These charges in Tennessee might not carry the weight of a felony, but make no mistake: they can still have lasting consequences. Jail time. Fines. Probation. A permanent record that shows up on background checks. Whether you’re facing a Class A, B, or C misdemeanor, the wrong move now can haunt you for years.
At Harvey Criminal Defense Lawyers, we treat every case like it’s make-or-break—because for you, it is. We build bold, strategic defenses to protect your record, your reputation, and your future.
Tennessee classifies criminal offenses based on the severity of the potential punishment. Misdemeanors are less serious than felonies but still carry up to 11 months and 29 days in jail.
| Class | Max Jail Time | Max Fine | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class A | 11 months, 29 days | $2,500 | Stalking, resisting arrest, joyriding |
| Class B | 6 months | $500 | Prostitution, criminal trespass, indecent exposure |
| Class C | 30 days | $50 | Public intoxication, disorderly conduct, using fake ID |
Even a Class C misdemeanor can lead to jail, probation, and a criminal record. We don’t take any charge lightly—and neither should you.
Tennessee law allows for a range of sentencing outcomes for misdemeanor charges. If you’re eligible, we push for the options that keep you out of jail and your record clean.
Every case is different. We tailor our strategy to the facts of your case and your goals.
Many first-time offenders in Tennessee qualify for pretrial or judicial diversion.
Note: DUIs, sex offenses, and crimes involving children generally aren’t eligible for diversion.
We help determine your eligibility and fight for these alternatives wherever possible.
If you’ve been convicted of a misdemeanor, you may still be able to erase it from your record. Tennessee allows expungement for many nonviolent misdemeanor offenses after a waiting period.
We handle every step of the process so you can move forward without a record hanging over you.
Harvey Criminal Defense Lawyers handles all misdemeanor cases, including:
If you’re unsure how your charge is classified, give us a call. We’ll explain exactly what you’re facing and what your options are.
Misdemeanors may seem minor—until they’re not.
And in Tennessee, repeat misdemeanors can escalate into felony charges.
Don’t give the system a free shot at your record. We know how to stop it.
We don’t take shortcuts. We don’t push pleas unless they benefit you. We don’t stop fighting.
Whether you’re a first-time offender or facing enhanced penalties, our team is ready to go to work.
We take control of the situation fast, review all evidence, and build a personalized defense plan that fits your goals.
You have too much to lose to treat this like “just a misdemeanor.” At Harvey Criminal Defense Lawyers, we treat every charge like your future depends on it—because it does.
Contact us now for a confidential consultation. Let’s talk about your options before the prosecution makes their move.
The most serious misdemeanors (Class A) carry up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and a $2,500 fine. Class B misdemeanors carry up to 6 months and a $500 fine, while Class C misdemeanors max out at 30 days and $50.
Yes, but it’s often avoidable. First-time offenders may qualify for probation, judicial diversion, or even pretrial diversion—options that can keep the conviction off your record if completed successfully.
It can—unless you’re eligible for expungement. Many nonviolent misdemeanors can be expunged five years after you finish your sentence, but offenses like DUI and domestic assault are excluded.
Violating probation terms—like missing check-ins or failing drug tests—can result in your probation being revoked and you being sent to jail to serve out the remaining sentence.
Absolutely. Even a “minor” charge can impact your job, housing, immigration status, or gun rights. A criminal defense lawyer can often help you avoid jail, reduce charges, or keep your record clean.
The prosecutors are already building their case against you. Every day you wait is another day they get stronger.
But you don’t have to face this alone.
