every word you say and every action you take can impact the outcome of any legal proceeding that may follow. Understanding your rights–and more importantly, what not to say to the police–can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a life-altering […]
Do Police Have To Read Miranda Rights?
In the realm of criminal law, few phrases are as recognized or as misunderstood as “Miranda rights.” Miranda rights are a cornerstone of legal protection for individuals under arrest. Yet, the prevailing belief that law enforcement must always recite these rights to potential suspects is a common misconception. The reality is far more nuanced. Miranda […]
