
Charged with a Violent Crime in Tennessee? Here's What You Need to Know
Violent crime charges are among the most serious in Tennessee. A conviction can lead to long-term imprisonment, loss of rights, and permanent damage to your reputation. If you or a loved one is facing these charges, you need an experienced legal team to fight for your future.
At Burks & Ogle, we understand what's at stake. We’re here to guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and build the strongest defense possible.
Violent crimes involve the use or threat of force against another person. These offenses are taken seriously and are often classified as felonies, especially when a weapon is involved or the victim is part of a vulnerable group (such as children, the elderly, or emergency personnel).
Most violent crimes are felonies and come with severe penalties:
Collateral consequences can also follow, such as:
Depending on the circumstances, you may have strong legal defenses:
Our team will evaluate every aspect of your case and work to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
We also work with skilled investigators and expert witnesses to strengthen your defense.
If you’ve been accused of a violent crime, your first step should be calling a lawyer who knows how to defend these cases. The sooner you get help, the better your chances.
Let Burks & Ogle help you fight these charges and protect your future.
Call (865) 522-4964 or contact us online today for a Free Consultation.
We encourage you to take a look at our testimonials to see the experiences of those that have placed their trust in our firm.
Every case begins with a conversation. Tell us what you’re facing, and we’ll help you understand your options and if we’re the right fit to represent you.


When you're charged with a violent crime, the system can treat you like you're already guilty. Police reports, a single witness, or a few seconds of video can paint a picture that leaves out what really happened. Meanwhile, you could be facing a high bond, years in prison, and a record that changes your life.
Your version of events deserves to be heard, and the prosecution's case deserves to be tested. Our attorneys prepare every violent crime case as if it's headed to trial. That preparation is what gives you leverage, whether the case ends in a dismissal, a reduced charge, or a not guilty verdict.
Talk with us as soon as possible after an arrest. We'll explain the charges, address bond and release conditions, and outline your next steps.
We work with investigators and experts to examine forensic evidence, video footage, and witness accounts for gaps and inconsistencies.
Prosecutors know when a defense team is ready for trial. We bring that readiness to every negotiation and every courtroom appearance.
Tennessee law allows you to use reasonable force to protect yourself or others from harm. In many situations, the law doesn't require you to retreat if you're somewhere you have a right to be. When self-defense applies, it can be a complete defense to the charge.
Violent crime cases often rest on evidence that isn't as solid as it first appears:
A violent felony conviction can mean a long prison sentence, along with the loss of your right to own firearms, your right to vote, and many job and housing opportunities. Building a strong defense early is the best way to protect everything you have.
Many violent crime cases go to trial, and prosecutors offer better outcomes when they know the defense is prepared to win in front of a jury. Our attorneys have the courtroom experience to put the state's case to the test.
Being charged is not the same as being convicted. Let's start building your defense.
We encourage you to take a look at our testimonials to see the experiences of those that have placed their trust in our firm.
Every case begins with a conversation. Tell us what you’re facing, and we’ll help you understand your options and if we’re the right fit to represent you.