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About Mark Scruggs, Trial Attorney

Over 40 Years. Countless Cases.

One-on-One Representation.

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About Attorney Mark Scruggs

When experience matters, trust a lawyer who’s been in the courtroom for over four decades. Attorney Mark Scruggs has built his reputation on preparation, precision, and results—earning respect from clients, colleagues, and the courts alike.


From criminal defense to civil litigation, he brings the same level of commitment to every case. Explore his background below to learn what sets his practice apart.



  • A Legal Career Rooted in Public Service

    Mark Scruggs began practicing law in 1982, after earning his Juris Doctor from the University of Tennessee College of Law.

    He served as an Assistant City Attorney for Knoxville and Nashville from 1982 to 1988, focusing on litigation.

    In this role, he represented police departments in civil rights cases and appeared before various municipal boards.

  • Foundation in Criminal Defense

    In 1988, Mark joined respected Nashville defense attorneys Lionel Barrett and Richard McGee, working almost exclusively on criminal defense trials.

    This experience laid the groundwork for his transition into solo practice and long-term litigation work.

  • Over Three Decades of Solo Practice

    Since 1991, Mark has practiced as a solo attorney, collaborating with top trial lawyers while managing each case personally.


    Mark has focused primarily on criminal defense, handling hundreds of cases ranging from misdemeanors to capital murder. He has also handled various civil matters. 


    His results came through settlements, dismissals, and trial wins—always grounded in preparation and courtroom skill. You can emphasize this text with bullets, italics or bold, and add links.

  • Recognized Excellence

    Mark holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell since 2003—the highest peer-reviewed distinction for legal ability and ethics.


    In 2008, he became a Certified Criminal Defense Specialist, recognized by both the National Board of Trial Advocacy and the Tennessee Commission on Legal Specialization.

  • Expanding Into Civil & Business Litigation

    While criminal defense remains central to his practice, Mark expanded into complex civil and business litigation in 2019.

    Notable cases include:


    - Successfully representing fraud victims in a dispute with a Tennessee bank and national law firm (2020)


    - Appealing and dismissing criminal charges tied to real estate and construction projects


    - Representing contractors in Tennessee Consumer Protection Act cases


    - Ongoing litigation counsel for a major Nashville car dealership and its financial entities

  • Trial Success Built on Hard Work & Experience

    Mark credits his success to two key values: hard work and courtroom experience.

    With 43+ years of litigation practice, he approaches each case with meticulous preparation, sharp analysis, and a relentless drive to win.

  • A Relationship Built on Trust

    Mark views every attorney-client relationship as a true partnership.


    You work directly with him—no case handoffs, no unnecessary delays.


    He fosters open communication and clear strategy, ensuring clients are informed and involved from start to finish.

No matter the challenge, Mark Scruggs is committed to delivering clear, experienced legal guidance—without the runaround. When you’re ready to talk, he’s ready to listen.


Call 615‑419‑6154 or contact today to schedule your consultation and speak directly with your attorney.

Education and Legal Career Highlights

  • Education

    • J.D., University of Tennessee College of Law (1982)
    • B.A., University of Tennessee, Knoxville (1979, with honors)

  • Court Admissions

    • Tennessee State Courts (admitted 1982)
    • U.S. District Court – Middle District of Tennessee (admitted 1984)
    • U.S. District Court – Eastern District of Tennessee (admitted 1984)
    • U.S. Court of Appeals – Sixth Circuit (admitted 1984)
    • United States Supreme Court – also admitted to practice before the highest court in the nation

  • Professional Credentials

    • Board-Certified Criminal Trial Specialist, National Board of Trial Advocacy
    • Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL)
    • Member, Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (TACDL)

  • Speaking & Writing

    • Continuing legal education (CLE) speaker and panelist on trial strategy

  • Recognition & Awards

    • Certified Criminal Defense Specialist by the Tennessee Board of Legal Specialization and the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) since 2008
    • AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell (earned in 2025)
    • Over 43 years of trusted, trial-proven legal experience
    • Recognized for excellence in criminal defense and complex litigation across Tennessee and beyond

Mission Statement

Your case matters. You deserve a defender who listens and leads.


Whether you’re accused of a serious felony or facing a legal dispute that threatens your reputation or livelihood, I bring experience, judgment, and a steady hand to your corner. Every case I accept gets personal attention—because you’re trusting me with your future. And I don’t take that lightly.

Our Core Values

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Integrity

I offer straight answers and practical legal guidance—not false promises or performative flair.

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Personal Connection

I handle every case personally. No layers, no runaround—just direct communication and committed counsel.

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Precision & Focus

In trial work, details matter. I build each case from the ground up with discipline and care.

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Transparency

From fees to timelines, I keep everything clear so you always know what to expect.

Explore Practice Areas

Let’s Talk It Through

My Nashville law firm serves clients across Davidson, Rutherford, Williamson, Sumner, and Cheatham Counties in Middle Tennessee. I offer free consultations to help you understand your legal position and options. When you call, you’ll speak directly with me—no assistants, no handoffs. Let’s discuss your case and chart the path forward together.

Request a Consultation