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Stephens & DiRado, LLP Defending Your Rights in Knoxville and the surrounding counties.

Two people, same charge, different sentences. In Tennessee, the reason often comes down to enhancement factors and mitig...
10/21/2026

Two people, same charge, different sentences. In Tennessee, the reason often comes down to enhancement factors and mitigating factors.

Enhancement factors, such as a prior record or a more serious set of circumstances, may push a sentence toward the higher end of the range. Mitigating factors, such as a minor role, acceptance of responsibility, or steady rehabilitation, may support a lower sentence or a more favorable arrangement.

Which ones apply, and how much they count, depends entirely on the evidence. If you want to understand how these factors could affect a Knox County case, our team can walk you through it. Connect with us by visiting sdlawtn.com.

As a case moves into Criminal Court, the stakes become significantly higher. This is where more serious cases are fully ...
09/30/2026

As a case moves into Criminal Court, the stakes become significantly higher. This is where more serious cases are fully litigated, and where strategy plays a critical role.

At this stage:

🔹 Evidence is challenged.
🔹 Motions are argued.
🔹 Trial preparation begins.

The outcome can have long-term consequences, which is why experienced representation is essential. We are prepared to advocate for you at every step and fight for the best possible result when it matters most.

Learn more: https://www.sdlawtn.com/

If a bond source hearing is coming, preparation makes the difference. The specific records depend on your situation and ...
09/21/2026

If a bond source hearing is coming, preparation makes the difference. The specific records depend on your situation and should be reviewed with an attorney, but families often start by gathering:

▪️ Bank statements showing where the funds originated
▪️ Payroll records or pay stubs
▪️ Loan paperwork, if the money was borrowed
▪️ Proof of a property sale or similar transaction
▪️ Documentation for a lawful gift or third-party contribution

Clear, consistent records tend to move a hearing along, and gaps tend to slow it down. If you need help getting ready, reach our team at sdlawtn.com/contact

Cash bond, surety bond, or release on recognizance? These are not the same thing, and the court decides which forms of r...
09/09/2026

Cash bond, surety bond, or release on recognizance? These are not the same thing, and the court decides which forms of release are available in a given case.

Paying a cash bond means providing the funds directly to the court. A surety bond involves a licensed bonding company posting on the defendant's behalf for a fee. Release on one's own recognizance means being let out without posting money, subject to conditions the court sets.

Knowing which option applies to your situation helps you plan. Our attorneys can explain where your case stands at sdlawtn.com/knoxville-general-sessions-court-attorneys

We wish each of you a wonderful Labor Day! During this annual celebration of hard work, may you enjoy a well-deserved, r...
09/03/2026

We wish each of you a wonderful Labor Day! During this annual celebration of hard work, may you enjoy a well-deserved, restful break.

Please note that our office will be closed on Monday, September 7th, in observance of the holiday, and will reopen on Tuesday, September 8th.

An officer asks to take a "quick look" at your phone, your car, or your home. It sounds routine, but it can be anything ...
08/18/2026

An officer asks to take a "quick look" at your phone, your car, or your home.

It sounds routine, but it can be anything but. Requests involving your property can become an important part of a criminal investigation, and the rules governing searches, warrants, and consent depend heavily on the circumstances.

Treating an informal request as legally insignificant is a risk, because what feels minor in the moment can matter quite a bit later.

If you are unsure how to respond, talk to a defense attorney first. Call (865) 426-1646.

Big congratulations to Associate Attorney Martha O. Dinwiddie on receiving the Stars of Light Award at last week's T.A.C...
08/07/2026

Big congratulations to Associate Attorney Martha O. Dinwiddie on receiving the Stars of Light Award at last week's T.A.C.D.L. Annual Awards Banquet! This award recognizes a young T.A.C.D.L. member who shows exemplary leadership and zeal — and Martha earned it: two motions for new trial granted, CLE presentations, publication contributions, and jury trials litigated through direct appeal, all in 2025 alone.

We couldn't be prouder of the work she does for our clients every day.

Being investigated is not the same as being charged, but it's still important. Police may gather information long before...
08/04/2026

Being investigated is not the same as being charged, but it's still important. Police may gather information long before a warrant or a formal charge exists.

You might be asked for an interview, invited to "clear things up," or learn that officers have already spoken with people close to you. None of that means a decision has been made, which is exactly why it deserves to be taken seriously.

Before you make substantive statements, get individualized advice. Get in touch with our team by visiting sdlawtn.com/contact.

"How much time am I looking at?" is usually the first question after a felony charge in Tennessee. It is also the hardes...
07/29/2026

"How much time am I looking at?" is usually the first question after a felony charge in Tennessee. It is also the hardest one to answer from the charge alone.

The felony class and your offender range set the broad limits, but case-specific factors shape where an actual sentence could fall. A generic sentencing chart cannot account for your history or the facts of your case, which is why a prediction pulled from the internet can be misleading.

Start with a reliable overview instead: sdlawtn.com/blogs/tennessee-felony-sentencing-ranges-explained

A grand jury does not determine whether someone is guilty or innocent. Instead, it reviews evidence presented by the pro...
07/21/2026

A grand jury does not determine whether someone is guilty or innocent. Instead, it reviews evidence presented by the prosecution and decides whether there is probable cause to believe a crime was committed and that criminal charges should move forward into criminal court.

Because grand jury proceedings take place outside of public view, the process can feel confusing and uncertain for those involved.
That's why experienced legal guidance is so important. We can help by:

🔹 Explaining what to expect throughout the process.
🔹 Evaluating the allegations and available evidence.
🔹 Preparing for potential indictments or other outcomes.
🔹 Developing a strategy to protect your rights moving forward.

If you learn that your case is being presented to a grand jury, having knowledgeable legal counsel on your side can make a significant difference in navigating the next steps..

Learn more: https://www.sdlawtn.com/

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606 W. Main Street, Suite 250
Knoxville, TN
37902

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