Criminal Defense Attorney in Marion County
Benefit from Our Decades of Experience
A criminal conviction can have lasting implications on your personal and professional life, which is why it is so important to have experienced counsel on your side. At Law Offices of Meredith Mochel, we can work tirelessly to help you understand your options and work toward a favorable case resolution. Whether that means helping you negotiate a plea or representing you in court, our attorney is here for you.
To discuss your case with a member of our firm, call (423) 250-1499.
Cases Our Marion County Team Handles
We offer counsel to those charged with the following offenses:
- Assault charges
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Drug offenses
- Murder/homicide
- Sex offenses
- Theft offenses
- Violent offenses
When Should You Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney?
One of the most critical times to contact a criminal defense attorney is when you’re under criminal investigation. Even if you believe you have done nothing wrong, it is essential to have an experienced attorney by your side.
A criminal investigation can escalate quickly, and statements made to law enforcement can have significant consequences. An attorney can provide guidance on how to proceed, protect your rights, and potentially prevent charges from being filed.
Similarly, if you are approached by law enforcement for an interview or discussion, it is crucial to consult with an attorney beforehand. Law enforcement officers are taught to keep potential suspects talking, and anything you say can be used against you in court. Our Marion County defense attorney can advise you on whether to speak to the police, what questions to answer, and how to protect your rights during the interview.
Thus, whether you are pulled over for a DUI on Highway 28 or approached for an interview for an interview after allegedly being involved in an assault incident, the first thing you say should be that you want an attorney.
Why You Shouldn’t Speak to Law Enforcement Without a Defense Attorney
One of the most fundamental rights afforded to individuals within the legal system is the right to remain silent. Whenever you are approached by law enforcement, you should invoke this right. Any statements made to authorities without legal counsel can be used against an individual in a court of law.
A defense attorney is trained to navigate the complexities of the legal system and protect a client's rights. They possess the knowledge and experience to assess the situation, gather evidence, and formulate a defense strategy. By exercising the right to remain silent and seeking legal representation, individuals can significantly enhance their chances of a favorable outcome.
It is essential to remember that law enforcement officers are trained in investigative procedures and their primary objective is to gather evidence to support a prosecution. Any statements made to them, even with the best intentions, could be misinterpreted or taken out of context. An attorney acts as a crucial intermediary, ensuring that an individual's rights are protected and that their interests are prioritized.
Breakdown of Tennessee Offense Classifications
You can be charged with a felony or misdemeanor offense, the latter being the less severe of the two classifications. There are five types of felonies in Tennessee:
- Class E felonies, which are punishable by up to six years in prison and a fine of up to $3,000.
- Class D felonies, which are punishable by two to 12 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Class C felonies, which are punishable by three to 15 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $15,000.
- Class B felonies, which are punishable by eight to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
- Class A felonies, which are punishable by up to 60 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.
There are three classifications of misdemeanors:
- Class C misdemeanors, which are punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $50.
- Class B misdemeanors, which are punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $500.
- Class A misdemeanors, which are punishable by up to 11 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
Local Attorneys for the Twelfth Judicial District of Tennessee
We are available to offer legal counsel to clients who are under arrest or who are being actively investigated. Our attorney has been practicing law and offering clients rigorous defense for over two decades.
We recognize that facing criminal prosecution can be the scariest moment of your life, so we aim to offer you peace of mind and strength by acting in your best interest and providing you with reliable counsel.
Our Marion County defense team is just a click or call away: (423) 250-1499.
