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Employment Lawyer · Knoxville, TN/Updated June 13, 2026

The Best Employment Lawyers in Knoxville, TN

Navigating employment law can be daunting, but these top attorneys in Knoxville are here to help you find justice.

Editorially independent8 companies evaluated
cover story
★ Editor's ChoiceVolunteer Law Firm
96Score
Latest update · June 13, 2026: Initial ranking published. 8 Knoxville-metro employment lawyer businesses evaluated, top 8 ranked by Vetted Score.

Finding the right employment lawyer in Knoxville is essential for ensuring your rights are protected in the workplace. Whether you’re facing discrimination, wrongful termination, or wage disputes, having a skilled attorney can make all the difference in your case.

We evaluated eight local employment law firms based on customer ratings and reviews, focusing on their track records for client satisfaction and successful outcomes. This list reflects the current landscape of employment law representation in Knoxville, ensuring you have access to the best legal support available.

8employment lawyers evaluated in Knoxville
4.66average rating across the field
353customer reviews analyzed

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

How much does employment lawyer cost in Knoxville? See the price breakdown →

Our top picks

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

Volunteer Law Firm

★★★★★4.9(49 reviews)

With a stellar rating of 4.9 from 49 reviews, Volunteer Law Firm excels in providing compassionate and effective legal representation.

Read full review
Most Reviewed
93Score

The Burkhalter Law Firm, P.C.

★★★★★4.7(106 reviews)

The Burkhalter Law Firm, P.C.

Read full review
Top Pick
91Score

Fisher Russell PLLC

★★★★★4.7(46 reviews)

Fisher Russell PLLC boasts a rating of 4.7 from 46 reviews, reflecting a strong commitment to client advocacy.

Read full review

All 8, compared

Data as of June 13, 2026
BusinessVetted ScoreGoogle ratingReviewsBest for
1
Volunteer Law Firm
Volunteer Law Firm
Editor's Choice
96Score
4.9★★★★★
49Discrimination cases
2
93Score
4.7★★★★★
106Wrongful termination cases
3
91Score
4.7★★★★★
46Contract disputes
4
89Score
4.6★★★★★
37Workplace harassment cases
5
88Score
4.7★★★★★
15Workplace rights advice
6
85Score
5.0★★★★★
7Personalized service
7
82Score
4.4★★★★★
66Unemployment claims guidance
8
78Score
4.3★★★★★
27Wage disputes
Methodology

How we evaluated all 8 employment lawyers.

To create this ranking, we analyzed client feedback, star ratings, and the number of reviews for each firm. Our aim was to highlight those with a strong reputation and proven results in employment law cases. We do not accept payment for placement, ensuring an unbiased selection process.

Our data is refreshed monthly to reflect the latest reviews and ratings, providing you with the most accurate and up-to-date information. The last update was on June 13, 2026, ensuring you can trust the rankings presented here.

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

Volunteer Law Firm

★★★★★4.9(49 reviews)
96Score

With a stellar rating of 4.9 from 49 reviews, Volunteer Law Firm excels in providing compassionate and effective legal representation. Clients appreciate the firm's dedication to their cases and the personalized attention they receive. They are especially noted for their success in handling discrimination cases. One caveat is their limited availability due to high demand, so early contact is advisable.

Pros

  • High client satisfaction
  • Strong focus on discrimination cases
  • Personalized service

Cons

  • Limited availability
  • High demand for services
Best forDiscrimination cases
Service areaKnoxville and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
2
Most Reviewed

The Burkhalter Law Firm, P.C.

★★★★★4.7(106 reviews)
93Score

The Burkhalter Law Firm, P.C. holds a solid rating of 4.7 based on 106 reviews, indicating a strong reputation in the community. Clients commend their thorough approach and effective communication throughout the legal process. They are particularly well-known for handling wrongful termination cases. However, some clients have noted longer wait times for responses during peak periods.

Pros

  • Highly rated for communication
  • Extensive experience
  • Diverse case handling

Cons

  • Response times can vary
  • Some reviews mention high fees
Best forWrongful termination cases
Service areaKnoxville and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
3

Fisher Russell PLLC

★★★★★4.7(46 reviews)
91Score

Fisher Russell PLLC boasts a rating of 4.7 from 46 reviews, reflecting a strong commitment to client advocacy. Reviewers often highlight their expertise in employment contracts and negotiation. They are best suited for those seeking assistance with contract disputes. A downside is their smaller review base, which may indicate less visibility compared to larger firms.

