Andrew Cunnyngham (423) 799-0816

Criminal Defense

Common Tennessee Criminal Charges

I have experience with defending the types of charges listed below.

ASSAULT

Assault, Aggravated Assault, Domestic Assault & Vehicular Assault. Like most criminal convictions - The offenses of assault and domestic assault carry collateral consequences. For example, a conviction of Domestic Assault can result in a lifetime ban for the possession of a firearm pursuant to the Gun Control Act of 1968. Not even a pardon from the Governor or the President would permit one to own a firearm again, if he or she is convicted of domestic assault.

BURGLARY

Burglary, Aggravated Burglary. These offenses are concerned with unauthorized entry into buildings. The crime is complete on entry, which means theft can also be charged in some circumstances. These offenses can carry very harsh penalties regardless of the amount of property that was taken (or even an attempt to take property) - potentially, up to 15 year sentence for aggravated burglary, if an individual has a sufficiently lengthy record.

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This offense can involve highly technical proof. If convicted, this offense carries a terrible social stigma. While there are many consequences to a conviction of driving under the influence "DUI" - including jail time, fines and loss of driving privileges - one lesser known consequence is this conviction will potentially hamper your ability to travel outside the United States. For example, Canada typically does not allow people with DUI convictions to enter Canada, irrespective of whether they intend to drive or not drive a motor vehicle in Canada. Only retain an attorney who understands how to defend this charge and one that is knowledgable about the consequences of a DUI conviction.

DRUG OFFENSES

Drug Possession, Drugs for Resale, Search and Seizure Issues & Conspiracy. These offenses can carry harsh sentences. They should always be taken very seriously. Many defendants wrongfully assume that they will be able to blame their so-called friend for having possession of drugs. East Tennessee law enforcement will quickly prosecute people found in proximity of drugs; Without knowledgable counsel to handle your case, your risk of conviction is greatly increased.

THEFT

Theft of Property & Theft of Services. A conviction for this offense can have devastating consequences for job-seekers. Prospective employers will not be impressed with a conviction for theft. Through the H.R. Seminars I have taught, I have emphasized the importance of checking for this type of conviction for job-applicants. Equally bad, your current employer may seek to dismiss you if it is discovered that you have been convicted of this offense - some employers will even dismiss someone who has been charged with this offense. If you are being investigated for this type of crime, call me today. Even if you have not been charged, as of yet, I could potentially help you during the investigation phase.

Tresspassing

An unauthorized entry onto the land of another. Many are surprised to learn that they can be convicted of this offense even though the landowner did not take the time to to post a "no trespassing" sign. This offense often accompanies theft and or burglary charges.

VANDALISM

Destruction of Property. This offense is common in juvenile court but is being used more widely in criminal court today.

Andrew S. Cunnyngham