Attorney Bryan Stephenson is highlighted as one of the Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Nashville, as well as one of the Best DUI Attorneys in Nashville according to Forbes Advisor Legal. Forbes Advisor Legal takes into account factors that legal professionals and consumers value in an attorney’s qualifications.

Having an arrest record can cause difficulties when applying for jobs, housing, or seeking further education. Fortunately, there’s a path to clearing your record – expungement in Tennessee. If you’re facing the consequences of an arrest, consulting a Nashville criminal defense lawyer, like those at The Law Office of Bryan Stephenson, can help you understand your options.

Arrest Records Qualified for Expungement in TN

Not every arrest in Tennessee qualifies for expungement. To be considered for expungement, your case must generally meet the following criteria:

• Dismissed Charges: If the charges against you were dropped or dismissed.
• Acquittals: If you were found not guilty by a judge or jury.
• Arrests without Charges: If you were arrested but never formally charged with a crime.
• Certain Misdemeanors: Some misdemeanors are eligible for expungement after a waiting period.
  

Certain serious offenses, such as certain types of DUI and most felonies, are not eligible for expungement.

As of 2025, Tennessee updated its expungement statute, moving it from Tennessee Code Annotated § 40-32-101 to § 40-32-107. This revised law clarifies eligibility and offers expanded relief in some cases. While many felony convictions still do not qualify, individuals with arrests tied to dismissed or non-prosecuted charges may benefit from broader access to expungement. The law also reinforces that charges resolved through pretrial diversion or a “no true bill” remain eligible, which can be especially helpful for those seeking to move forward after an arrest.

Free Expungement in Tennessee

Tennessee offers free expungement in specific situations, making the process more accessible for those who qualify. You may be eligible for free expungement if:

• You were arrested but never charged with a crime.
• The charge was dismissed, retired, or resulted in a nolle prosequi.
• The grand jury returned a “no true bill” (declined to charge you).
• An order of protection filed against you was successfully defended and denied after a hearing.
  

Not Sure if Your Arrest Record Can Be Expunged?

Having your arrest record expunged in Tennessee can be a life-changing experience. When an arrest is expunged, it’s essentially erased from public view. This means that, in most situations, you can legally deny that the arrest ever occurred. Expungement in Tennessee can enhance your chances of securing employment, renting an apartment, and other opportunities.

Expungement can be a complicated process, and success relies on fulfilling strict legal requirements. If you have an arrest on your record in Tennessee, The Law Office of Bryan Stephenson can help determine if you’re eligible for expungement. Our expert team will guide you through the entire process.

Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation with a Nashville criminal defense attorney and explore how expungement in TN can help you move forward.

Domestic assault in Tennessee is a serious offense with lasting consequences. If you have been convicted of domestic assault, you may understandably want to explore having the conviction removed from your record by seeking a domestic violence lawyer in Nashville. This process is called “expungement.” Unfortunately, Tennessee’s laws regarding expungement are strict, particularly when it comes to domestic violence charges.

Non-Expungement of Domestic Assault Conviction

As of 2025, Tennessee’s expungement laws were recodified under Tennessee Code Annotated § 40-32-107, replacing the former § 40-32-101. Despite this revision, convictions for domestic assault remain ineligible for expungement. The updated law continues to exclude violent offenses from eligibility, and domestic assault is specifically listed among those that cannot be cleared. Even if you meet all other expungement criteria, including the passage of time and completion of sentencing, a domestic assault conviction will stay on your record permanently.

This restriction applies to all domestic assault charges, including:

• Domestic Assault: Knowingly or intentionally causing bodily injury to a household member
• Aggravated Domestic Assault: Circumstances that elevate the offense, such as using a weapon or inflicting serious bodily harm
  

Impact of a Non-Expungeable Conviction

A domestic assault conviction in Tennessee remaining on your record can significantly impact your life, including:

• Employment: Background checks are common, and employers may be hesitant to hire someone convicted of domestic assault in Tennessee.
• Housing: Rental applications may include background checks, limiting your options.
• Firearm Rights: You will lose the right to own or possess firearms.
• Reputational Damage: The stigma of a Tennessee domestic violence conviction can have social and professional repercussions.
  

Alternative Legal Options

While expungement may not be an option, there are some possible alternatives:

• Judicial Diversion: If you are a first-time offender, you might be eligible for a judicial diversion program. Successful completion can lead to the dismissal of your charges, but it is not the same as having them expunged. If you are facing a pending domestic assault charge, it is critical to seek legal representation before your court date. In some cases, an attorney can help negotiate to dismiss or retire the charge. Both outcomes can make you eligible for expungement under Tennessee law. Additionally, under T.C.A. § 40-32-107, certain non-domestic assault convictions may now be eligible for expungement, depending on how they are classified.
  

• Seeking a Pardon: Although extremely difficult, the governor of Tennessee has the authority to grant pardons in certain instances. This only applies when it’s a conviction.
  

If you’re facing domestic assault charges or have a conviction on your record, having experienced legal representation is essential. A knowledgeable domestic violence lawyer in Nashville can help protect your rights and advise you on your options.

Bryan understands the severity of a domestic assault conviction and its ongoing impact. He has extensive experience in navigating Tennessee’s complex criminal laws, including TN domestic violence laws. For legal counsel and representation, contact us at The Law Office of Bryan Stephenson for a free consultation.

