Best Assault Lawyer Near Me
Facing assault charges in Lebanon or anywhere in middle Tennessee can be one of the most frightening experiences of your life. The sudden reality of an arrest, public embarrassment, and uncertainty about what comes next can leave you feeling anxious and alone. Whether the accusation stems from a misunderstanding, an argument that escalated, or a false report, the consequences can be devastating — impacting your job, reputation, and personal relationships.
Under Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-13-101, an assault charge covers both physical harm and any intentional threat that causes another person to fear harm. This broad definition means even a heated confrontation can lead to criminal prosecution.
A conviction can result in jail time, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record that follows you for years. When your future is at stake, you need guidance from professionals who know the local courts and how to protect your rights effectively.
At Lannom & Williams, our assault lawyers have built a strong reputation throughout Lebanon and middle Tennessee for their experience, courtroom skill, and personalized approach. Our firm has successfully represented clients, defending those accused of assault with care and precision.
We understand how stressful this time can be and are ready to stand beside you at every step. Contact our assault lawyers in Lebanon today to schedule a confidential consultation and begin building a defense that protects your freedom and your future.
Understanding Assault Under Tennessee Law
Simple Assault – Definition and Penalties
Under Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-13-101, a simple assault occurs when someone:
- Causes bodily injury to another person
- Makes credible threats of harm
- Engages in offensive physical contact
These cases often arise from sudden disputes, misunderstandings, or emotional situations that escalate quickly. Even without serious injury, the law treats these offenses seriously, as they involve a violation of another person’s sense of safety.
Simple assault is generally charged as a Class A or Class B misdemeanor in Tennessee. A conviction can lead to:
- Up to 11 months and 29 days in jail
- Fines and probation
- Long-term effects on employment, housing, and professional licensing
That is why it is essential to seek help from lawyers for assault charges who understand how to protect your rights.
Aggravated Assault – Definition and Consequences
Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-13-102 defines aggravated assault as an offense involving:
- The use of a deadly weapon
- Serious bodily injury to another
- Reckless conduct showing disregard for human life
These cases carry far more severe consequences because of the potential harm or weapon involvement.
Aggravated assault is charged as a Class C or Class D felony, with penalties ranging from:
- Three to fifteen years in prison
- Permanent criminal record and loss of rights
- Major impacts on your reputation and future opportunities
Skilled aggravated assault lawyers can:
- Investigate evidence and forensic reports
- Question unreliable witnesses
- Negotiate reduced charges or seek dismissals
At Lannom & Williams, our lawyers of aggravated assault in middle Tennessee approach every case with precision and commitment to securing the best possible outcome for each client.
Types of Assault Cases We Handle
Simple Assault
Simple assault is one of the most common criminal charges in Tennessee. It often arises from everyday conflicts such as:
- Heated arguments
- Emotional disputes
- Minor fights that get out of control
Even when no one is seriously hurt, police may still make an arrest if someone claims to feel threatened or intimidated.
Under Tennessee law, these cases are typically classified as misdemeanors, but the impact can still be serious. A conviction can lead to:
- Jail time or probation
- Fines and court costs
- A permanent criminal record
Our assault lawyers understand that many of these incidents stem from misunderstandings or emotional reactions, not criminal intent.
At Lannom & Williams, we use proven strategies such as:
- Demonstrating self-defense
- Showing a lack of intent
- Highlighting the absence of credible evidence
We aim to protect your reputation, freedom, and future through careful preparation and personalized defense.
Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault involves more serious circumstances, such as:
- The use of a deadly weapon
- Causing significant bodily injury
- Physical altercations that escalate into felony accusations when a weapon is involved or medical treatment is required
These cases are treated as felonies under Tennessee law, carrying the possibility of years in prison and steep fines. Even an argument that turns physical can quickly result in felony charges under these conditions.
Our aggravated assault lawyers carefully review:
- Police reports and witness statements
- Forensic evidence and injury documentation
- The prosecution’s claims and assumptions
Common defense strategies include:
- Disproving weapon use
- Disputing the severity of the injury
- Showing a lack of intent to cause harm
Lannom & Williams has extensive trial experience in middle Tennessee courts. Our lawyers for assault charges know how to navigate local procedures, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect clients against harsh penalties. Every case is handled with diligence, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
Domestic Assault
Domestic assault cases involve accusations between family members, romantic partners, or people sharing a household. Tennessee law treats these charges differently because they often carry additional restrictions, such as:
- No-contact orders
- Firearm prohibitions
- Probation terms or counseling requirements
The emotional nature of these disputes can lead to exaggerated claims or false reports that damage reputations immediately.
Our firm approaches every domestic assault case with sensitivity and focus. We know how to:
- Challenge inconsistent statements
- Highlight the absence of physical evidence
- Demonstrate self-defense when applicable
These defenses can make a major difference in protecting both your record and your relationships.
