how much is the average cost for an attorney in tennessee for a misdemeanor theft

by Merl Zboncak V 9 min read

A lawyer costs about $2,000 to $3,000 for a misdemeanor. According to Nolo, “ a defendant charged with a misdemeanor that goes to trial should not be surprised by a legal fee in the neighborhood of $2,000–$3,000; an attorney may want an advance of around $2,500, and $1,000 per day of trial in a felony case.”

If you face a misdemeanor charge and the lawyer charges a flat fee, expect to pay somewhere between $1,500-$3,500. If going to trial is a possibility, you can expect the fee to be between $3,000-$5,000.Mar 20, 2020

Full Answer

What are the penalties for theft in Tennessee?

Theft in Tennessee is graded by dollar amounts–$500, $1000, $10,000, and anything over $10,000. Theft $500 or less is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable up to 11 months and 29 days in jail. If a client is charged with shoplifting it is of the highest importance that they keep the charge off their record.

How much does a misdemeanor lawyer cost?

Aug 26, 2020 · An attorney who works on an hourly rate may also charge a retainer fee on top of their hourly legal fees. Taking all of these factors into account, the average cost of a criminal defense attorney for a misdemeanor ranges from $1,500 to $5,000, with lower-level, uncomplicated misdemeanors sitting at the bottom end of the spectrum.

How long do you go to jail for a misdemeanor in Tennessee?

Feb 08, 2017 · Generally speaking, misdemeanors fall into three categories: Classes A, B and C. Class A is the most serious, with fines up to $2500 and a potential jail sentence of up to 11 months and 29 days. Classes B and C mean up to 6 months or 30 days in jail, and between $50 and $500 in fines, respectively.

What is the fine for theft Class A misdemeanor?

Class A Misdemeanor Theft Theft constitutes a Class A misdemeanor if the stolen property (except for firearms) or services has a value of $1,000 or less. In such a case, the offender faces penalties of up to 11 months and 29 days of incarceration and a $2,500 fine.

How much does a criminal lawyer cost in Tennessee?

The typical lawyer in Tennessee charges between $74 and $324 per hour....How much do lawyers charge in Tennessee?Practice TypeAverage Hourly RateCriminal$148Elder Law$252Employment/Labor$288Family$23021 more rows

How much does it cost to hire an attorney?

On average, attorneys who charge on an hourly basis charge between $100 and $300 per hour. Attorneys involved in much higher-level, particularly complex or specialized work may charge as much as $1,000 per hour.Mar 30, 2021

What is the penalty for theft in Tennessee?

Theft constitutes a Class A misdemeanor if the stolen property (except for firearms) or services has a value of $1,000 or less. In such a case, the offender faces penalties of up to 11 months and 29 days of incarceration and a $2,500 fine.

How do I hire an attorney?

It's important to find a lawyer who has relevant experience with the legal area that you need. Take time to search for the right lawyer. Ask family, friends, or co-workers for recommendations. Check with your state and local bar associations.

What percentage does a lawyer get in a settlement case?

There is no average settlement, as each case is unique. Whatever the amount is, your law firm will charge you on a contingency fee basis. This means they will take a set percentage of your recovery, typically one third or 33.3%. There are rare instances where a free case is agreed to by the representing lawyers.

What is a Class A misdemeanor in TN?

Class A Misdemeanor – The most severe misdemeanor charge, offenses include DUI, simple possession, theft under $1,000, assault, and underage consumption, among others. Penalties can include up to eleven months and twenty-nine days in jail and maximum fines of $2,500.

Is it illegal to dine and dash in Tennessee?

Dine and dash is theft. Even if the amount of the meal is nominal, the same offender could be hitting restaurants all over the area and the police can stop them from continuing to rob restaurants. Gather as much information as possible to help the police in their investigation.Apr 23, 2021

What dollar amount is a felony in Tennessee?

Tennessee classifies theft of property or services as misdemeanors or felonies based on property value: Class A misdemeanor—theft valued at $500 or less. Class E felony—theft valued at more than $500 and less than $1,000. Class D felony—theft valued at $1,000 or more and less than $10,000.

Defining Theft Under Tennessee Law

Tennessee criminal statutes say that “a person commits theft of property if, with intent to deprive the owner of property, the person knowingly obt...

Classification and Penalties For Theft in Tennessee

As is the case in many states, Tennessee classifies theft offenses according to the value of the property or services involved in the offense. Let’...

Civil Penalties For Theft Under Tennessee Law

When a person commits theft from a store in Tennessee, and the district attorney does not object, the store owner or seller of the merchandise can...

Effect of Prior Convictions on Current Theft Charge in Tennessee

Tennessee statutes on theft do not specifically address the effect of prior convictions on a subsequent theft charge in Tennessee, but any criminal...

