Sam AlvarezMy family became way too obsessed with the hit series How to Get Away with Murder, and suddenly my cousins were delivering full Annalise Keating monologues in the living room, as if it were their big courtroom debut.
It was hilarious, but it also made us wonder who the real legal powerhouses are here in Nashville.
Once we started digging, we kept hearing the same names—defense lawyers know for sharp strategy, quick thinking, and the kind of confidence that can flip a courtroom. Their reputations weren’t hype because locals had stories to prove it.
So we pulled everything together to highlight the best of the best! Keep reading and meet the Nashville defense lawyers who can win minds, cases, and any courtroom they step into.
How much does a criminal defense lawyer in Nashville cost?
In Nashville, criminal defense lawyers typically charge flat fees ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 for misdemeanors and $5,000 to $25,000 for felonies. If paying hourly, rates generally fall between $200 and $450 per hour, depending on the attorney’s experience and case complexity.
1. Ridings Law Group, P.C.
Address: 211 Union St Suite 205
Phone: +16158511888
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Riding Law Group left a strong impression after digging through their background and client experiences. The firm’s long track record—over three decades of work in criminal defense paired with law-enforcement and prosecutorial experience—shows in how they approach each case.
Many former clients described the process as steady, direct, and surprisingly grounding during high-stress situations. The team is known for breaking down charges so you know exactly what you’re walking into.
However, their rates lean above the local average, which might give you pause if you’re watching every dollar while trying to sort out a legal issue.
Even so, they are very reliable. Their communication habits, including regular updates, clear expectations, and timely follow-up, are very notable.
If you’re facing criminal charges and want someone with deep courtroom mileage and a straightforward approach, this firm is worth considering!
We achieved the best possible outcome
“I can’t thank David Riding enough for his outstanding work. From the very beginning, he took the time to explain every step of the process, answered all my questions, and made sure I felt supported the entire way through. He’s extremely knowledgeable and experienced. He definitely achieved the best possible outcome for my case. I truly felt like he genuinely cared for my case and wanted nothing but success for me. If you need a defense attorney who genuinely cares and delivers results, I highly recommend David Riding. Of course he gets 5 stars!”
Carlos Silva, Google Review
Incredible resourceful and talented
“David isn’t only an incredibly resourceful and talented attorney, he’s also a man of integrity. I feel like that is an important factor to consider in hiring someone to represent you in a legal matter. Mr. Ridings is prompt in his communication with you, and diligent about never leaving you in the dark about the status of your case. He will certainly fight for you for the best outcome possible. There are a few good attorneys in Nashville, but do yourself a favor and choose Mr. Ridings. Thanks for reading.”
Jaclyn Salgado, Google Review
2. Will Tippens Law
Address: 818 Woodland St
Phone: +16157459846
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
A missing social media presence was the first thing that stood out while researching Will Tippens Law, especially since most Nashville firms stay active online. That gap might make you feel like you need to dig a little harder for updates or background info.
Digging deeper, we found a practice built on direct communication and one-on-one case handling—something clients consistently highlight as rare these days. The firm’s approach is rooted in personal involvement.
You talk to your lawyer, not a rotating staff of associates, and that mattered to many folks navigating DUI charges, misdemeanors, and traffic cases.
Their feedback often mentioned how clearly the legal process was explained and how grounded they felt once they understood their options.
Moreover, the attorney’s long experience in Tennessee courts shows in how he handles negotiations and prepares a defense. If you value hands-on guidance from start to finish, this is the kind of setup you may appreciate.
Very skilled and committed lawyer
“I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome of my cases – From start to finish, Will demonstrated professionalism. He responded promptly, communicated clearly throughout the process, and went well above and beyond to ensure we obtained the result we set out to achieve. If you’re looking for an attorney who’s not only skilled but truly committed, I highly recommend Will.”
Tristan Jones, Google Review
An awesome team that’s always realistic with the possible outcomes
“He is awesome and was realistic with me about the possible outcomes for my case. I searched for other lawyers before him and they all pressured me into working with them and he didn’t do that. I appreciate the honesty because it’s hard to come by. I will refer all my family and friends to him if ever needed. He will be my lawyer again if there is ever a need.”
Natasha Joyner, Google Review
3. Law Office of Bryan Stephenson
Address: 2021 Richard Jones Rd # 150E
Phone: +16155155110
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 5 PM
Digging into the Law Office of Bryan Stephenson gave us a clearer picture of what people mean when they say Nashville has some real courtroom powerhouses. What caught our attention first was how many former clients described feeling heard.
