Johnson Law Firm

I Will Fight For You. Call 731-260-8235

Johnson Law Firm
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Safeguarding Your Rights And Protecting Your Future

Jackson, Tennessee, Criminal Defense Attorney

At Johnson Law Firm, I defend people charged with felonies and misdemeanors in Tennessee. If you are facing serious criminal charges, your rights and your freedom are on the line. I can support you through the legal process of a criminal case, making sure you get the passionate, diligent and zealous defense you deserve.

Prior to starting my firm, I prosecuted crimes as an assistant U.S. attorney and as a special assistant U.S. attorney. Now, I put this experience to work for you. I understand how a prosecutor might approach your case and how they will present their case in court. I know how to counter prosecutors’ tactics to achieve positive outcomes. Contact me today for a consultation to discuss your case.

Attorney Brian Johnson is a very kind-hearted person; someone who listens and really cares about the situation I was involved in. He is a God fearing man and that was someone that I could definitely relate to. He was honest with me about the case I brought to him and didnt give me false hope. He fought with all his might and I really thank God for working through him. Attorney Johnson is an awesome lawyer and will go to bat to the very end for you. If you need someone to represent you in anything; especially criminal charges I would definitely recommend this humble attorney right here. Thank you Attorney Brian Johnson. – The Woodfork Family FindLaw Reviews

I Have Been Charged With A Crime. Now What?

Johnson Law Firm is a client-centered criminal defense practice. I stand by one very important principle – that every person is entitled to assert their rights, no matter what they have been accused of. Whether you’re facing misdemeanor charges or serious felonies, my approach is simple: listen carefully, investigate thoroughly, communicate clearly and fight relentlessly for the most favorable outcome.

I represent people charged with any felony or misdemeanor, including:

I measure success not only by favorable results in court but also by how supported my clients feel throughout a stressful process. Former clients tell me I brought them peace of mind through a combination of tough representation and practical solutions. My goal is to make sure your future is as bright as possible, no matter what has happened in the past.

If Convicted, The Penalties Could Be Life-Changing

I understand that this is a stressful time, and you are probably under extreme pressure. However, you should understand that the costs of your crime could be more severe than you think. If convicted, you may face a host of consequences, which may include:

  • Prison time
  • Extensive fines
  • High court costs
  • Probation
  • Drug tests
  • Sexual registry for sex offenders
  • Trouble finding a job (employers typically conduct a background check)
  • Problems locating housing
  • Loss of voting rights
  • Loss of the right to bear firearms

When you work with my firm, I will help you identify and understand the unique potential consequences of your criminal charge. Together, we can create a plan to pursue the most favorable outcome. In some instances, this may mean fighting the charges at trial. In others, it may mean negotiating a resolution that minimizes negative consequences. My experience on both sides of the courtroom allows me to give you honest and straightforward advice about your options. From your first call through the final disposition, I will keep you informed and fight to defend your rights.

What Clients Ask About Criminal Defense In Tennessee

Many of the clients I’ve worked with over the years had similar questions about their rights, the legal process and what they should do next. I’ve compiled answers to these common questions to give you a clearer understanding of what lies ahead.

What should I do immediately after being arrested?

Getting arrested is stressful, but the actions you take right away can make a real difference in your case. Here are steps you can take to protect your rights:

  • Stay calm and composed: Reacting angrily or resisting can make the situation worse and may lead to additional charges.
  • Exercise your right to remain silent: Politely tell the officers you wish to remain silent and want to speak with an attorney.
  • Request an attorney immediately: Having legal counsel from the start protects your rights and ensures your defense begins on solid ground.
  • Do not provide false information: While you should limit what you say, never lie to law enforcement, as this can create serious problems for your case.
  • Avoid discussing your case with anyone except your lawyer: Don’t talk about what happened with friends or family, or on social media. These conversations can be used against you.

Once you contact me, I can begin working on your case right away. I’ll review the circumstances of your arrest, protect your constitutional rights and start building your defense strategy.

What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Tennessee?

The key difference is the severity of the crime and the potential punishment you could face. Misdemeanors are offenses with a maximum punishment of less than one year. While they’re generally considered less serious, a misdemeanor conviction can still result in a permanent criminal record. Tennessee divides misdemeanors into three classes:

  • Class A misdemeanor: Up to 11 months and 29 days in jail, and fines up to $2,500
  • Class B misdemeanor: Up to six months in jail with lesser fines
  • Class C misdemeanor: Up to 30 days in jail with the lowest level of penalties

Common misdemeanor charges include simple assault, minor theft and certain drug offenses.

On the other hand, felonies are more serious crimes with a minimum punishment of one year or more. A felony conviction can result in years or even decades of imprisonment, along with substantial fines. Tennessee classifies felonies from Class E, which are the least severe, to more severe Class A offenses. Examples include aggravated assault, homicide, drug trafficking, white collar crimes involving significant financial loss and sex offenses.

What factors do judges consider when setting bail?

When a judge sets bail, they look at several factors to determine whether you should be released before trial and how much money, if any, is required. Judges typically consider:

  • The nature and severity of the charges: The most serious offenses, such as aggravated assault, generally result in higher bail than a first-offense DUI. The judge also looks at whether a weapon was involved, whether anyone was injured and the maximum possible sentence.
  • The strength of the evidence: If the prosecution’s evidence appears strong, the judge may be more concerned about flight risk.
  • Your ties to the community: How long you’ve lived in the area matters significantly. Someone who has been a local resident for many years presents a different flight risk than someone who recently moved to town.
  • Employment and status and history: A steady job with a local employer shows stability and makes it more likely you’ll appear for court.
  • Prior criminal record: A clean record helps your case considerably. Previous convictions or a history of missing court dates can be a significant problem.

Remember, at bail hearings, the goal is to ensure you return for court dates while protecting public safety. Understanding what influences decisions can help you prepare for your bail hearing.

Even First-Time Offenders Face Consequences – Contact Me Today

Regardless of whether you are a first-time offender or if you have an extensive criminal history, criminal charges are very serious. You need an attorney who understands criminal court. I have assisted clients through the legal process for over a decade. Email me or call me at 731-260-8235 to arrange an appointment.