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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.

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.

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

Our top picks

At a glance · three categories
Editor's Choice
95Score

Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC

★★★★★4.9(452 reviews)

With a remarkable rating of 4.9 from 452 reviews, Andrew C.

Read full review
Best Value
94Score

Ridings Law Group, P.C.

★★★★★5.0(129 reviews)

Ridings Law Group, P.C.

Read full review
Most Reviewed
93Score

Ladner Criminal Defense & DUI Lawyer Nashville

★★★★★5.0(118 reviews)

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.

Read full review

All 10, compared

Data as of June 13, 2026
BusinessVetted ScoreGoogle ratingReviewsBest for
1
95Score
4.9★★★★★
452Serious criminal charges
2
94Score
5.0★★★★★
129Affordable representation
3
93Score
5.0★★★★★
118DUI defense
4
92Score
4.9★★★★★
107Complex legal issues
5
90Score
4.8★★★★★
156Diverse criminal cases
6
89Score
4.8★★★★★
150Navigating legal complexities
7
88Score
5.0★★★★★
51Tailored defense strategies
8
87Score
4.8★★★★★
104Dedicated advocacy
9
85Score
4.7★★★★★
155A wide range of criminal cases
10
82Score
4.6★★★★★
117Approachable representation
Methodology

How we evaluated all 10 criminal defense lawyers.

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.

Full reviews

The rankings · in order
1
★ Editor's Choice

Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC

★★★★★4.9(452 reviews)
95Score

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.

Pros

  • High client satisfaction
  • Clear communication
  • Strong legal expertise

Cons

  • Busy schedule may delay responses
  • Higher fees for premium service
Best forSerious criminal charges
Service areaNashville and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
2
Best Value

Ridings Law Group, P.C.

★★★★★5.0(129 reviews)
94Score

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.

Pros

  • Excellent client relationships
  • Affordable fees
  • Strong courtroom presence

Cons

  • Limited availability
  • Small firm may have fewer resources
Best forAffordable representation
Service areaNashville area
Typical pricing$100 to $300 per hour
3
Most Reviewed

Ladner Criminal Defense & DUI Lawyer Nashville

★★★★★5.0(118 reviews)
93Score

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.

Pros

  • Aggressive defense strategies
  • Thorough case preparation
  • Strong support during cases

Cons

  • Hard to reach during busy times
  • Limited focus on other types of cases
Best forDUI defense
Service areaNashville and nearby regions
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
4

Byron Pugh Legal

★★★★★4.9(107 reviews)
92Score

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.

Pros

  • Thorough legal strategies
  • Experienced in court
  • Strong client dedication

Cons

  • Slow process due to thoroughness
  • May have higher fees
Best forComplex legal issues
Service areaNashville and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$200 to $500 per hour
5

Nashville Criminal Defense Attorney PNC Law

★★★★★4.8(156 reviews)
90Score

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.

Pros

  • Aggressive defense tactics
  • Compassionate client care
  • Wide range of case types

Cons

  • Desire for more frequent updates
  • May charge higher fees
Best forDiverse criminal cases
Service areaNashville and nearby locations
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
6

Law Office of Bernie McEvoy

★★★★★4.8(150 reviews)
89Score

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.

Pros

  • Expertise in legal complexities
  • Responsive communication
  • Attention to detail

Cons

  • Higher costs than some competitors
  • Limited availability
Best forNavigating legal complexities
Service areaNashville area
Typical pricing$200 to $500 per hour
7

Michael & Associates

★★★★★5.0(51 reviews)
88Score

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.

Pros

  • Personalized service
  • Strong client commitment
  • Tailored defense strategies

Cons

  • Limited number of reviews
  • Less established compared to larger firms
Best forTailored defense strategies
Service areaNashville and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$150 to $350 per hour
8

Law Offices of Amanda J. Gentry

★★★★★4.8(104 reviews)
87Score

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.

Pros

  • Thorough preparation
  • Strong advocacy
  • Client-focused approach

Cons

  • Communication issues during busy times
  • May charge higher fees
Best forDedicated advocacy
Service areaNashville and nearby areas
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
9

NASH LAW

★★★★★4.7(155 reviews)
85Score

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.

Pros

  • Strong client relationships
  • Effective representation
  • Wide range of case types

Cons

  • Variable response times
  • Limited resources compared to larger firms
Best forA wide range of criminal cases
Service areaNashville and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
10

May & McKinney, PLLC

★★★★★4.6(117 reviews)
82Score

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.

Pros

  • Approachable demeanor
  • Client commitment
  • Diverse case handling

Cons

  • Less experience compared to top firms
  • Mixed reviews on responsiveness
Best forApproachable representation
Service areaNashville area
Typical pricing$150 to $350 per hour
Before you book

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.