Stephens & DiRado, LLP

Knoxville Criminal Court Defense Attorneys

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Experienced Session Court Representation in Knox, Loudon and Anderson Counties and throughout all of East Tennessee

If your case has advanced to Criminal Court (also known as Circuit Court in some East Tennessee counties), it’s a sign that the prosecution is moving forward—and that the stakes are high. At Stephens & DiRado, LLP, we provide dedicated, trial-ready representation for clients facing serious charges in Tennessee's criminal justice system.

→ Facing Trial or Felony Charges in Criminal Court? Contact Us Today at (865) 545-0909 for a Free, Confidential Consultation.

What Happens in Criminal Court?

Key steps in the criminal court process include:

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Arraignment

You’ll be formally presented with the charges and asked to enter a plea.

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Motions and Hearings

Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or address legal issues.

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Pre-Trial Negotiations

This is when many plea deals are negotiated. Our attorneys only recommend plea agreements when they truly serve your best interests.

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Trial

If a plea is not reached or not in your favor, we prepare for trial. Our lawyers have tried dozens of cases in front of Tennessee juries.

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Sentencing

If convicted, we fight for reduced penalties or alternatives to incarceration.

What Is Criminal Court in Tennessee?

Criminal Court handles felony-level offenses and appeals from General Sessions Court. If your case reaches this stage, it likely means:


  • You’ve been indicted by a grand jury or had a preliminary hearing with a finding of probable cause.


  • The district attorney has chosen to prosecute your case as a felony.

  • You’re facing serious penalties, including extended jail or prison time, fines, or loss of rights.

At this stage, it is essential to have an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands how to navigate the rules of criminal procedure, evidentiary law, and local courtroom dynamics.

Criminal Cases We Handle in Criminal Court

Our criminal defense attorneys handle a full range of serious charges in Knox and Anderson Counties, including drug crimes such as possession, trafficking, and manufacturing; domestic violence; DUI and repeat offenses; firearm and weapons charges; violent crimes including assault, robbery, aggravated assault, and homicide; juvenile offenses charged in adult court; sex crimes such as sexual assault, exploitation, and registration violations; white collar crimes including fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft; and theft and burglary.

Why Choose Stephens & DiRado, LLP for Criminal Court Defense?

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Trial-Ready Attorneys

We’ve handled hundreds of criminal court cases and tried dozens of jury trials in East Tennessee. Our courtroom reputation means prosecutors take our cases seriously.

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Strategic, Personalized Defense

We don’t rely on cookie-cutter defenses. We dig into the details of your case, challenge weak evidence, and explore every legal angle.

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Local Experience That Matters

Our team knows the Knox and Anderson County criminal court systems inside and out—including the judges, prosecutors, and procedures that can affect the outcome of your case.

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Client-Centered Communication

We keep you informed and involved at every stage, so you can make the best decisions for your life and your future.

Navigating Sessions with Confidence

Schedule a Free Criminal Court Consultation

If you’re scheduled to appear in Criminal Court or are worried about potential felony charges, don’t wait. The earlier our attorneys can start investigating, the more options we can create for your defense.

Call 865-545-0909 Request a Free Consultation Online