Criminal Law

Attorney Frank Lannom has dedicated his legal career to the defense of citizens accused of crimes.  He believes that every person deserves a defense and that even those who may be guilty of a crime normally do not deserve the harsh punishments the government seeks. Along with attorney Melanie Bean, Frank Lannom is dedicated to limiting the control and power the government utilizes against citizens accused of violating the law.  The term criminal law refers to prosecution by the government of an individual who violates public law. Even if the charges seem minor, criminal convictions can follow an individual for life and can have a negative impact on future social, educational and professional opportunities. That is why it is imperative for all individuals facing criminal charges to seek legal counsel from an experienced, highly skilled criminal defense attorney.

If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges in a Tennessee state or federal court, please contact us today. Frank Lannom and Melanie Bean, assisted by a skilled team of paralegals, investigators and support staff, have been successfully representing the accused for more than 16 years and will fight to get your charges reduced and/or dropped.

What is the Difference Between Criminal Law and Civil Law?
Criminal cases refer to those brought against an individual who is suspected of committing a crime by the state, whereas a civil case is brought against the suspect by the victim him/herself.

Types of Criminal Offenses
Because each state has its own set of criminal laws, it is crucial to consult a defense attorney who is familiar with the criminal system where the alleged crime occurred. The attorneys at Lannom & Williams are extremely knowledgeable with Tennessee law and are experienced in handling diverse criminal matters, including:

Criminal Punishments
There are several factors that help determine an individual’s punishment for committing a crime, including the type of crime committed, whether or not a weapon was used, whether or not anyone was injured or killed, and whether or not the defendant has a prior criminal record.

Depending on the nature of the crime, a convicted individual may face a punishment which includes one or more of the following:

  • Hefty fines
  • Community service
  • Probation
  • Lengthy prison sentences
  • House arrest
  • Loss of certain rights, such as the ability to own a firearm or to drive a motorized vehicle
  • Execution

Preventing or Removing a Criminal Record
Many individuals, particularly young people, are significantly affected by having a criminal record.  Frank has been very successful over the years at protecting the future of young offenders in particular, reducing the likelihood that they will face a social stigma and limited employment opportunities due to a conviction in their past. By fully utilizing the Tennessee Statute referred to as Judicial Diversion and Pre-Trial Diversion, even youth who have confessed or who are proven guilty of crimes have avoided a future marred by a permanent criminal conviction.  T.C.A. 40-35-313 and 40-15-115 are both laws that permit us to avoid criminal convictions for those with little of any prior criminal convictions.

How a Criminal Law Lawyer Can Help
Because criminal laws vary from state to state, it is imperative for an individual who is facing criminal charges to consult a criminal defense attorney that is experienced in handling criminal matters in the state in which the alleged crime occurred. Each set of criminal laws are complex and need the expertise, knowledge and commitment of an experienced defense attorney.

At Lannom & Williams, we serve as tireless advocates for each and every one of our clients, as if they were an extension of our own family. We work together to investigate every detail of the situation to ensure our client’s rights are fully protected.

We start by focusing on the constitutional rights of our clients, including the right to be represented by counsel, the right to be free of unreasonable search and seizure, and, if necessary, the right to a jury trial.

Contact Lannom & Williams Today
If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges in Tennessee and are seeking aggressive, thorough representation, please contact Lannom & Williams today. Our defense attorneys understand that the criminal system can be intimidating and overwhelming. Attorneys Frank Lannom and Melanie Bean will fight to protect your legal rights and your individual freedom.

Contact Us

For more information on how the Law Offices of Lannom & Williams can help you, please contact us today.