Lannom & Williams has a long history of handling domestic violence and family-related assault cases across Wilson and Rutherford Counties. Our experienced team works discreetly to restore stability and protect what matters most — your freedom and your future.
Assault on a Police Officer or Public Employee
Assault involving a police officer, firefighter, or emergency responder carries enhanced penalties in Tennessee. Even:
- Minor physical contact, or
- A perceived threat against these individuals
can result in a felony-level charge. These cases require careful handling because emotions often run high during arrests or emergency situations.
Defense strategies often focus on:
- Disproving intent to harm
- Showing a lack of awareness or mistaken identity
- Challenging an officer’s excessive use of force
Our firm understands the importance of objective evidence, such as video recordings or witness statements, in these complex cases.
With deep knowledge of local law enforcement procedures, our team at Lannom & Williams provides a balanced, informed defense. We ensure that clients’ constitutional rights are respected while presenting a fair and factual account of events in court.
Assault with a Deadly Weapon
Assault with a deadly weapon is a serious felony that can result from using or displaying:
- A firearm
- A knife
- Any dangerous object capable of causing harm
Even when no injury occurs, the mere display of a weapon can elevate a misdemeanor to a felony under Tennessee law. These cases may involve mandatory minimum sentences, making early legal help critical.
Our assault attorneys focus on:
- Proving there was no intent to use the weapon
- Demonstrating legitimate self-defense
- Exposing inconsistencies in the prosecution’s narrative
By examining forensics, ballistics, and eyewitness accounts, we identify errors that can change the outcome of your case.
At Lannom & Williams, our attorneys collaborate with expert witnesses to build a clear, fact-based defense. We protect your rights from the start, ensuring that every piece of evidence is examined with precision and care.
Reckless Endangerment and Threat-Based Assault
Not all assault charges involve physical contact. Tennessee law also covers reckless endangerment and threat-based assaults where victims claim fear of harm. Examples include:
- Brandishing a weapon
- Making verbal threats
- Driving dangerously close to another person
These situations focus on perception — whether the victim reasonably believed they were in danger.
Such cases often rely heavily on testimony rather than physical proof. Defense strategies may include:
- Showing a lack of intent
- Demonstrating exaggeration or misinterpretation of events
- Challenging the credibility of the accuser
Our experienced assault attorneys understand how to question testimony and present your side clearly.
Lannom & Williams takes a thorough and respectful approach to these cases. By combining local insight with effective courtroom advocacy, our firm helps clients resolve allegations that could otherwise lead to damaging consequences.
Juvenile Assault Cases
Young people can face assault charges for:
- Fights at school
- Social conflicts
- Emotional reactions that escalate unexpectedly
Tennessee’s juvenile courts focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, but serious offenses can still be transferred to adult court. A conviction in adult court may result in:
- Harsher sentencing
- A permanent criminal record
- Long-term effects on education and employment
Our attorneys at Lannom & Williams work to keep cases in juvenile court whenever possible. We advocate for:
- Counseling and education programs
- Community service alternatives
- Family-based interventions instead of incarceration
Protecting the child’s record and emotional well-being is always our top priority.
By working with families, school officials, and court representatives, we ensure that one mistake does not define a young person’s future. Every juvenile client receives compassionate, focused defense tailored to their individual situation.
Repeat Offenses and Enhanced Penalties
Repeat assault offenses can lead to:
- Harsher sentencing and longer probation
- Felony escalation for subsequent convictions
- Habitual offender designations that restrict freedom and future opportunities
Tennessee law allows for increased penalties when prior convictions exist, making each new charge even more serious.
Our experienced assault lawyers in Lebanon know how to:
- Challenge repeat-offense allegations
- Negotiate favorable outcomes with prosecutors
- Develop defense strategies that minimize long-term impact
Early intervention is key to reducing the consequences of multiple charges.
At Lannom & Williams, we combine trial experience with local insight to build a strong defense. Our goal is always to protect clients’ rights, reduce penalties, and guide them toward a better path forward in middle Tennessee.
Penalties and Long-Term Consequences of an Assault Conviction
An assault conviction in Tennessee carries serious criminal and personal consequences. Depending on the severity of the charge, penalties may include:
- Jail or prison time
- Fines and court costs
- Probation or restitution
- Mandatory community service
Even a misdemeanor conviction can have a lasting impact, limiting your opportunities long after the case ends.
In more serious cases, such as felony-level assault, sentences can last several years. Beyond incarceration, defendants may also face:
- Court-ordered counseling or anger management
- Strict supervision or reporting requirements
- Substantial financial and emotional strain on both individuals and families
The effects of a conviction often extend beyond the courtroom. Many people struggle with:
- Employment challenges due to background checks
- Difficulty securing housing or loans
- Firearm ownership restrictions in domestic assault cases
- Loss of professional licensing or community standing
Our assault attorneys in Lebanon understand how overwhelming these consequences can be. In many situations, first-time offenders may qualify for alternative sentencing or diversion programs, which allow charges to be dismissed after meeting specific conditions.
