Assault Attorney
Assault charges range from a misdemeanor built on a single moment of contact to a serious felony involving a weapon or injury, and the gap between those outcomes often comes down to how the incident is investigated and charged. At DeVore Law, PLLC, assault charges are handled exclusively by Devin S. DeVore, who represents clients throughout Knoxville and East Tennessee.
Understanding exactly which version of the statute a client is charged under is the first step to building the right defense.
Assault in Tennessee — What You Need to Know
Simple assault under Tennessee law covers intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury; intentionally or knowingly causing another to reasonably fear imminent bodily injury; or intentionally or knowingly causing physical contact a reasonable person would regard as offensive. The first two are Class A misdemeanors, punishable by up to a year in jail and fines up to $2,500; the offensive-contact provision is a Class B misdemeanor, carrying up to six months and a $500 fine.
Aggravated assault applies when an assault results in serious bodily injury or death, involves the use or display of a deadly weapon, or involves strangulation. Aggravated assault is typically charged as a Class C or Class D felony, carrying three to fifteen years or two to twelve years respectively, with fines up to $15,000.
How DeVore Law, PLLC Can Help
Divorce impacts more than legal status — it affects your daily life, your children, and your financial stability. Your attorney should offer clear guidance, informed strategy, and steady advocacy. Sarah Easter brings local court experience and direct attorney access to every case.
The Assault Case Timeline
Assault Classifications
When minor children are involved, Knoxville courts require a detailed Permanent Parenting Plan. All decisions are governed by the “best interests of the child” standard under Tennessee law.
Simple Assault
A Class A or Class B misdemeanor depending on the specific conduct, carrying up to a year in jail.
Aggravated Assault
A Class C or D felony when serious injury, death, a deadly weapon, or strangulation is involved, carrying two to fifteen years.
Enhancement Factors
Prior convictions, the identity of the victim, and the setting of the incident can all increase the classification or sentencing range.
Common Areas of Focus
Even when no children are involved, divorce requires careful planning around spousal support and property division.
Self-Defense
Tennessee law recognizes the right to use reasonable force to defend oneself or others, and this is often the central issue in an assault case.
Injury Classification
Whether an injury meets the legal definition of “serious bodily injury” directly determines whether a charge is simple or aggravated assault.
Weapon and Strangulation Allegations
These specific enhancements carry the heaviest penalties and require the most careful factual review.
Witness Statements
Assault cases frequently turn on conflicting accounts, and inconsistencies between statements and evidence matter.
What to Expect — The Defense Process
While each case differs, most Knoxville divorces follow these general stages:
01
Case Review
We review the arrest report, medical records, and witness statements to understand exactly what the state can prove.
02
Evidence Development
We gather evidence supporting self-defense, disputed injury classification, or witness inconsistencies.
03
Negotiation
Where appropriate, we negotiate a reduction in the charge or diversion.
04
Trial
If the case doesn’t resolve favorably, Devin is fully prepared to try the case before a judge or jury.
Why Work With Devin DeVore for Your Assault Case
Assault defense at DeVore Law, PLLC is not delegated between attorneys. Devin DeVore personally handles every case, offering:
Direct access to your attorney
Personal handling of every case, from arraignment through trial
Membership in the Tennessee and Knoxville Bar Associations
Public Defender Externship experience with serious criminal matters
Straightforward advice on realistic outcomes
Speak With an Assault Attorney
If you’ve been charged with assault, Devin DeVore can review the evidence and help you understand your defense options.
Contact DeVore Law, PLLC to schedule a consultation.