What is shoplifting in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, shoplifting is formally called Theft of Property $500 or less. Theft in Tennessee is graded by dollar amounts–$500, $1000, $10,000, and anything over $10,000. Theft $500 or less is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable up to 11 months and 29 days in jail.

How long is a judicial diversion?

Judicial diversion means going on probation for the entire length of the sentence—11 months and 29 days. During that time the client will have to pay monthly fees, as well as court costs and expungment fees, and probably complete community service and/or classes.

Who is Patrick Stegall?

Patrick Stegall is a Memphis shoplifting attorney . He handles shoplifting cases in Memphis, Germantown, Bartlett, and Collierville, TN. To discuss your case please contact him at 901-205-9894 or email him at [email protected].

Examples of Class A, B & C misdemeanor crimes in TN

A misdemeanor charge can become a felony charge depending on the circumstances, but generally speaking, offenses like these are considered misdemeanors:

Why should you work with a Sevierville criminal defense attorney?

You should work with a Sevierville criminal defense attorney because merely reading law books is not enough: you want someone who is trial-tested and who has the skills and resources to look out for your best interest. In addition, a Sevierville criminal defense lawyer can:

What is theft in Tennessee?

Under Tennessee law, theft occurs when a person takes someone else's property without their consent and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of that property. This definition includes the crimes of larceny, embezzlement, receiving or concealing stolen property, and fraudulent conversion of property.

How much is a felony for stealing property?

Stealing property or services valued at $10,000 or more but less than $60,000 results in a Class C felony. A guilty person is subject to three to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

What is theft of services?

A person commits theft of services in the following ways: obtaining services using deceit, fraud, coercion, forgery, false statements, or false pretenses. using services meant for others for their own benefit, or. leaving businesses, such as hotels and restaurants, without paying for services. Let's take a look at the classifications ...

Can a retail merchant sue for damages?

Instead of criminal prosecution, the district attorney (prosecutor) may allow a retail merchant to sue for damages in civil court. This option only applies if the listed retail price of the stolen merchandise is less than $500.

What is the penalty for a class E felony?

The punishment for a Class E felony includes imprisonment for one to six years and a $3,000 fine.

What are some examples of alternative sentences?

Examples of alternatives include payment of a fine or restitution only, a suspended sentence, work release, or a community-based alternative to incarceration.

What to do if you are charged with theft?

If you have been charged with a theft-related crime, contact a local criminal defense attorney. An experienced attorney will guide you through the criminal court process and thoroughly discuss with you any potential defenses to your charges.

Fighting accusations that threaten your reputation, career and liberty

Theft, larceny, and embezzlement are all specific crimes that involve stealing. and our attorneys are here to help. In general, the seriousness of the crime depends on the value of the stolen property or services. At the Law Offices of Adrian H. Altshuler & Associates, we defend our clients’ rights in cases involving theft.

Preparing a strong defense in central Tennessee

Criminal investigation is generally the first indication that authorities have you in their sights as a target. You should always have a lawyer present during questioning to ensure you do not say anything that could result in self-incrimination.

What is statutory fee?

A statutory fee is a payment determined by the court or laws which applies to your case. You'll encounter a fixed statutory fee when dealing with probate or bankruptcy, for example.

How to pay retainer fees?

Make sure that your contract includes the details of: 1 Contract – The agreement should list the total amount of any retainer deposit that you pay upfront. It should also state when you need to pay additional fees, if necessary. 2 Hourly Fee – Don't look only for the hourly rate of your lawyer on the agreement. Make sure you also see a description of the different hourly rates for each person who might contribute to your case. Ask for your payment schedule. Ask if you get a discount for early payment or if you pay penalties for late fees. 3 Contingency Fee – In a contingency case, the lawyer profits by the percentage they earn upon winning the case. The lawyer's contingency percentage and the payment-collection process should appear clearly outlined in your agreement. Sometimes, a lawyer will not collect any fees from you if they lose a contingency case, such as in personal injury disputes. In other situations, they may demand payment from their client only if they lose the case. 4 Costs of Suit – Check for clear terms to describe who pays for all of the different litigation costs involved. You should anticipate possible charges for court appearances and filing fees, hiring a private investigator, the cost of bringing in an expert witness, costs for officially serving and delivering legal documents, and travel fees.

How to avoid disagreements with your attorney?

Either way, most states require evidence of a written fee agreement when handling any disputes between clients and lawyers. You must have written evidence of what you agreed to pay for anyone to hold you accountable for what you have or have not spent.

What is contingency fee?

An attorney contingency fee is only typical in a case where you're claiming money due to circumstances like personal injury or workers' compensation. You're likely to see attorney percentage fees in these situations to average around a third of the total legal settlement fees paid to the client.

What to ask when hiring an attorney?

When hiring your attorney, ask for a detailed written estimate of any expenses or additional costs. They may itemize each expense out for you or lump their fees all together under different categories of work. Lawyers may bill you for: Advice. Research.

