Criminal Defense

Knoxville Violent Crime & Murder Lawyer

Violent Crimes

Charged with a violent crime in Tennessee? Our experienced attorneys fight for your rights and future in and out of court.

Violent Crimes

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.

What Constitutes Violent Crimes in Tennessee?

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).

Examples of Violent Crimes in Tennessee

  • Assault
  • Aggravated Assault
  • Kidnapping
  • Robbery
  • Aggravated Robbery
  • Rape and Sexual Assault
  • Domestic Violence
  • Homicide and Murder Offenses

Potential Penalties for Violent Crime Convictions

Most violent crimes are felonies and come with severe penalties:

  • Fines
  • Probation or parole
  • Community service
  • Court-ordered treatment
  • Restitution to the victim
  • Long-term imprisonment

Collateral consequences can also follow, such as:

  • Loss of employment or difficulty finding a job
  • Challenges in obtaining housing or loans
  • Loss of voting rights (for felony convictions)
  • Loss of the right to own or use a firearm

Defenses to Violent Crime Charges in Tennessee

Depending on the circumstances, you may have strong legal defenses:

  • Self-Defense: You acted to protect yourself or someone else, using reasonable force.
  • Lack of Intent: You did not intend to cause harm, or were incapable of forming intent due to intoxication or mental incapacity.
  • Consent: In rare cases, the alleged victim may have consented to the act (e.g., during a contact sport).

Our team will evaluate every aspect of your case and work to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.

Why You Need a Violent Crimes Defense Attorney

  1. Trial Experience: Violent crime cases often go to trial. We have the courtroom experience to defend you against tough charges.
  2. Smart Negotiations: A bad plea deal can haunt you for years. We’ll fight for the best possible outcome, whether that means dismissal, reduction, or acquittal.
  3. Honest Guidance: Your life is on the line. We give you real, honest advice to help you make smart decisions.
  4. The Full Picture: We uncover every detail about the evidence, the charges, and your options, so you understand exactly what’s ahead.

We also work with skilled investigators and expert witnesses to strengthen your defense.

Contact a Knoxville Violent Crime Attorney Today

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.

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Hear what our past clients say

We encourage you to take a look at our testimonials to see the experiences of those that have placed their trust in our firm.

Connect With Us Today.

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.

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Violent Crime Defense

Accused of a Violent Crime? Build Your Defense Now

Assault, robbery, and homicide charges carry some of the harshest penalties in Tennessee. Our Knoxville trial attorneys move quickly to investigate, challenge the evidence, and fight for your freedom.

The Burks & Ogle legal team walking through downtown Knoxville.

There Are Always Two Sides to the Story

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.

Take Action Now & We Will Fight For You

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Call for a Consultation

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.

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Build a Strong Defense

We work with investigators and experts to examine forensic evidence, video footage, and witness accounts for gaps and inconsistencies.

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Fight for Your Freedom

Prosecutors know when a defense team is ready for trial. We bring that readiness to every negotiation and every courtroom appearance.

Violent Crime Charges We Defend

  • Simple and aggravated assault
  • Robbery and aggravated robbery
  • Kidnapping
  • Homicide and murder charges
  • Weapons-related violent offenses

Self-Defense in Tennessee

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.

Taking Apart the Prosecution's Evidence

Violent crime cases often rest on evidence that isn't as solid as it first appears:

  • Eyewitness accounts that are mistaken or inconsistent
  • Video that's unclear or missing key moments
  • Forensic results that were mishandled or misread
  • Statements taken in violation of your rights

The Stakes Are Higher Than Prison Time

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.

Why Trial Experience Matters

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.

What to Do After an Arrest

  • Don't discuss the incident with police, cellmates, or on the phone from jail
  • Don't post anything about the case on social media
  • Avoid all contact with the alleged victim or witnesses
  • Contact us right away so we can start protecting your rights

Being charged is not the same as being convicted. Let's start building your defense.

Hear What Our Past Clients Say

We encourage you to take a look at our testimonials to see the experiences of those that have placed their trust in our firm.

Connect With Us Today.

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.

Thank you
Your message has been submitted.
Oops! Something went wrong.