Domestic Assault Attorney
A domestic assault charge moves quickly — arrest, a mandatory holding period, and often a no-contact order, all before the underlying facts are ever fully examined. At DeVore Law, PLLC, domestic assault charges are handled exclusively by Devin S. DeVore, who represents clients throughout Knoxville and East Tennessee from arrest through resolution.
Because these cases carry escalating penalties for repeat charges, how the first charge is handled can shape the client’s exposure for years afterward.
Domestic Assault in Tennessee — What You Need to Know
Domestic assault applies the general assault statute to victims in a qualifying relationship — spouses, former spouses, dating partners, roommates, and other household or family members. A first offense is generally charged as a Class A misdemeanor.
Penalties escalate sharply for repeat convictions. A second conviction carries a fine of $350 to $3,500 and 30 days to 11 months and 29 days in jail. A third or subsequent conviction carries a fine of $1,100 to $5,000 and 90 days to 11 months and 29 days in jail.
Where strangulation or attempted strangulation is involved, a conviction carries a mandatory minimum of 30 days, including participation in evidence-based domestic violence programming. Every conviction also carries a $10 electronic monitoring indigency fee. Because these charges typically involve a period of mandatory custody after arrest, and often an accompanying order of protection, the practical stakes begin well before the case ever reaches court.
How DeVore Law, PLLC Can Help
The Domestic Assault Case Timeline
Here is how a typical case moves through the system:
Domestic Assault Penalties by Offense
First Offense
Generally a Class A misdemeanor, with sentencing that reflects the specific facts of the incident.
Second Offense
Carries a mandatory 30 days to 11 months and 29 days, with fines from $350 to $3,500.
Third or Subsequent Offense
Carries a mandatory 90 days to 11 months and 29 days, with fines from $1,100 to $5,000, and heightened long-term consequences.
Common Areas of Focus
The Qualifying Relationship
Domestic assault requires a specific relationship between the parties, and whether that relationship legally qualifies is sometimes contested.
Mutual Combat and Self-Defense
Many domestic incidents involve conduct from both parties, which can support a self-defense claim depending on the facts.
Strangulation Allegations
These allegations carry a mandatory minimum sentence and require particularly careful review of the medical and physical evidence.
Orders of Protection
A related order of protection often runs on a separate track from the criminal case and needs to be coordinated carefully.
What to Expect — The Defense Process
While each case differs, most Knoxville domestic assault cases follow these general stages:
01
Case Review
We review the arrest report, any 911 call, and injury documentation immediately after arrest.
02
Bond and Protective Order Coordination
We address bond conditions and any related order of protection alongside the criminal case.
03
Negotiation
We work toward diversion or a reduced resolution where the facts and the client’s record support it.
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 Domestic Assault Case
Domestic 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 arrest through trial
Membership in the Tennessee and Knoxville Bar Associations
Experience coordinating criminal cases with related protective orders
Discretion in handling sensitive family matters
His approach combines direct courtroom experience with practical, realistic guidance for every client.
Speak With a Knoxville Domestic Assault Attorney
If you’ve been charged with domestic assault, Devin DeVore can help you understand the charges and any related protective order.
Contact DeVore Law, PLLC to schedule a consultation.