Domestic Assault Attorney in Knoxville, TN
A domestic assault charge in Tennessee carries serious legal and personal consequences. Unlike general assault cases, domestic assault charges involve people in close personal relationships and often bring immediate repercussions such as protective orders, removal from the home, and restrictions on parenting time. At Easter & DeVore, we represent individuals in Knoxville, TN facing domestic assault charges, and we work to protect your rights, reputation, and future every step of the way.
What Constitutes Domestic Assault in Tennessee?
Under Tennessee law (T.C.A. § 39-13-111), domestic assault is defined as an assault committed against a:
- Current or former spouse
- Roommate or individual who lives in the same household
- Person with whom the accused has or had a dating or sexual relationship
- Blood or adoptive relative, or relative by marriage
Domestic assault includes the same behaviors as simple assault, such as causing bodily injury, placing someone in fear of imminent harm, or engaging in offensive physical contact—but when the alleged victim is in a domestic relationship with the accused, the charge is elevated and carries additional penalties.
Penalties for a Domestic Assault Conviction
A conviction for domestic assault in Tennessee is typically classified as a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by:
- Up to 11 months and 29 days in jail
- Fines up to $2,500
- Mandatory counseling or anger management classes
- Possible probation
- Court costs and fees
In addition to these penalties, a domestic assault conviction can result in:
- A permanent criminal record that cannot be expunged
- Loss of firearm rights
- Court-issued protective orders or no-contact orders
- Impacts on family law matters, including custody or visitation
Our attorney understands the serious nature of these consequences and fights aggressively to reduce or dismiss charges where possible.
Immediate Consequences Following an Arrest
In Tennessee, law enforcement officers have broad authority to make an arrest in domestic violence cases, even without a warrant or visible injuries. If police believe that an act of domestic assault occurred, they are required to arrest the primary aggressor.
After an arrest, the accused may be subject to a mandatory hold in jail before seeing a judge and may face protective orders that restrict contact with the alleged victim, including children or shared residence access. We help our clients navigate these immediate challenges, advocating for fair bond conditions and challenging unnecessary restrictions.
Building a Strong Defense
Domestic assault cases often come down to one person’s word against another’s. At Easter & DeVore, we thoroughly investigate the facts, collect witness statements, examine police reports, and identify inconsistencies or motivations behind false accusations.
Common defenses include:
- Self-defense or defense of another
- False allegations during a divorce or custody dispute
- Lack of evidence or corroboration
- Misidentification of the primary aggressor
We pursue pre-trial dismissals when appropriate or fight for favorable outcomes through negotiation or trial.
Contact Easter & DeVore
If you are facing a domestic assault charge in Knoxville, TN, it is critical to act quickly and secure experienced legal representation. Contact Easter & DeVore today for a confidential consultation. We are here to defend your rights and protect your future.
