What Is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony in Tennessee?

July 2, 2026

If you have been charged with a crime in Tennessee, one of the first things you may hear is whether the offense is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. While both are criminal charges, the differences between them can have a major impact on your future, including possible jail time, fines, employment opportunities, and long-term consequences.

Understanding how Tennessee classifies criminal offenses is important if you or a loved one is facing charges in Chattanooga or anywhere in the state.

At Caldwell & Morrison, we help individuals navigate criminal charges and protect their rights throughout every stage of the legal process.


What Is a Misdemeanor in Tennessee?

A misdemeanor is generally considered a less serious criminal offense than a felony.

Although misdemeanors may still carry significant consequences, they typically involve shorter jail sentences and lower fines.

Common misdemeanor charges in Tennessee may include:

  • Simple assault
  • First-offense DUI
  • Shoplifting
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Public intoxication
  • Vandalism
  • Marijuana possession (certain amounts)
  • Traffic-related criminal offenses

Even though misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, a conviction can still affect your criminal record, employment opportunities, professional licenses, and reputation.


Misdemeanor Classifications in Tennessee

Tennessee divides misdemeanors into several classes based on severity.

Class A Misdemeanor

The most serious misdemeanor category.

Possible penalties may include:

  • Up to 11 months and 29 days in jail
  • Fines up to $2,500

Class B Misdemeanor

Possible penalties may include:

  • Up to 6 months in jail
  • Fines up to $500

Class C Misdemeanor

Possible penalties may include:

  • Up to 30 days in jail
  • Fines up to $50

The exact penalties depend on the specific offense and circumstances involved.


What Is a Felony in Tennessee?

A felony is a much more serious criminal offense.

Felony convictions can carry lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and life-changing consequences that follow a person long after the criminal case ends.

Common felony charges in Tennessee include:

  • Aggravated assault
  • Drug trafficking
  • Burglary
  • Robbery
  • Certain theft offenses
  • Felony DUI
  • Weapons charges
  • Sexual offenses
  • Homicide offenses

Felony convictions often result in harsher penalties and greater long-term impacts on personal and professional life.


Felony Classifications in Tennessee

Tennessee categorizes felonies from Class E to Class A based on seriousness.

Class E Felony

The least severe felony classification.

Class D Felony

Class C Felony

Class B Felony

Class A Felony

The most serious felony category, often involving violent crimes.

Potential felony penalties may include:

  • Multiple years in prison
  • Significant fines
  • Long probation periods
  • Permanent criminal records

Sentencing often depends on:

  • Criminal history
  • Severity of the offense
  • Presence of weapons
  • Injuries involved
  • Prior convictions


Key Differences Between Misdemeanors and Felonies

1. Severity of the Offense

Felonies are considered more serious crimes than misdemeanors.


2. Potential Jail or Prison Time

Misdemeanors generally carry less than one year in local jail.

Felonies may result in:

  • State prison sentences
  • Multi-year incarceration
  • Long-term supervision


3. Long-Term Consequences

Felony convictions often create more significant long-term effects, including:

  • Difficulty finding employment
  • Housing challenges
  • Loss of firearm rights
  • Professional license restrictions
  • Voting rights consequences in some situations

Even misdemeanor convictions, however, can still impact background checks and future opportunities.


4. Court Procedures

Felony cases are usually more complex and may involve:

  • Grand jury indictments
  • Preliminary hearings
  • More extensive investigations
  • Higher bond amounts

Felony cases often require more aggressive legal defense strategies due to the severity of potential penalties.


Can a Misdemeanor Become a Felony?

Yes. Certain circumstances can increase criminal charges from misdemeanors to felonies.

Examples may include:

  • Repeat offenses
  • Prior criminal history
  • High-value theft amounts
  • Serious bodily injury
  • Use of weapons
  • Drug quantity increases

For example, a first DUI may be charged as a misdemeanor, while multiple DUI offenses can become felonies.


Can Criminal Charges Be Reduced?

In some cases, yes.

An experienced criminal defense attorney may be able to:

  • Challenge evidence
  • Negotiate reduced charges
  • Seek diversion programs
  • Pursue dismissal opportunities
  • Minimize penalties

Every case is different, and outcomes depend on the facts, evidence, and legal issues involved.


Why Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney Matters

Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony, criminal charges should always be taken seriously.

