Dedicated Criminal Defense Attorney Across Northeast Tennessee
If you have been accused of a crime, the experience can be confusing, overwhelming, and frightening. It is important that you have someone by your side who understands the legal system and how it pertains to your situation. The criminal law attorneys at McAfee and McAfee, PLLC in Greeneville, TN, are here to help.
Joseph McAfee
The Natural
Joseph McAfee focuses on criminal law, using strategic tactics to win your case.
Joseph has been licensed to practice law in Tennessee since October 2010. He started his career in commercial litigation involving real estate transactions, estate planning, and other general civil litigation. He went into private practice in 2011 and has continued to be heavily involved in criminal defense, in both federal and state courts. He also handles civil litigation involving contract disputes, landlord tenant cases, construction litigation, and creditor/debtor issues. Additionally, he is also involved with personal injury cases
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What Joseph Can Do For You
Joseph is licensed in state courts across Tennessee, practicing in counties all over East Tennessee, and also licensed to practice in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee, in both Greeneville and Knoxville, as well as the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.
Joseph is a member of the Tennessee Bar Association, past President of the Federal Bar Association for the Eastern District of Tennessee, the Greene County Bar Association, and the Washington County Bar Association and also voted Vice President.
He has been a member of the National Trial Lawyer’s Association top 40 under 40 since 2016.
He teaches a CLE seminar on how to successfully start your own law practice. Mr. McAfee is a zealous advocate and enjoys intense adversarial litigation. He is very diligent and works tirelessly for his clients, sometimes scheduling after hours appointments and weekend appointments. He is committed to the practice of law and being an honest, earnest advocate for his clients!
“I have known Joseph since elementary school. There is a reason I chose him at a time in my life I never expected to experience. He worked with me in a professional manner while giving the relationship a personal touch. In the end, he was able to help me successfully resolve my issue. He answered any and all questions I had in a timely and professional manner. I would highly recommend him to handle any legal needs you may have and are under his realm of expertise.”
-Brian P.
Criminal Law Services
Our attorneys have defended numerous individuals against a variety of charges in both state and federal courts, including:
Homicide
Homicide charges are among the most serious and can include first-degree murder, second-degree murder, manslaughter, and vehicular homicide. Our experienced attorneys provide comprehensive defense strategies to address all aspects of the case, from evidence scrutiny to court representation.
Drug Offenses
Drug offenses cover a broad spectrum, including possession, distribution, trafficking, and manufacturing of controlled substances. We handle cases involving various drugs and pursue defenses that may involve illegal search and seizure, lack of evidence, and entrapment.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving denotes operating a vehicle in a manner that shows a wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. Our attorneys work to mitigate the charges and penalties, which can include fines, jail time, and license suspension.
Driving on Revoked Licenses
Driving on a revoked license is a serious offense that can lead to increased penalties and further revocation. We provide defense strategies aimed at reducing charges and seeking alternatives that keep our clients’ driving records clean.
Theft
Theft charges, such as shoplifting, grand theft, and petty theft, involve unlawfully taking someone else’s property. We explore various defenses, such as lack of intent and misidentification, to protect our clients’ rights.
Forgery
Forgery involves altering, making, or using false documents with the intent to deceive. Our legal team examines all the evidence and intentions behind the alleged crime to build a robust defense.
Burglary
Burglary entails unlawfully entering a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime inside. Our defense strategies focus on disproving the intent to commit a crime and challenging evidence of unlawful entry.
Attempted Murder
Attempted murder refers to taking a substantial step towards causing the death of another person, even if the death does not occur. We investigate all aspects of the case to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and intent.
Sex Crimes
Sex crimes can include a range of offenses such as rape, statutory rape, and child molestation. Our attorneys provide a sensitive and robust defense, examining the evidence and circumstances thoroughly to protect our clients’ rights.
Simple Assault
Simple assault involves causing bodily harm or threatening to cause harm to another person without a weapon. We work to reduce or dismiss charges by highlighting self-defense, defense of others, or lack of intent.
Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault is a more severe form of assault that typically involves the use of a weapon and causes serious injury. Our defense includes scrutinizing the evidence for self-defense claims and procedural errors by law enforcement.
Sexual Assault
Sexual assault covers unwanted sexual contact or behavior against another person. Our attorneys handle these cases with the utmost care, focusing on consent issues, false accusations, and procedural violations during the investigation.
Robbery
Robbery involves taking property from another person through force or intimidation. Our legal team challenges identification procedures, the use of force, and the validity of evidence to defend against these serious charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m arrested in Greeneville, TN?
You have the right to remain silent and to consult an attorney before answering any questions. Clearly invoke these rights by stating that you will not speak without your lawyer present; any statements you make may be used in court.
Summary: Invoke Miranda rights immediately and request counsel to protect your interests.
How do I choose the right criminal defense attorney in Greeneville?
Look for a lawyer with local court experience, strong client reviews, and a clear fee structure. Compare credentials such as Tennessee licensure and trial history, and schedule consultations to find someone you trust.
Summary: Vet attorneys by local expertise, track record, and transparent fees.
What are common criminal charges handled in Greeneville, TN?
Local defense lawyers routinely handle DUI, drug offenses, assault, theft, and domestic violence cases. Misdemeanors and felonies alike require specialized legal strategies; consult an attorney immediately after charges are filed.
Summary: DUI, drug crimes, and violent or property offenses are the most frequent charges.
What is the bail process in Tennessee?
Defendants are entitled to bail set according to Tennessee Code § 40-11-105 unless a judge deems them a flight risk. Bail can be posted via cash, surety bond, or property bond, and a magistrate must consider public safety and defendant ties to the community.
Summary: Bail is a constitutionally protected right, subject to adjustment based on risk factors.
What happens at an arraignment in Greeneville, TN?
At arraignment, charges are formally read, and the defendant enters a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
The court also confirms legal representation, discusses bail if not already set, and schedules future hearings.
Summary: Arraignment is the first court appearance where you hear charges, plea, and scheduling.
How can I get my criminal record expunged in Tennessee?
Eligible charges—such as dismissals or not-guilty verdicts—can be sealed at no cost under Tennessee’s expungement statutes. File a petition with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation; you may need certified court records and a completed application form.
Summary: Expunge qualifying records by petitioning the TBI with supporting documents.
What defenses are available for DUI charges in Tennessee?
Common DUI defenses include challenging probable cause for the traffic stop or accuracy of the blood-alcohol test.
Additional strategies may contest field sobriety test administration or calibration records of breath-testing machines.
Summary: Attack the legality of the stop or testing procedures to weaken the DUI case.
What is the statute of limitations for criminal offenses in Tennessee?
Most misdemeanors must be charged within one year, while many felonies have a three- to six-year deadline; murder and certain violent crimes have no limit. Check Tennessee Code Title 28 for specific timeframes and exceptions for offenses like sexual assault or fraud.
Summary: Filing deadlines vary—some serious crimes have no statute of limitations, while others expire in one to six years.
Learn More About:
The Fighter
← Jessica C. McAfee
Family Law
The Closer
Berkeley Bell →
Personal Injury Law
The Fighter
← Jessica C. McAfee
Family Law
The Closer
Berkeley Bell →
Personal Injury Law
McAfee and McAfee

Hours:
Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Weekends by Appointment