Being charged with a state criminal offense in Tennessee can be overwhelming, especially if it is your first time dealing with the legal system. Whether the charge is a felony or a serious misdemeanor, your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line. Understanding the process can help you stay grounded—and having the right trial attorney helps you stay protected.

The Tennessee State Criminal Process

State cases are prosecuted by the District Attorney in Tennessee courts. These cases include charges such as DUI, drug offenses, aggravated assault, white collar crimes, and violent felonies. No matter the allegation, the state must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. A strong defense is built on holding the state to that burden.

What Happens After an Arrest

While every case has unique facts, most Tennessee criminal cases follow a similar path:

Arrest or citation: Police either detain you or issue a summons.
Initial appearance and bond: A judge sets release conditions and bail.
Arraignment: You enter a plea—typically “not guilty”—and receive future court dates.
Discovery and investigation: Your attorney reviews evidence, interviews witnesses, and evaluates police conduct.
Motions: The defense may challenge illegal searches, weak evidence, or procedural errors.
Negotiations and plea offers: Not every case should go to trial, but every case should be prepared as if it will.
Trial: If the state cannot meet its burden, trial may be the best strategy.
Sentencing (if convicted): Penalties are decided separately and require continued advocacy.

Key Moments That Influence the Outcome

Early decisions often shape the entire case. Bond hearings affect whether you can continue working; evidence challenges can end a case before trial; and the strength of your trial preparation influences how prosecutors negotiate. With more than 43 years of litigation experience, Mark Scruggs brings credibility and courtroom skill that often impacts how cases proceed.

Common Defenses in Tennessee Cases

Effective defenses depend on the facts, but may include:

- Unlawful search and seizure
- Self-defense or defense of others
- Insufficient or unreliable evidence
- Lack of intent
- False accusations
- Police procedural errors

Felony-Level Consequences

Felony convictions in Tennessee can carry years of incarceration, heavy fines, probation, and loss of rights. Some offenses involve mandatory minimum sentences or enhanced penalties for prior convictions. Preparation—not hope—is essential.

What You Should Do Right Away

If you are facing state criminal charges:

- Do not speak to police without counsel
- Write down everything you remember
- Preserve texts, photos, receipts, and witness names
- Avoid discussing the case online
- Contact an experienced trial attorney quickly

Speak With Attorney Mark Scruggs

State criminal cases in Nashville and across Middle Tennessee move quickly. If you want a defense rooted in strategy, experience, and litigation skill, connect with a trial attorney who has tried cases for more than four decades.

Call (615) 419-6154 or visit markscruggs.com to request a free consultation.