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Criminal Defense Lawyer · Chattanooga, TN/Updated June 13, 2026

The 10 Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Chattanooga, TN

Navigating criminal charges can be daunting. Our list highlights the best lawyers in Chattanooga based on real reviews and ratings.

Editorially independent10 companies evaluated
cover story
★ Editor's ChoiceBest and Brock
96Score
Latest update · June 13, 2026: Initial ranking published. 10 Chattanooga-metro criminal defense lawyer businesses evaluated, top 10 ranked by Vetted Score.

When faced with criminal charges, having a skilled lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. In Chattanooga, the field is diverse, with a few standout providers like Best and Brock, who hold an impressive 4.9-star rating from 747 reviews, contrasting sharply with others in the market.

We evaluated 10 criminal defense lawyers in the metro area, analyzing their review counts and scores. The resulting list reflects not just high ratings, but also the breadth of client feedback, ensuring you have a range of options to consider.

10criminal defense lawyers evaluated in Chattanooga
4.82average rating across the field
1.8Kcustomer reviews analyzed

Cityvetted analysis of public Google review data, updated June 13, 2026.

How much does criminal defense lawyer cost in Chattanooga? See the price breakdown →

Our top picks

At a glance · three categories
★ Editor's Choice
96Score

Best and Brock

★★★★★4.9(747 reviews)

With a stellar rating of 4.9 from 747 reviews, Best and Brock is a top choice for criminal defense in Chattanooga.

Read full review
Best Value
94Score

Stevie Phillips Law, PLLC

★★★★★4.9(181 reviews)

Stevie Phillips Law, PLLC also holds a 4.9 rating from 181 reviews, showcasing a strong reputation in the community.

Read full review
Most Reviewed
93Score

Houston & Underwood, PLLC

★★★★★4.9(167 reviews)

Houston & Underwood, PLLC has earned a 4.9 rating from 167 reviews.

Read full review

All 10, compared

Data as of June 13, 2026
BusinessVetted ScoreGoogle ratingReviewsBest for
1
Best and Brock
Best and Brock
Editor's Choice
96Score
4.9★★★★★
747Serious criminal cases requiring experienced representation
2
94Score
4.9★★★★★
181Clients looking for value without sacrificing quality
3
93Score
4.9★★★★★
167Individuals needing strong courtroom advocacy
4
90Score
5.0★★★★★
74Less complex criminal cases
5
89Score
4.8★★★★★
177Clients needing guidance through legal processes
6
88Score
4.8★★★★★
148Personalized legal strategies
7
85Score
5.0★★★★★
55Clients prioritizing personalized attention
8
84Score
4.8★★★★★
122Comprehensive representation in criminal matters
9
82Score
4.7★★★★★
137Reliable representation in legal matters
10
78Score
4.4★★★★★
34Basic legal assistance for minor cases
Methodology

How we evaluated all 10 criminal defense lawyers.

Our evaluation process involves a thorough analysis of online ratings and client reviews. We assess not only the star ratings but also the volume of reviews to gauge the consistency of service. Importantly, no business pays for placement in our rankings.

This list is refreshed monthly, allowing us to provide the most current insights into the local legal market. We prioritize transparency, ensuring you can make an informed decision based on real experiences.

The Vetted Score: six weighted factors

Customer sentiment25%
Rating quality20%
Review volume & velocity20%
Website trust signals15%
Service breadth10%
Business longevity10%

Sentiment is measured by AI analysis of review text, recency-weighted, with verified-pattern checks to discount suspicious review bursts.

Full reviews

The rankings · in order
1
★ Editor's Choice

Best and Brock

★★★★★4.9(747 reviews)
96Score

With a stellar rating of 4.9 from 747 reviews, Best and Brock is a top choice for criminal defense in Chattanooga. Clients frequently commend their thoroughness and dedication. They excel at navigating complex cases and providing personalized attention. However, their high demand can lead to longer wait times for initial consultations.