Atty. Stephenson’s background as a former prosecutor came up again and again, especially from folks who didn’t know what to expect from the legal system. Talk to him, and he can translate all the legal process into plain language.
Furthermore, clients also shared how he prepared them for every step, whether their case involved a traffic charge or something heavier.
Several mentioned that he kept communication steady, never left them guessing, and approached their situation with both realism and compassion.
That combination seems to have earned him a solid reputation for fair, thorough representation that doesn’t rely on theatrics.
Take note that they are closed on weekends, which can limit availability during urgent moments.
They got every single one of the charges dismissed and permanently removed
“My husband was facing three charges, and Bryan Stephenson got every single one of them dismissed and permanently removed from his record. He was an outstanding lawyer—always responsive, professional, and genuinely caring. Whenever we needed him, he promptly answered every call and text. He truly made the entire process so much easier and less stressful”
Mallette Mallette, Google Review
Honest, reliable, and genuinely invested
“After a terrible experience with my first lawyer who mishandled my case, wasted my money, dragged me through trial, and then dropped me. I was left feeling frustrated and defeated. I contacted Bryan Stephenson. From the start, Bryan was honest, reliable, and genuinely invested in my case. He communicated clearly, answered every question I had, and never once left me in the dark. His dedication and “see it through” mentality led to the best possible outcome for my situation. If you’re looking for a lawyer in Nashville who will actually fight for you and not just take your money, I can’t recommend Bryan Stephenson enough.”
Chase Folmar, Google Review
4. Andrew C. Beasley, PLLC
Address: 818 Woodland St
Phone: +16152744009
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Looking into Andrew C. Beasley felt a bit like peeking behind the curtain of a courtroom—especially after hearing how many locals trusted him when things got serious.
We noted how often clients mentioned feeling genuinely heard. Several even described walking in with their nerves shot and walking out with a sense of what was ahead, thanks to the way the team breaks things down without making you feel confused.
That said, the one stumbling block we hit was the website being inaccessible, which isn’t ideal when you’re trying to learn the basics before picking up the phone. For a firm with a high caseload, everything from domestic violence cases to federal charges, you expect smoother access up front.
Still, the level of preparation people talked about was hard to ignore. Clients mentioned detailed reviews of evidence, constant communication, and honest conversations about outcomes, not empty promises.
Knowledgeable, informative, and respectful team
“Our Lawyer Cameron with this firm was outstanding. This lawyer group was quick to get us an appointment, very knowledgeable, informative, and respectful. From the moment we walked through the door it felt like they had our best interest. Throughout the whole process they kept us informed and never allowed us to caught off guard by anything. I would recommend Cameron and this firm to anyone. You will not be disappointed with the service they provide.”
Latasha Drinnon, Google Review
Nice to be informed the entire time
“The Law office of Andrew C. Beasley really helped me with my case. Dustin Dunham had my case and he kept me informed the entire time of how things would go and they went exactly how he said they would. Blessed to have had them through my situation. Best law firm in Nashville!”
Holden Claudio, Google Review
5. Ladner Criminal Defense & DUI Lawyer Nashville
Address: 501 Union St #414
Phone: +16292491541
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Knowing more about Ladner Criminal Defense felt like a bit of studying the rhythm of a busy shop where people walk in carrying all kinds of worries. What stood out first wasn’t flash or big claims—it was how often clients described leaving that first conversation feeling steadier than when they arrived.
Their clients mentioned that they break down charges in a way that helps you absorb what parts actually matter, which options are realistic, and how the timeline tends to play out in Davidson County. That practicality made an impression on us.
As we dug deeper, we kept hearing about their ability to handle tense situations without making clients feel judged. Clients dealing with DUIs, domestic-related charges, or complicated repeat issues said they appreciated how the lawyers asked thoughtful questions instead of rushing to conclusions.
Others praised how their team keeps communication consistent, especially during periods when court dates or negotiations drag on.
The only downside? Their website design needs to be updated and remove wide spaces that could be used for other important details.
Gone above and beyond to help
“Bo is a great lawyer and human being. He’s gone above and beyond to help us when needed. Very responsive, approachable, and helpful. Thankful for having him on our side! Better Know Bo!”
Linda Bitda, Google Review
Super helpful
“Great attorney, even greater man wasn’t even my attorney and helped out with the situation, all to just get me out of there and get me to where I need to be make sure I was good.And even helped me personally when he had no, obligation will definitely call him in the future.And recommend him to anybody.I come across”
Leadzy, Google Review