Working with experienced lawyers for assault charges early in the process can help protect your record and your freedom. At Lannom & Williams, we focus on proactive defense strategies designed to minimize penalties and safeguard your future.
Common Legal Defenses in Assault Cases
Every assault case is unique, and the right defense depends on the facts and available evidence. Tennessee law recognizes several valid defenses that can protect the accused when properly presented in court.
Under Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-11-611, self-defense or defense of others may justify the use of reasonable force to prevent harm. This defense applies when:
- A person genuinely believes they are in immediate danger
- The response is proportionate to the perceived threat
- The intent is to prevent harm, not to retaliate.
Another common defense involves lack of intent or accidental contact. In many cases:
- A misunderstanding or unintended action is misinterpreted as an assault
- False allegations or mistaken identity occur, especially in emotionally charged disputes
- Witnesses may provide conflicting or unreliable accounts, leading to wrongful accusations
Constitutional violations may also provide strong grounds for defense. For example:
- Unlawful arrests or searches can render evidence inadmissible
- Failure to read Miranda rights may lead to the exclusion of statements
- Procedural errors can weaken the prosecution’s case significantly
At Lannom & Williams, our assault attorneys carefully review every detail of each case, from body camera footage to witness statements. By analyzing every piece of evidence, our aggravated assault attorneys build a personalized strategy aimed at protecting your rights and your future.
How an Experienced Assault Lawyer Can Help
When you face assault charges, having an experienced attorney can make all the difference in protecting your future. A skilled legal team knows how to:
- Investigate every angle of the case
- Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence
- Fight for the best possible outcome through tailored defense strategies
At Lannom & Williams, our assault lawyers begin by examining:
- Police body camera footage
- Medical reports and injury documentation
- Witness statements for inconsistencies or bias
Each piece of evidence is analyzed carefully to build a defense that fits your unique situation.
Negotiation plays a major role in resolving assault cases effectively. Our attorneys work directly with prosecutors to:
- Pursue reduced charges or lighter sentencing
- Seek diversion or dismissal where possible
- Use our local court knowledge in Lebanon, Mt. Juliet, and throughout middle Tennessee to strengthen credibility and outcomes
If your case proceeds to trial, our team provides strong, strategic courtroom representation. We:
- Challenge questionable or improperly obtained evidence
- Cross-examine witnesses to reveal inconsistencies
- Present compelling legal arguments on your behalf
Beyond trial, we also assist clients with post-conviction relief, including:
- Appeals to correct judicial errors
- Expungement opportunities to help rebuild records and restore reputations
With more than 30 years of criminal defense experience, attorney Frank Lannom has earned respect across Tennessee courts. As the 2022 President of the Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (TACDL), he exemplifies leadership and integrity in defense advocacy. Working with our lawyers of aggravated assault ensures that you receive trusted, proven representation focused on your rights and recovery.
Why Choose Lannom & Williams for Assault Defense in middle Tennessee
Choosing the right attorney is one of the most important decisions you will make after an assault charge. With more than 30 years of criminal defense experience, Lannom & Williams has built a reputation for excellence across Lebanon and surrounding communities.
Our firm represents clients in:
- Federal, State, and County courts throughout middle Tennessee
- Counties including Wilson, Rutherford, Davidson, Williamson, Smith, and Sumner
Our office provides accessible, responsive service to every client. Our assault attorneys understand how stressful legal proceedings can be and remain committed to guiding you with honesty, skill, and compassion. Each case is handled with the care and persistence necessary to achieve the strongest possible result.
At Lannom & Williams, our philosophy is simple — protect individual rights with integrity and dedication. We know that every client deserves:
- Personal attention
- A clear defense strategy
- Aggressive courtroom representation
Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges, our assault attorneys in Lebanon will stand firmly by your side.
Our record of success and deep local experience make us a trusted choice for assault defense across middle Tennessee. Contact our Lebanon office today to speak with an assault lawyer serving clients throughout the region and begin protecting your future immediately.
Take Immediate Action to Protect Your Rights
Time is critical after an arrest or accusation. Acting quickly can prevent long-term damage to your record, reputation, and future. Early legal intervention allows your attorney to gather evidence, protect your rights, and address the case before it escalates.
At Lannom & Williams, our assault lawyers provide immediate, responsive support and skilled courtroom defense. We understand how stressful this time can be and work tirelessly to guide you through each step with clarity and care. Every decision made early can greatly influence your outcome.
If you’ve been charged with assault in Lebanon or anywhere in middle Tennessee, contact Lannom & Williams or call us at (615) 444-2900 to consult with an experienced assault lawyer in Lebanon, TN.