An experienced Tennessee criminal defense attorney can help:

  • Protect your constitutional rights
  • Explain your legal options
  • Investigate your case
  • Challenge improper evidence
  • Negotiate with prosecutors
  • Build a strong defense strategy

Early legal representation can often make a major difference in the outcome of a criminal case.


Protect Your Future After Criminal Charges

Being charged with a crime does not automatically mean you will be convicted.

Understanding the difference between misdemeanors and felonies is an important first step toward protecting your future and making informed decisions about your defense.

At Caldwell & Morrison, we provide experienced criminal defense representation for individuals facing misdemeanor and felony charges throughout Chattanooga and surrounding Tennessee communities.

Charged With a Crime in Tennessee?

Contact Caldwell & Morrison today for a confidential consultation and experienced legal guidance for misdemeanor and felony criminal defense cases.

What to Do After a Personal Injury Accident in Tennessee: A Step-by-Step Guide

July 10, 2026
Accidents happen when you least expect them. Whether you've been injured in a car accident, a slip and fall, or another incident caused by someone else's negligence, the moments afterward can be overwhelming. Medical bills begin to pile up, insurance companies start asking questions, and you may be unable to work while recovering. Knowing what to do after a personal injury accident can protect both your health and your legal rights. At Caldwell & Morrison, we understand how stressful these situations can be, and we're committed to helping injury victims throughout the Chattanooga area pursue the compensation they deserve. Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately Your health should always be your first priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, it's important to see a medical professional as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as concussions, internal injuries, or soft tissue damage, may not show symptoms right away. Prompt medical treatment also creates documentation that may be important if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim. Step 2: Report the Accident Depending on the type of accident, notify the appropriate authorities. Call law enforcement after a motor vehicle accident. Report slip and fall accidents to the property owner or manager. Notify your employer if the injury occurred at work. Request copies of any accident reports whenever possible. Step 3: Gather Evidence If you're physically able, collect as much information as you can at the scene. Helpful evidence includes: Photos of the accident scene Photos of your injuries Contact information for witnesses Insurance information from other parties Any damaged property The more evidence you preserve early, the stronger your claim may be later. Step 4: Be Careful When Speaking With Insurance Companies Insurance adjusters may contact you shortly after an accident. While they may appear helpful, remember that their goal is often to settle claims quickly and for as little as possible. Avoid: Admitting fault Speculating about what happened Giving recorded statements without understanding your rights Accepting a quick settlement before knowing the full extent of your injuries An experienced attorney can help you communicate with insurance companies and protect your interests. Step 5: Keep Records of Everything A successful personal injury claim often depends on thorough documentation. Keep copies of: Medical records and bills Prescription receipts Physical therapy expenses Lost wage documentation Vehicle repair estimates Correspondence with insurance companies You may also benefit from keeping a journal describing your pain levels, medical appointments, and how your injuries affect your daily life. Understanding Compensation in a Personal Injury Claim Every case is unique, but injured individuals may be able to recover compensation for damages such as: Medical expenses Future medical treatment Lost income Reduced earning capacity Pain and suffering Property damage The value of a claim depends on many factors, including the severity of the injury, available evidence, and the circumstances surrounding the accident. Why Legal Representation Matters Personal injury cases can quickly become complicated. Insurance companies often dispute liability, question medical treatment, or attempt to minimize the value of a claim. Having an attorney on your side allows you to focus on healing while someone else handles the legal process. An experienced lawyer can investigate the accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and, when necessary, advocate for you in court. Caldwell & Morrison Is Here to Help If you've been injured because of someone else's negligence, you don't have to navigate the legal process alone. The attorneys at Caldwell & Morrison provide compassionate guidance and dedicated representation to clients facing civil legal matters, including personal injury claims. If you have questions about your legal options, contact Caldwell & Morrison to schedule a consultation. Their team is committed to helping clients throughout the Chattanooga area understand their rights and pursue the justice they deserve.

