Tennessee Evading Arrest Attorneys

Knoxville Evading Arrest Criminal Defense Lawyers

Evading arrest in Tennessee is a serious crime, and most of the time it accompanies another criminal charge. Evading arrest can be a misdemeanor or a felony under Tennessee law. You could be charged with either felony evading arrest or misdemeanor evading arrest depending on how the defendant attempts to flee.

With years of criminal defense experience, we can help you understand the complex legal issues that arise when charged with this crime. Through diligent and thorough research and investigation, we have often found weaknesses and inconsistencies in the government's case against our clients. Our dynamic criminal defense lawyers have successfully handled evading arrest cases and will do everything in our power to defend your rights and worktoward the best possible outcome.

Misdemeanor Evading Arrest in Tennessee

T.C.A. ยง 39-16-603 states that any person who commits the offense of fleeing from or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer while operating a motor vehicle, is guilty of a crime. To be found guilty of this offense, the state must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the following elements exist:

• The defendant was operating a motor vehicle on a street, road, alley or highway in Tennessee; and
• That while the defendant was operating such vehicle, he or she received a signal from the law enforcement officer to bring the vehicle to a stop; and
• After receiving the signal, the defendant fled from or attempted to elude the law enforcement officer; and
• The defendant acted intentionally.

Felony Evading Arrest in Tennessee

Evading arrest could become a felony if the defendant's flight created a risk of death to innocent bystanders or other third parties or the law enforcement officers involved in the pursuit. In this statute "law enforcement officer" means an officer, employee or agent of government who has a duty imposed by law to maintain public order, make arrests for offenses, or investigate the commission of suspected commission of these offenses.

It is possible to present a defense for this offense by asserting that the attempted arrest was unlawful. If evidence to support that defense is introduced, then the prosecution has the burden of proving beyond a reasonable doubt that the attempted arrest was lawful.

Penalties for Evading Arrest in Tennessee

In Tennessee, felony evading arrest is a Class E felony. If the attempt to flee or elude creates a risk of death or injury to others, it is a Class D felony.

If you have been accused of evading arrest in Tennessee, please contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at Baker Associates for a free consultation. Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or felony, skilled legal representation is a must. Our criminal defense lawyers defend clients for everything from traffic citations to complicated felony matters in the East Tennessee area.

To schedule a complimentary evaluation with a criminal defense lawyer at our office serving Pigeon Forge, Knoxville, and Sevierville, complete the form below.

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Knox County
2126 First Tennessee Plaza
800 South Gay Street
Knoxville, Tennessee 37929
Phone: 865-521-0001

Sevier County
121 Court Avenue
Sevierville, Tennessee 37862
Phone: 865-428-2888

Washington County
300 East Main Street
Johnson City, Tennessee 37601