Pros

  • Expertise in employment contracts
  • Client-focused approach
  • Good negotiation skills

Cons

  • Smaller review base
  • Less visibility in the community
Best forContract disputes
Service areaKnoxville and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
4

Bernstein, Stair & McAdams LLP

★★★★★4.6(37 reviews)
89Score

With a rating of 4.6 from 37 reviews, Bernstein, Stair & McAdams LLP is recognized for their knowledgeable attorneys and thorough case evaluations. Clients appreciate their strategic approach to complex employment issues. They are particularly adept at handling workplace harassment cases. However, some clients have expressed concerns about the firm's billing practices being unclear.

Pros

  • Knowledgeable attorneys
  • Strategic case handling
  • Good for complex issues

Cons

  • Billing practices can be unclear
  • Limited client interaction reported
Best forWorkplace harassment cases
Service areaKnoxville and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
5

Heather G. Anderson

★★★★★4.7(15 reviews)
88Score

Heather G. Anderson has earned a rating of 4.7 from 15 reviews, showcasing her commitment to her clients. She is praised for her empathetic approach and thorough understanding of employment law. Clients often seek her out for advice on workplace rights. A notable drawback is her relatively thin review base, which leaves her reputation somewhat unproven.

Pros

  • Empathetic approach
  • Thorough understanding of employment law
  • Good advice on workplace rights

Cons

  • Thin review base
  • Less visibility compared to larger firms
Best forWorkplace rights advice
Service areaKnoxville and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
6

Henson Employment Law Firm PLLC

★★★★★5.0(7 reviews)
85Score

Henson Employment Law Firm PLLC stands out with a perfect rating of 5.0 from just 7 reviews, reflecting a promising start for this newer firm. Clients appreciate the personalized attention and dedication to their cases. They are best for individuals seeking a fresh perspective in employment law. However, the very thin review base leaves their long-term reputation unproven.

Pros

  • Perfect rating
  • Personalized service
  • Dedicated representation

Cons

  • Very thin review base
  • Limited case history
Best forPersonalized service
Service areaKnoxville and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
7

East Tennessee Employment Law

★★★★★4.4(66 reviews)
82Score

East Tennessee Employment Law holds a rating of 4.4 from 66 reviews, indicating a solid presence in the community. Clients commend their responsiveness and practical advice on employment issues. They are particularly noted for guiding clients through the complexities of unemployment claims. A caveat is that some clients have mentioned inconsistent communication during busy periods.

Pros

  • Responsive service
  • Practical advice
  • Good for unemployment claims

Cons

  • Inconsistent communication reported
  • Less focus on complex cases
Best forUnemployment claims guidance
Service areaKnoxville and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
8

Law Office of James W. Friauf

★★★★★4.3(27 reviews)
78Score

The Law Office of James W. Friauf has a rating of 4.3 from 27 reviews, providing clients with a range of employment law services. Reviewers appreciate his thoroughness and ability to explain complex legal jargon. He is best known for his work in wage disputes. However, some clients have reported delays in case handling and communication.

Pros

  • Thorough service
  • Good at explaining legal terms
  • Diverse service offerings

Cons

  • Delays reported
  • Communication issues noted
Best forWage disputes
Service areaKnoxville and surrounding areas
Typical pricing$150 to $400 per hour
Before you book

How to choose an employment lawyer in Knoxville

Selecting the right employment lawyer involves considering several factors that can impact your case's outcome. Here are key points to keep in mind.

Experience in Employment Law

Look for lawyers who specialize in employment law and have a track record of handling cases similar to yours.

Client Reviews

Read client reviews to gauge satisfaction and the lawyer's ability to communicate effectively and advocate for their clients.

Consultation Availability

Choose a lawyer who offers a consultation to discuss your case without obligation, allowing you to assess their approach.

Fee Structure

Inquire about the fee structure upfront, including whether they work on a contingency basis or charge hourly rates.

What it costs

What employment lawyers cost in Knoxville

The cost of hiring an employment lawyer in Knoxville can vary based on experience and case complexity. Here’s a breakdown of typical pricing structures you might encounter.

Hourly Rate$150 to $400 per hour, depending on the lawyer's experience and location.
Flat FeesSome lawyers may charge flat fees for specific services, ranging from $500 to $2,500.
Contingency FeesMany employment lawyers work on a contingency basis, taking a percentage (typically 25% to 40%) of any settlement or award.
Consultation FeesInitial consultations may be free or range from $100 to $300.

Frequently asked questions

How much does employment law cost in Knoxville?

Employment lawyer fees in Knoxville typically range from $150 to $400 per hour, depending on the lawyer's experience and the case complexity.

What should I look for in an employment lawyer?

Consider their experience, client reviews, availability for consultation, and fee structure.

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 Knoxville homes: Editor's Choice Volunteer Law Firm

For those seeking the best employment lawyers in Knoxville, Volunteer Law Firm stands out for its exceptional client satisfaction and personalized attention. Following closely are The Burkhalter Law Firm, P.C. with its extensive experience and high number of reviews, and Fisher Russell PLLC known for its expertise in contract disputes.