What To Expect During the Divorce Process in Tennessee

July 2, 2026
Divorce can be one of the most emotionally and financially difficult experiences a person faces. Questions about property division, child custody, finances, and the future often create stress and uncertainty for everyone involved. While every divorce case is different, understanding the general divorce process in Tennessee can help reduce confusion and allow you to make more informed decisions during this important transition. At Caldwell & Morrison, we help individuals and families throughout Chattanooga and Tennessee navigate divorce and family law matters with experienced legal guidance and compassionate representation. Grounds for Divorce in Tennessee Tennessee allows both fault-based and no-fault divorces. No-Fault Divorce The most common no-fault grounds include: Irreconcilable differences In these cases, neither spouse must prove wrongdoing to obtain a divorce. Fault-Based Divorce Tennessee also recognizes several fault-based grounds, including: Adultery Abandonment Cruel and inhuman treatment Substance abuse Conviction of certain crimes Inappropriate marital conduct Fault allegations can sometimes affect issues such as alimony, property division, or custody depending on the circumstances. Filing for Divorce The divorce process officially begins when one spouse files a Complaint for Divorce with the appropriate Tennessee court. The spouse filing the case is known as the: Plaintiff The other spouse becomes the: Defendant After filing, the divorce papers must be formally served on the other party. The responding spouse then has an opportunity to file an official response with the court. Temporary Orders During Divorce Divorce cases can take time to resolve, and temporary issues often need immediate attention. The court may issue temporary orders regarding: Child custody Parenting schedules Child support Spousal support Use of marital property Payment of bills and expenses These temporary arrangements remain in place until the final divorce agreement or court order is entered. Property Division in Tennessee Tennessee follows the legal principle of equitable distribution. This means marital property is divided fairly, though not always equally. Marital property may include: Homes and real estate Retirement accounts Bank accounts Vehicles Investments Business interests Debts accumulated during marriage The court may consider factors such as: Length of the marriage Contributions of each spouse Financial circumstances Future earning capacity Separate property owned before marriage may sometimes remain with the original owner, though disputes can arise depending on how assets were handled during the marriage. Child Custody and Parenting Plans When children are involved, Tennessee courts focus on the best interests of the child. Custody decisions may involve: Parenting schedules Decision-making authority Residential arrangements Holiday schedules Child support obligations Tennessee courts generally encourage both parents to maintain healthy relationships with their children whenever appropriate. Parenting plans are often required to outline responsibilities and visitation schedules in detail. Child Support and Alimony Child Support Tennessee uses child support guidelines that consider factors such as: Income of both parents Parenting time Healthcare costs Childcare expenses Alimony In some divorces, one spouse may be ordered to pay spousal support. The court may evaluate: Length of the marriage Financial need Earning capacity Standard of living during marriage Contributions to the household Not every divorce results in alimony, but it may become a significant issue in certain cases. Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce Uncontested Divorce An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on major issues, including: Property division Custody Child support Alimony These cases are often resolved faster and with lower legal costs. Contested Divorce A contested divorce occurs when spouses disagree on one or more important issues. Contested cases may involve: Negotiations Mediation Court hearings Discovery processes Trial These cases can become more complex and emotionally challenging. Mediation in Tennessee Divorce Cases Tennessee courts often require mediation before contested divorce cases proceed to trial. Mediation allows spouses to work with a neutral third party to attempt resolution outside of court. Benefits of mediation may include: Reduced legal costs Faster resolutions More privacy Greater control over outcomes Reduced conflict Not all cases settle during mediation, but many disputes can be resolved without a full trial. How Long Does Divorce Take in Tennessee? The timeline depends heavily on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. Tennessee waiting periods generally include: 60 days for couples without minor children 90 days for couples with minor children Contested divorces involving property disputes or custody issues may take significantly longer. Complex cases sometimes continue for many months or more. Why Hiring a Divorce Attorney Matters Divorce can affect nearly every aspect of your life, including your finances, children, property, and future stability. An experienced Tennessee divorce attorney can help: Protect your legal rights Explain your options Negotiate fair agreements Represent you in court Reduce costly mistakes Advocate for your long-term interests Having experienced legal guidance can make a significant difference during emotionally difficult situations. Protect Your Future During Divorce Divorce is never easy, but understanding the legal process can help you feel more prepared and informed as you move forward. At Caldwell & Morrison, we help clients throughout Chattanooga and Tennessee navigate divorce, child custody, parenting plans, alimony, and other family law matters with skilled and compassionate representation. Considering Divorce in Tennessee? Contact Caldwell & Morrison today for a confidential consultation and experienced guidance for divorce and family law matters in Chattanooga and surrounding Tennessee communities.