Criminal Defense Lawyer · Nashville, TN/Updated June 13, 2026
The Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Nashville, TN
Finding the right criminal defense lawyer can make all the difference. Here are Nashville's top picks based on ratings and reviews.
MHMaya Hendricks · Home Services Editor Updated June 13, 2026 · Next review July 2026
Editorially independent10 companies evaluated
cover story
★ Editor's ChoiceAndrew C. Beasley, PLLC
95Score
Latest update · June 13, 2026: Initial ranking published. 10 Nashville-metro criminal defense lawyer businesses evaluated, top 10 ranked by Vetted Score.
Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer is critical when facing legal challenges. In Nashville, where the legal landscape is competitive, having a skilled attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
We evaluated a range of criminal defense lawyers in the Nashville area, considering client reviews, ratings, and overall reputation. Our list reflects those who consistently provide exceptional service and satisfactory results.
10criminal defense lawyers evaluated in Nashville
4.85average rating across the field
1.5Kcustomer reviews analyzed
Cityvetted analysis of public Google review data, updated June 13, 2026.
Ladner Criminal Defense & DUI Lawyer Nashville holds a perfect rating of 5 from 118 reviews, with clients praising their aggressive defense strategies and thorough case preparation.
To determine our rankings, we analyzed data from multiple sources, focusing on lawyer ratings, client feedback, and the number of reviews. Each lawyer was assessed based on their expertise, communication skills, and success rates.
Our rankings are updated monthly to ensure accuracy and relevance. No business pays for placement, guaranteeing an impartial evaluation of Nashville's best criminal defense lawyers.
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.
With a remarkable rating of 4.9 from 452 reviews, Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC, is highly praised for his dedication and thorough approach to criminal defense. Clients commend his ability to explain complex legal concepts clearly, making him ideal for those facing serious charges. However, his busy schedule can sometimes lead to delayed responses.
Ridings Law Group, P.C. boasts a perfect rating of 5 from 129 reviews, highlighting their commitment to client care and effective representation. Reviewers appreciate their personalized approach and strong advocacy in court. While they are known for reasonable fees, their availability may be limited due to high demand. 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 affordable representation. It serves Nashville area, with $100 to $300 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited availability and small firm may have fewer resources.
Ladner Criminal Defense & DUI Lawyer Nashville holds a perfect rating of 5 from 118 reviews, with clients praising their aggressive defense strategies and thorough case preparation. Best known for handling DUI cases, they provide strong support throughout the legal process. However, some clients report difficulty in reaching them during peak hours.
With a 4.9 rating from 107 reviews, Byron Pugh Legal is recognized for their thoroughness and dedication to client success. Clients appreciate their strategic planning and courtroom experience, making them suitable for those facing complex legal issues. However, some clients noted that the process can be slow at times due to thorough preparation.
Nashville Criminal Defense Attorney PNC Law has earned a 4.8 rating from 156 reviews, with clients appreciating their aggressive defense tactics and compassionate approach. They excel in providing support for various criminal cases, though some clients wish for more frequent updates during the legal process. 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 diverse criminal cases. It serves Nashville and nearby locations, with $150 to $400 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are desire for more frequent updates and may charge higher fees.
With a solid rating of 4.8 from 150 reviews, the Law Office of Bernie McEvoy is praised for their expertise in navigating legal complexities. Clients highlight their responsiveness and attention to detail, making them a good choice for those needing thorough legal representation. However, some clients mention higher costs compared to other firms.
Michael & Associates stands out with a perfect rating of 5 from 51 reviews, known for their personalized service and commitment to clients. They are particularly effective for individuals seeking tailored defense strategies. However, the limited number of reviews makes their reputation promising but unproven compared to more established firms.
The Law Offices of Amanda J. Gentry has a strong rating of 4.8 from 104 reviews, with clients appreciating their thorough preparation and advocacy. They are well-suited for clients who need a dedicated advocate in court. However, some clients have expressed concerns about communication 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 dedicated advocacy. It serves Nashville and nearby areas, with $150 to $400 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are communication issues during busy times and may charge higher fees.
NASH LAW has a solid rating of 4.7 from 155 reviews, recognized for their strong client relationships and effective representation. They are particularly effective in various criminal cases. However, some clients have noted that response times can vary significantly, which may be frustrating. 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 a wide range of criminal cases. It serves Nashville and surrounding areas, with $150 to $400 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are variable response times and limited resources compared to larger firms.
May & McKinney, PLLC, holds a rating of 4.6 from 117 reviews, noted for their approachable demeanor and commitment to clients. They provide solid representation in a variety of criminal matters. However, some clients feel that they may not have the same level of experience as higher-rated firms. 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 approachable representation. It serves Nashville area, with $150 to $350 per hour pricing, and the honest trade-offs are less experience compared to top firms and mixed reviews on responsiveness.
How to choose a criminal defense lawyer in Nashville
Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer involves careful consideration of various factors. Here are key points to help you make an informed decision.
Experience
Look for a lawyer with a proven track record in criminal defense cases similar to yours.
Client Reviews
Read reviews and testimonials to gauge client satisfaction and success rates.
Communication Skills
Choose a lawyer who communicates clearly and promptly to keep you informed throughout the process.
Fees and Costs
Understand the fee structure and ensure it fits your budget before committing.
What it costs
What criminal defense lawyers cost in Nashville
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Nashville can vary widely based on experience and case complexity. Here’s a general breakdown of what you might expect to pay.
Consultation Fees$100 to $300 for an initial consultation, depending on the lawyer's experience.
Hourly Rates$150 to $500 per hour, based on the lawyer's reputation and case complexity.
Flat Fees$1,500 to $10,000 for specific cases, such as DUI or misdemeanor charges.
RetainersSome lawyers may require a retainer fee ranging from $2,000 to $15,000 for more serious charges.
Frequently asked questions
How much does criminal defense lawyer cost in Nashville?
Criminal defense lawyer fees in Nashville typically range from $100 to $500 per hour, depending on experience and case complexity.
What should I look for in a criminal defense lawyer?
Look for experience, strong client reviews, good communication skills, and a fee structure that fits your budget.
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 Nashville homes: Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC
In the competitive field of criminal defense, Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC stands out as our Editor's Choice for his exceptional client service and success rate. Ridings Law Group, P.C. offers great value with a perfect rating and personalized care, while Ladner Criminal Defense & DUI Lawyer Nashville excels in DUI cases, making them a top contender in Nashville's legal arena.