Pros

  • Highly rated by clients
  • Personalized approach
  • Experienced team

Cons

  • Potentially longer wait times for consultations
Best forSerious criminal cases requiring experienced representation
Service areaChattanooga, TN
Typical pricing$200 to $500 per hour
2
Best Value

Stevie Phillips Law, PLLC

★★★★★4.9(181 reviews)
94Score

Stevie Phillips Law, PLLC also holds a 4.9 rating from 181 reviews, showcasing a strong reputation in the community. Clients appreciate their responsiveness and the clear communication throughout the legal process. They are particularly effective for those seeking a balance of quality service and reasonable pricing. A downside is their smaller review base compared to others.

Pros

  • Great communication
  • Responsive service
  • Affordable pricing

Cons

  • Smaller review base than top competitors
Best forClients looking for value without sacrificing quality
Service areaChattanooga, TN
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
3
Most Reviewed

Houston & Underwood, PLLC

★★★★★4.9(167 reviews)
93Score

Houston & Underwood, PLLC has earned a 4.9 rating from 167 reviews. Clients praise their professionalism and thorough case preparation. They are particularly suited for individuals needing strong representation in court. However, some clients have noted that their availability can be limited due to a busy practice. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is individuals needing strong courtroom advocacy. It serves Chattanooga, TN, with $200 to $450 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited availability due to high demand.

Pros

  • Professional service
  • Thorough case preparation
  • Strong court representation

Cons

  • Limited availability due to high demand
Best forIndividuals needing strong courtroom advocacy
Service areaChattanooga, TN
Typical pricing$200 to $450 per hour
4

Zak Newman Attorney at Law

★★★★★5.0(74 reviews)
90Score

Zak Newman Attorney at Law has a perfect 5.0 rating from 74 reviews. Clients appreciate his attentive service and legal expertise. He is best for those looking for a dedicated advocate in less complex cases. However, with fewer reviews, his experience may not be as tested as larger firms. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is less complex criminal cases. It serves Chattanooga, TN, with $150 to $400 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are fewer reviews may indicate less experience.

Pros

  • Attentive service
  • Expert legal knowledge

Cons

  • Fewer reviews may indicate less experience
Best forLess complex criminal cases
Service areaChattanooga, TN
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
5

Speek, Turner & Newkirk PLLC

★★★★★4.8(177 reviews)
89Score

Speek, Turner & Newkirk PLLC holds a 4.8 rating from 177 reviews. Clients often highlight their approachable staff and effective communication strategies. They excel in providing clear guidance through the legal process. However, some clients have reported delays in response times during peak periods. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is clients needing guidance through legal processes. It serves Chattanooga, TN, with $200 to $450 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are possible delays during busy times.

Pros

  • Approachable staff
  • Effective communication

Cons

  • Possible delays during busy times
Best forClients needing guidance through legal processes
Service areaChattanooga, TN
Typical pricing$200 to $450 per hour
6

Abbott, Weiss, Faith & Darnell, PLLC

★★★★★4.8(148 reviews)
88Score

Abbott, Weiss, Faith & Darnell, PLLC has a 4.8 rating from 148 reviews. Clients praise their thoroughness and commitment to client advocacy. They are particularly effective for those seeking personalized legal strategies. However, some clients mention that their fees can be on the higher side compared to other local firms.

Pros

  • Thorough legal representation
  • Strong client advocacy

Cons

  • Higher fees compared to some competitors
Best forPersonalized legal strategies
Service areaChattanooga, TN
Typical pricing$200 to $500 per hour
7

Chattanooga Criminal Defense Law Firm

★★★★★5.0(55 reviews)
85Score

Chattanooga Criminal Defense Law Firm has a perfect 5.0 rating from 55 reviews. Clients appreciate their straightforward approach and dedication to achieving favorable outcomes. They are best for individuals looking for a team that prioritizes client needs. However, their smaller client base means less overall feedback on their services. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is clients prioritizing personalized attention. It serves Chattanooga, TN, with $150 to $400 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are smaller client base and review count.

