When you’ve been charged with a crime in Nashville, you likely have many questions about what you can expect as your case moves through the Tennessee court system.

We understand how concerned you must be, which is why we’ve answered some of the most common questions our clients have had about their charges. If your question hasn’t been addressed below, reach out to our firm to further discuss your criminal defense.

If I’m guilty, should I bother fighting my charges?

You have the right to defend yourself against any crime you’ve been charged with, regardless of your innocence or guilt. You can work with an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Nashville who will help you build a compelling case in your favor so you can hopefully avoid being convicted of a crime that could haunt you for the rest of your life.

How long will a conviction remain on my record in TN?

That depends on the type of crime you’ve been charged with and convicted of. Some misdemeanor crimes can eventually be expunged from your record, particularly if you were convicted of a minor crime as a first-time offender.

However, the vast majority of felony convictions will remain on your record for the rest of your life. Your attorney can review the details of your case to determine whether you’ll have the opportunity to have your record expunged.

Do I need legal representation if I’m only being charged with a misdemeanor?

Absolutely. A misdemeanor may not seem like a serious offense, but the damage a conviction for a misdemeanor charge can have on your life is undeniable. Your lawyer may be able to build a defensive strategy that can help you avoid a conviction altogether or have your charges reduced so your life isn’t permanently affected by the crime for which you’ve been charged.

Shouldn’t I just explain to the police that I’m innocent?

No; in fact, you should never speak with law enforcement without your attorney present. Your Miranda rights clearly state that “anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.”

This means that anything you say to the police officer who arrested you, or any member of the law enforcement community, can be used as evidence against you. When being questioned by law enforcement, it’s best to have your attorney by your side so that only necessary questions are answered and you don’t incriminate yourself during an interrogation.

Is there a difference between probation and parole?

Probation is often used an alternative to jail time or more serious penalties, whereas parole is offered to convicted criminals who have served time and are being given a second chance to live their lives outside of jail or prison.

Get Help from a Nashville Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have recently been arrested and/or charged with a crime, having a qualified Nashville criminal defense lawyer at Raybin & Weissman, P.C. can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. You can give our office a call at 615-256-6666 or fill out the form below to meet with a seasoned attorney at your earliest convenience.