What is Probable Cause? By: Joshua T. Crain – Attorney at Law | September 20, 2025 When someone is stopped by police, arrested, or searched, one of the most critical legal standards that comes into play is “probable cause.” In Tennessee, as in the rest of the United States, probable cause is a constitutional requirement…

What is an Indictment? By: Joshua T. Crain – Attorney at Law | September 08, 2025 Being charged with a crime can feel overwhelming and confusing, especially if you hear terms that are unfamiliar, like “indictment.” In Tennessee, the indictment process plays a crucial role in determining how felony cases proceed in court. Understanding what…

What Makes a Crime Aggravated in Tennessee? By: Joshua T. Crain – Attorney at Law | August 01, 2025 In Tennessee, not all crimes are treated equally. While many offenses fall under standard classifications such as misdemeanors or felonies, certain actions or circumstances can elevate a crime to an aggravated offense. An aggravated crime typically…

Do Misdemeanors Go on Your Record? By: Joshua T. Crain – Attorney at Law | June 20, 2025 If you have been charged with a misdemeanor in Tennessee, you may wonder about its impact on your permanent record. The answer is yes, misdemeanors typically appear on your criminal record and can affect your life in…

What is the Punishment for Breaking and Entering in Tennessee? By: Joshua T. Crain – Attorney at Law | June 09, 2025 According to the Poor People’s Campaign, Tennessee is home to almost two million low-income individuals. The Spotlight on Poverty & Opportunity also notes that over 13% of the population struggles with food insecurity.…

Is It Illegal to Leave the Scene of an Accident in Tennessee? By: Joshua T. Crain – Attorney at Law | May 27, 2025 A car accident is one of the most shocking things a person can experience. After a collision, the “fight-or-flight” reflex often kicks in, fueled by adrenaline and shock. It may be…

Can You Get Arrested for Jaywalking? By: Joshua T. Crain – Attorney at Law | May 27, 2025 The first jaywalking laws in the United States arose in 1912, and it was not long until the entire country had adopted these traffic regulations. Jaywalking today can be particularly dangerous, especially when you consider the number…

Is Driving on a Suspended License a Criminal Offense? By: Joshua T. Crain – Attorney at Law | May 14, 2025 Before 1903, driving licenses were not required in the United States. If you wanted to drive, all you needed was a functioning automobile. But as cars became more widespread across the nation, governments recognized…

Getting Arrested While Visiting Nashville By: Joshua T. Crain – Attorney at Law | April 14, 2025 Nashville is a major tourism hub, attracting more than 15 million visitors each year. If you are one of these people and you were arrested while visiting the city, you might be wondering about what happens next. What…

How Does a Judge Determine Your Consequences for a Violent Crime? By: Joshua T. Crain – Attorney at Law | March 20, 2025 The penalties associated with violent felony convictions can range anywhere from fines to life imprisonment or even death. No two crimes, or people, are the same. Tennessee judges have discretion to consider…