Pros

  • Straightforward approach
  • Client-focused service

Cons

  • Smaller client base and review count
Best forClients prioritizing personalized attention
Service areaChattanooga, TN
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
8

Law Offices of Meredith Mochel

★★★★★4.8(122 reviews)
84Score

Law Offices of Meredith Mochel has a 4.8 rating from 122 reviews. Clients commend her attention to detail and legal expertise. She is best for those needing comprehensive representation in various criminal matters. However, some clients have experienced longer wait times for responses during busy periods. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is comprehensive representation in criminal matters. It serves Chattanooga, TN, with $200 to $450 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are longer response times at times.

Pros

  • Attention to detail
  • Legal expertise

Cons

  • Longer response times at times
Best forComprehensive representation in criminal matters
Service areaChattanooga, TN
Typical pricing$200 to $450 per hour
9

Davis & Hoss, PC

★★★★★4.7(137 reviews)
82Score

Davis & Hoss, PC has a 4.7 rating from 137 reviews. Clients appreciate their professionalism and straightforward advice in legal matters. They are particularly effective for those looking for reliable representation. However, some clients mention that the firm can be less flexible with scheduling than desired. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is reliable representation in legal matters. It serves Chattanooga, TN, with $200 to $450 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are less flexible with scheduling.

Pros

  • Professionalism
  • Straightforward advice

Cons

  • Less flexible with scheduling
Best forReliable representation in legal matters
Service areaChattanooga, TN
Typical pricing$200 to $450 per hour
10

Donna Miller Attorney at Law has a 4.4 rating from 34 reviews. While clients appreciate her straightforward approach, her limited review count suggests a less established track record. She may be a good option for those seeking basic legal assistance, but potential clients should consider her experience level. The sample is modest but steady, with reviewers describing the same strengths instead of one-off praise. Most of what reviewers hire it for is basic legal assistance for minor cases. It serves Chattanooga, TN, with $150 to $350 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited review count and experience.

Pros

  • Straightforward approach
  • Basic legal assistance

Cons

  • Limited review count and experience
Best forBasic legal assistance for minor cases
Service areaChattanooga, TN
Typical pricing$150 to $350 per hour
Before you book

How to choose a criminal defense lawyer in Chattanooga

Selecting the right criminal defense lawyer is essential for navigating your legal challenges effectively. Here are key factors to consider when evaluating your options.

Review Ratings and Count

Look for lawyers with high ratings and a substantial number of reviews. High volume indicates reliability and client satisfaction.

Specialization and Experience

Consider the lawyer's experience in handling cases similar to yours. Specialized expertise can significantly impact your case.

Consultation Availability

Many lawyers offer free consultations. Use this opportunity to gauge their approach and see if they are a good fit for your needs.

What it costs

What criminal defense lawyers cost in Chattanooga

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Chattanooga can vary widely based on experience and the complexity of your case. Here’s a breakdown of typical pricing tiers.

Basic Representation$1,500 to $3,000 for straightforward cases such as misdemeanors.
Complex Cases$3,000 to $5,000 for more complicated cases involving felonies.
High-Stakes Defense$5,000 to $10,000 for serious charges or cases requiring extensive preparation.
Retainer FeesSome lawyers may charge retainers starting at $1,000, with hourly rates ranging from $150 to $400.

Frequently asked questions

How much does hiring a criminal defense lawyer cost in Chattanooga?

Hourly rates for criminal defense lawyers in Chattanooga typically range from $150 to $400, depending on the lawyer's experience and the complexity of the case.

What factors should I consider when choosing a criminal defense lawyer?

Look for a lawyer's experience in criminal defense, their reputation based on reviews, and their communication style. Ratings and the number of reviews can provide insight into their track record.

How often is this ranking updated?

We re-run the full analysis monthly with fresh review data. Last updated June 13, 2026.

Our verdict

For most Chattanooga residents: <strong>Best and Brock</strong>

Best and Brock leads with a stellar 4.9-star rating based on 747 reviews, showcasing their proven track record in criminal defense. Close behind, Stevie Phillips Law, PLLC also holds a 4.9 rating but with fewer reviews, indicating strong client satisfaction but less extensive experience. Houston & Underwood, PLLC rounds out the top three, holding a solid 4.9 stars from 167 reviews, reflecting consistent service quality. For the best mix of experience and client feedback, Best and Brock is the clear choice.