DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ATTORNEY
IN CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE

In 2018, an annual report from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation indicated that about 73,568 domestic violence offenses were reported to Tennessee law enforcement, and that females were nearly three times as likely to be victimized than males. The state of Tennessee defines domestic abuse as the abuse of a former or current intimate partner or family member. Any defendant convicted on charges of domestic violence or domestic assault may be facing lengthy jail time, hefty fines, a protection order, and other life-altering consequences.

If you're facing domestic violence charges or if you’re under investigation for domestic assault, it is imperative that you retain an aggressive and skilled Tennessee criminal defense attorney who can provide you with a strong defense strategy. At the Law Offices of Fisher Wise, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive legal guidance and strong representation to clients who have been accused of domestic violence. As your legal counsel, I will investigate every last detail of your case, outline a strong defense strategy, and fight aggressively to protect your rights throughout every phase of the legal process.

My firm, the Law Offices of Fisher Wise, proudly represents clients across Chattanooga, Red Bank, Soddy-Daisy, Bradley County, East Ridge, Rhea County, Marion County, Sequatchie County, Hamilton County, and Bledsoe County, Tennessee.

Domestic Violence Charges in Tennessee

In Tennessee, physical domestic violence is often referred to as “domestic assault.” Pursuant to Tennessee Code Section 39-13-111(b), a person commits domestic assault when he or she commits an “assault” against a domestic abuse victim.

According to Tennessee Code Section 39-13-101, a person commits assault when they:

• Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly cause bodily injury to another

• Intentionally or knowingly cause another to reasonably fear imminent bodily injury

• Intentionally or knowingly cause physical contact with another person in a way that may be considered extremely offensive or provocative.

General Provisions of the Law

Under Tennessee Code Section 39-13-111(a), domestic abuse victims can include:

• Adults or minors who are current or former spouses

• Adults or minors who live together or who have lived together

• Adults or minors who are dating, who have dated, or who have or had a sexual relationship

• Adults or minors related by blood or adoption

• Adults or minors who are related or were formerly related by marriage

• Adult or minor children of a person in a relationship

Possible Consequences and Penalties

The possible penalties for a defendant who is convicted of domestic assault in Tennessee will depend on the severity of the charges and other factors such as whether or not the defendant is a repeat offender. With that in mind, if you have been charged with domestic assault in Tennessee, you can expect the following:

Misdemeanor Charges

Domestic assault may be classified as a Class A or B misdemeanor.

• Class A misdemeanor: Punishable by up to 11 months, 29 days, a maximum fine of $2,500, or both.

• Class B misdemeanor: Punishable up to 6 months in jail and a $500 fine.

Second Domestic Assault Conviction

Punishable by 30 days to 11 months and 29 days in jail, and a fine of between $350 and $3,500.

Third or Subsequent Convictions

Punishable by 90 days to 11 months and 29 days in jail, and a fine of between $1,100 and $5,000.

Other Potential Consequences

Other potential consequences for a domestic assault conviction include the following:

• Loss of the right to possess firearms

• Mandatory anger management classes

• Loss of parenting privileges or child custody rights

• A protection or restraining order against you

• Possible deportation

• Loss of employment

• Difficulty in securing a new job

• Losing your eligibility to run for a public office

• Difficulties in getting housing, public assistance, educational, and professional opportunities

Hire a Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney

Domestic violence allegations are serious and can have devastating consequences to your reputation, freedom, and your personal and professional future. You can’t afford to choose just any attorney when attempting to defend yourself from these charges. It is crucial that you retain a skilled Tennessee criminal defense attorney who has the knowledge and experience needed to successfully defend your rights and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

At the Law Offices of Fisher Wise, I have devoted my entire career to providing experienced legal guidance and strong representation to individuals facing domestic violence charges. As your legal counsel, I can review and investigate every last detail of your case, gather and review all of the evidence linked to the charges, and outline an effective defense strategy for your case. I will provide the guidance you need to navigate the Tennessee criminal justice system and ensure that you are treated fairly from start to finish. So don’t wait. If you’ve been charged with domestic violence or domestic assault, call or reach out to my office today for help.