Driving while under the influence of impairing substances is a serious offense in Tennessee. While many people are familiar with the risks of driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI), it is essential to understand that Tennessee drug laws also have severe consequences when it comes to driving under the influence of drugs (often called “drugged driving”). If you are facing drug charges, such as drugged driving, consulting with a qualified drug defense lawyer is crucial to protecting your rights.

Tennessee Drug Schedule System

Tennessee classifies drugs into different schedules based on their potential for abuse and medical usefulness. This classification system has implications for DUI cases.

For instance, Schedule I drugs are considered the most dangerous with no currently accepted medical use (like heroin), while Schedule V drugs have a lower potential for abuse. Being caught driving under the influence of drugs of any schedule can result in a DUI charge.

Penalties for Drug Offenses

Depending on the type of drug, the amount, and whether the offense involves possession, distribution, or DUI, the consequences can include:

• Jail Time
• Fines
• Driver’s License Suspension
• Probation
• Mandatory Drug Treatment Programs

The sooner you seek legal representation, the greater the chance of protecting your rights and minimizing the penalties.

Drugged Driving in Tennessee

In Tennessee, it is illegal to drive or be in physical control of a vehicle while under the influence of drugs. Any impairing substance, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, or illegal drugs.

It does not matter if the drug was lawfully prescribed if it impairs your ability to drive safely. Further, even if your BAC is below the legal limit, you can still be charged with DUI if you are impaired by a combination of substances.

Know Your Legal Rights, Talk to a Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are facing drug-related DUI charges in Tennessee, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. An experienced DUI lawyer in Nashville, TN at the Law Office of Bryan Stephenson, can help you understand the charges against you and build the best possible criminal defense against DUI in Tennessee.

Contact us today for a consultation. We are committed to protecting your rights and helping you achieve the best possible result in your drugged driving in Tennessee case.

Probation for DWI

When it comes to legal matters, the distinction between DWI (Driving While Impaired) and DUI (Driving Under the Influence) can be critical, especially in Tennessee. If you or a loved one has been charged with an underage DWI in Nashville, it is essential to know the nuances of the law. At the Law Office of Bryan Stephenson, we provide DUI defense in Tennessee, including underage DWI cases, ensuring that underaged individuals’ rights are protected throughout the legal process.

Difference Between DUI and DWI in Tennessee

There is a slight difference between DWI and DUI in Tennessee. DWI is typically relegated to individuals under the legal drinking age, which means those under 21 years old. On the other hand, DUI stands for an adult 21 years or older who has been caught driving under the influence.

One crucial distinction between underage DWI and adult DUI in Tennessee is the approach to probation. In DWI cases involving individuals under 21, the state of Tennessee does not carry jail time and probation in the same way as an adult DUI does. Instead, the focus may be on rehabilitation and education to prevent future incidents, and license suspension or revocation.

Underage DWI Penalties

The penalties for underage DWI in Tennessee can vary depending on the age of the individual. Let’s break down the penalties for two age groups: 13 to 17 and 16 to 20.

For those aged 13 to 17, Tennessee enforces a zero-tolerance policy. This means that any detectable amount of alcohol in their system can lead to a DWI charge. Penalties may include license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, and community service.

For individuals aged 16 to 20, the penalties for underage DWI can include license revocation, mandatory alcohol treatment or education, and fines. The severity of these penalties can vary based on factors like blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and whether it is a first-time or repeat offense.

DUI Defense for All Ages

If you or someone you know is facing an underage DWI charge, it is essential to seek a DWI/DUI lawyer for prompt legal assistance. Protect your rights, your future, and your driving privileges. Contact the Law Office of Bryan Stephenson, your trusted Nashville TN DUI attorney, today for a consultation.

Tennessee DUI Offense

Driving under the influence (DUI) in Tennessee is a serious offense, with the state enforcing stringent laws to deter impaired driving and ensure public safety. If you are facing a DUI charge in Tennessee, understanding the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences is crucial. The Law Office of Bryan Stephenson in Tennessee, provides robust DUI defense, helping clients navigate the complexities of DUI laws.

DUI Offense Penalties

The penalties for a DUI offense in Tennessee are multifaceted and severe, designed to serve as a deterrent. For a first-time offender, the consequences typically include a mandatory jail time which can extend up to 11 months and 29 days for more severe cases. Fines range from $350 to $1,500, and there is a mandatory suspension of driving privileges for one year. These penalties intensify with each subsequent DUI offense, reflecting the state’s stance on repeat violations.

Aggravating Factors to a DUI Offense

The severity of penalties can escalate depending on specific circumstances surrounding the DUI offense. For instance, if a DUI results in property damage, injuries, or, in the worst-case scenario, fatalities, the consequences become significantly harsher.

Other aggravating factors include having a blood alcohol content (BAC) substantially above the legal limit, having a minor in the vehicle, or being involved in an accident. These factors can lead to longer jail sentences, higher fines, and extended suspension or revocation of driving privileges.

Legal Right for a Strong DUI Defense

DUI offenses in Tennessee carry serious implications. They demand a robust legal defense to ensure that the rights of the accused are protected and that they receive a fair and just consideration under the law.

A strong defense against a DUI charge requires meticulous examination of the case details. This includes assessing the lawfulness of the traffic stop, the accuracy of the sobriety tests, and the validity of the evidence collected.

If you are grappling with a DUI offense, Bryan Stephenson, a Nashville TN DUI lawyer, offers the requisite legal support. Contact the Law Office of Bryan Stephenson today to safeguard your future.