We build individualized defense strategies for people accused of violent offenses, from misdemeanor assault to felony homicide. At Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz, we examine the specific charge, alleged conduct, available evidence, prior record, and procedural history before determining how to respond.
A violent-crime allegation can quickly lead to arrest, bond conditions, and mandatory court appearances. Statements and decisions made during these early stages can affect the defense, so prompt legal guidance matters. We have represented criminally accused clients in the Knoxville area and Knox County since 2007.
Call (865) 896-9971 now for a free initial consultation about a violent-crime investigation or charge.
Violent Offenses We Defend in Corryton
We represent clients facing allegations ranging from lesser misdemeanors to serious felonies. The charge alone doesn’t determine the defense because the prosecution must establish the required facts and legal elements.
We handle violent-crime cases involving:
Murder
Manslaughter
Arson
Kidnapping
Child abuse
Assault and battery
Each offense raises different questions about intent, witness credibility, physical evidence, police conduct, and whether the alleged actions satisfy the charged statute. We ground our defense strategy in the circumstances of the individual case.
Trial Preparation Backed by Courtroom Experience
Attorney Joseph Fanduzz has 17 years of legal experience and has fought cases in Federal Court, Criminal Court, and General Sessions Court. He graduated from the National Criminal Defense College and is part of an elite group of trial lawyers. This background informs detailed preparation for motions, hearings, and trial.
We prioritize a strong attorney-client relationship throughout that preparation. Each client has an opportunity to explain the events, raise concerns, understand the evidence, and participate in decisions about the defense.
Speak with a Violent Crime Attorney
We offer free initial consultations and remain available around the clock for prospective clients. Our contact form is also available for inquiries about an investigation, arrest, upcoming hearing, or pending charge.
Call (865) 896-9971 to discuss your Corryton violent-crime case with us.
Tennessee Violent Crime Charges & Penalties
The applicable classification and potential penalties depend on the charged statute, alleged conduct, and facts the prosecution claims it can prove. Review must begin with the precise allegations rather than the general label attached to the case.
Assault
Tennessee assault can involve intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury. It can also involve intentionally or knowingly causing another person to reasonably fear imminent bodily injury, or making physical contact that’s extremely offensive or provocative.
Assault is generally classified as a Class A misdemeanor. When the allegation is based on offensive or provocative physical contact, it’s generally a Class B misdemeanor. The applicable classification depends on the alleged conduct and the section of law charged.
Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault may involve serious bodily injury, death, use or display of a deadly weapon, or strangulation or attempted strangulation. It’s generally a Class C felony when committed intentionally and a Class D felony when based on reckless conduct. The alleged mental state and evidence supporting each element can therefore be central to the case.
Homicide & Voluntary Manslaughter
First-degree murder includes a premeditated and intentional killing as well as felony murder, which is a killing connected to the commission or attempted commission of certain felonies. Depending on the governing law and circumstances, potential sentences include death, life without parole, or life with parole eligibility after 51 years.
Second-degree murder is a knowing killing without premeditation. It’s a Class A felony carrying a prison range of 15 to 60 years. Voluntary manslaughter is an intentional or knowing killing committed in a state of passion produced by adequate provocation, and it’s classified as a Class C felony.
Defense Issues in Violent-Crime Cases
The available defenses depend on the events, admissible evidence, required mental state, and whether the prosecution can prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt.
Self-Defense & Defense of Another Person
Tennessee law permits self-defense when the use of force is legally justified. There’s no general duty to retreat when a person is in a place where that person has a right to be, but the complete statutory requirements and surrounding circumstances still matter.
Defense of another person may apply when someone reasonably believes force is necessary to protect that person. We examine what the accused knew at the time, how the threat appeared, the force allegedly used, and the evidence supporting or contradicting each account.
Intent & Supporting Evidence
Intent is the mental state the prosecution must establish for a particular offense. A lack-of-intent defense disputes whether the evidence proves that state of mind, which may be intentional, knowing, or reckless depending on the charge.
We also test whether witness accounts, recordings, physical evidence, and police reports support the allegation. Pre-trial motions may address the admissibility of evidence or other legal issues, although the available motions depend on the facts and procedural history.
How Violent Crime Cases Move Through Knox County Courts
Preliminary felony matters arising in Knox County begin at the general-sessions level, while felony cases proceed in Knox County Criminal Court following indictment. Criminal matters are assigned by offense type, including a domestic violence docket and a Second Sessions Court docket for driving under the influence, vehicular assault, and vehicular homicide matters.
We have handled homicide matters in Knox County Criminal Court, General Sessions Court, and Federal Court. That experience informs our preparation for each stage of a serious criminal case without assuming every charge follows the same path.
A Knox County murder case may include several procedural stages:
Arrest and booking
Grand jury review and indictment
Arraignment
Pre-trial motions
Jury selection
Trial
Sentencing if there’s a conviction
An appeal from a murder conviction proceeds to the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals. Court procedure and timing vary based on the charge, evidence, bond status, motions filed, and decisions made as the case develops.
“Mr. Fanduzz is committed to nothing but the BEST outcome for his clients.”
Nearly two years ago, I was charged with DUI and Speeding. Due to my occupation, a conviction could be detrimental to my career. I contacted Mr. Fanduzz and he was able to have my case placed on Judicial Diversion, which required me to serve only one year supervised probation (reduced from two years) and court cost. I retained my drivers license and did not have to purchase expensive car insurance.
Unfortunately, while on probation, I was charged with two counts of assault and aggravated assault. Along with these new charges, I also faced violation of my probation and the original DUI. All charges were considered Felonies at this point. There was no hesitation in hiring him to represent me again. Mr. Fanduzz not only kept me well informed, he also skillfully and agressively argued on my behalf. He arranged for my probation and judicial diversion to be reinstated and the felony assault charges to be dismissed in exchange for a plea to a misdemeanor offence.
Needless to say, I highly recommend Mr. Fanduzz because of his attention to detail and commitment to have the BEST possible outcome for his clients.
NACDL
