G. Chance Harrison, Attorney At LawG. Chance Harrison, Attorney At Law2026-04-17T16:22:38Zhttps://www.gchknoxlaw.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1504471/2025/04/cropped-OG-Image-32x32.pngOn Behalf of G. Chance Harrison, Attorney At Law<![CDATA[Can you remove a criminal conviction from your record in Tennessee?]]>https://www.gchknoxlaw.com/?p=472792026-01-26T15:14:24Z2026-01-26T15:14:24ZWho is eligible?
Tennessee’s expungement laws have expanded significantly over the last several years, making it possible for more people than ever before to clear their records. Under state law, you may qualify for an expungement if you meet these criteria:
Dismissals: The court dismissed your charges, or a jury found you not guilty.
Specific convictions: You have a conviction for a misdemeanor or a Class C, D or E felony specifically included on the state’s eligibility list.
Multiple charges: You are seeking to clear two qualifying convictions, as the law now allows certain individuals with one felony and one misdemeanor to apply.
Diversion: You successfully completed a judicial or pretrial program.
Eligibility depends strictly on the specific code section of your conviction and whether you have completed all terms of your sentence. Most eligible misdemeanors and Class E felonies require a five-year waiting period, while certain Class C and D felonies require you to wait 10 years.
Filing a petition with the court
To clear your record, you must file a petition in the court that handled your case, such as the Knox County General Sessions or Criminal Court. You must pay all court costs, fines, and restitution before the process can begin. Once a judge approves the request and the order is processed, the state removes the charge from public view.
The process restores you to your "pre-arrest" status. For most private employers, you can legally state that the incident never happened. However, keep in mind that some federal agencies or specialized professional licensing boards may still require disclosure of expunged records.
Why skilled legal guidance is crucial
Tennessee’s record-clearing laws are lengthy and complex. A single mistake on your petition can lead to a denial, and because the law often limits how many times you can apply for conviction expungement, you want to get it right the first time.
A skilled criminal defense lawyer is crucial for determining if you qualify for expungement. Your attorney helps you complete the paperwork correctly and coordinates with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the district attorney to ensure the court fully restores your legal status, giving you a fresh start.]]>On Behalf of G. Chance Harrison, Attorney At Law<![CDATA[BBQs, picnics, and DUIs? 3 tips to avoid a stop this summer.]]>https://www.gchknoxlaw.com/?p=466502024-06-10T20:33:12Z2024-06-10T20:33:12Z#1: Consider a “mocktail”
Going out and having a drink with friends is a social experience. It is deeply ingrained in our culture and passing up on a beer or drink is not always easy. Yet — there is a growing trend throughout the country. This rise of the mocktail has taken root in more than just the beer industry. Non-alcoholic options are available for most cocktails. Consider giving one a try when you must drive after attending these types of events.
#2: Carpool or use an Uber
Another option is to use an Uber or a taxi. This way you can get a ride while not having to worry about watching how much you imbibe during the party. If you are trying to keep to a budget or simply prefer to avoid this additional cost, consider setting up a designated driver with a group of friends and carpool. You can rotate which friend drives so each member of the group can get an opportunity to enjoy an evening out without the responsibility of driving afterwards.
#3: Walk
Cheap, easy, and a great alternative if the event is relatively close to home, few options beat out taking a stroll. Walking to and from an event, when possible, can be a great alternative to getting behind the wheel after having alcohol.
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI) in Tennessee can come with steep penalties. Using one of the options above can reduce this risk and help to better ensure your summer is filled with fun and laughter, not frustration and the need to navigate criminal charges.]]>On Behalf of G. Chance Harrison, Attorney At Law<![CDATA[Welcome To The Blog Post]]>https://www.gchknoxlaw.com/?p=464702023-06-21T16:27:31Z2022-05-07T13:25:22Z