In Blount County and throughout Tennessee, being convicted of even a minor criminal law violation (such as public intoxication) may trigger a variety of serious consequences, even if the conviction does not lead to a fine or incarceration. For example, following an arrest or conviction, students of the University of Tennessee or other universities or colleges may be denied financial aid and be suspended or expelled. With a criminal record, both students and non-students would be barred from working in certain jobs. A criminal record would also impact disputes related to divorce and child custody.

In selected cases, at the request of people facing criminal charges or academic proceedings, Tennessee attorney Mark C. Hartsoe works to help clients avoid criminal convictions or harsh disciplinary measures by universities or colleges. Mr. Hartsoe believes that young people should have a chance to learn from youthful mistakes, rather than see their efforts and dreams permanently derailed by such mistakes.

If you are facing suspension proceedings or criminal charges in Blount County or the broader Knoxville area, the Hartsoe Law Firm may be able to help. We make sure that our clients’ rights are protected, and we seek alternative resolutions that will allow the clients to move on with their lives. Such alternatives include pre-trial diversion, judicial diversion, and expungement of records—including records of arrest.

Under the terms of pre-trial diversion, which may be granted by a prosecutor, a first-time offender has to satisfy certain conditions during a limited amount of time—but will not have to enter a plea. He or she may then seek to have the record expunged.

Judicial diversion is another option for certain first-time offenders in Tennessee. However, judicial diversion may be granted only after a defendant has pled, and people who are granted judicial diversion have to complete a period of formal probation. In addition, in considering a grant of judicial diversion, the judge must balance the interests of the public as well as the interest and history of the defendant. Having an experienced Tennessee litigator on your side is the best way to ensure that your background and potential will be fully and persuasively presented to the judge.

Tennessee law allows for the expungement of records in a variety cases (including cases where the charges were ultimately dismissed, or where the arrest was not followed by charges). However, expungement is not granted automatically; rather, if you are seeking expungement, you must comply with a variety of requirements and file the necessary application. An experienced Tennessee attorney can help in this process, as well.

If you are facing criminal charges or administrative proceedings in Blount County, or if you seek to have your record expunged, please contact the Hartsoe Law Firm right away to discuss your case with an experienced and caring attorney. Call (865) 524-5657, email hartsoe@knoxvilleinjury.com, or fill out and submit our online “Contact Us” form.