Do lawyers charge retainers?

Sometimes lawyers may charge a retainer if they find themselves in high demand. Other lawyers who work more quickly and efficiently may see no need for charging you a retainer fee. Call different lawyers in your area to see if retainers are standard practice for your particular case.

How long is a misdemeanor in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, class A misdemeanors, the most serious misdemeanors, are punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, or both. If lawmakers fail to classify a misdemeanor, then it is punishable as a class A misdemeanor.

What to do if you are accused of a crime in Tennessee?

If you are accused of committing a crime in Tennessee, you should talk to a local criminal defense attorney, no matter what the charges. An experienced attorney will be able to tell you how your case is likely to be treated in court, depending on the assigned judge and prosecutor, the law, and the facts of your case.

What is statute of limitations in Tennessee?

A statute of limitations is the period of time during which the state must begin criminal prosecution. The statute of limitations begins to "run" when the crime occurs. In Tennessee, most misdemeanors have one-year statutes of limitations. (Tenn. Code Ann. § 40-2-102 (2019).)

What is class C in Tennessee?

Class C Misdemeanors. Under Tennessee's laws, class C misdemeanors are the least serious misdemeanors, punishable by up to 30 days in jail, a fine of up to $50, or both. Public intoxication is an example of a class C misdemeanor. (Tenn. Code Ann. § 40-35-111 (2019).)

What is class B misdemeanor?

Class B Misdemeanors. A class B misdemeanor is punishable by up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $500, or both. For example, aggravated criminal trespass is a class B misdemeanor. (Tenn.

How much does a criminal defense attorney cost?

How much are criminal defense attorney fees? On average, a criminal defense attorney costs $200 an hour, but how much you’ll pay can vary greatly depending on your case. Some clients pay $100 to $150 an hour, and others pay more than $300 to $350 an hour.

How to save money on lawyer fees?

Another way to save money on lawyer fees is to make sure you understand what you’ll be responsible for paying. Attorneys who charge by the hour bill for every task associated with your case. This includes work done in the office, as well as for court appearances.

Why is it important to hire a lawyer?

If you’ve been arrested or are facing prosecution for a crime, it’s important to hire a defense attorney who can guide you through the legal process, explain your rights and options, and defend your case. It’s often best to hire a lawyer as soon as you’ve been accused of a crime to ensure your rights are protected.

What is an initial retainer?

This is an up-front advance payment that the attorney will draw from to cover your legal fees as the work is completed. Retainers can vary, depending on the lawyer’s hourly rate and the complexity of the case.

Can a misdemeanor be a felony?

Misdemeanor and felony charges vary by state, but generally, a defendant charged with a misdemeanor likely won’t pay as much as someone who needs legal representation for a felony.

Is hourly billing the only fee structure a criminal defense attorney might use?

Hourly billing is not the only fee structure a criminal defense attorney might use. Although it’s not as common, some defense lawyers might charge fixed flat fees for certain criminal cases, such as a DWI or a simple infraction.

Why do I need a lawyer if I don't hire a lawyer?

First of all, how can you have possibly been proven guilty already when your court date is still in the future?! Secondly, if you do not hire a lawyer, you are guaranteed to have a crime of moral turpitude on your record, so say good by to any good jobs when you graduate. You will absolutely need a lawyer if you even wish to minimize the consequences, like reducing the charge, or earning a dismissal in some kind of negotiated settlement.

What is a deferred judgment?

You should be sure to try and get a plea agreement called a "deferred judgment." This will help ensure that you can have your record sealed later. This result may be hard to get, so that you should hire a lawyer.

What does it mean when you are proven guilty?

If you have been proven guilty, then that means there are no criminal charges or record of conviction after a trial acquitting you, so what do you need a lawyer for?

How do I keep something off my record?

The best chance to keep something off your record is to hire an attorney and fight the charge.

Do you have to have a lawyer if you have a lifetime criminal record?

You have not been proven guilty, as you have not been tried. A lawyer is a must if you want to assure you will not have a lifetime criminal record.

Can you be found guilty of a crime if you have no record?

Until you have pled guilty or been found guilty by a jury, you are not guilty. Get an attorney he may be able to get you a deal where you end up with no record. This could limit your career options otherwise.

Can you be charged with petty theft?

Bail is usually not charged for a first offense petty theft. Usually just a ticket is given by the police with a promise to appear. If the case was grand theft, over $1000, then it can be charged as a felony or misdemeanour and while you may be released on O.R., it would take longer. So the seriousness of the case depends on the amount of property taken or whether there were "burglary tools" taken into the stores, such as "booster bags", or wire cutters to remove sensors. Then the case can be charged as a burglary. If it appears as though you and your friend worked together to take or conceal items, then you will bear charged jointly with her. Yes you should get an attorney. With a 4.0, this can be much worse on a career than having a 2.0 GPA in school.