Chattanooga Criminal Defense Lawyer
How Chattanooga’s Criminal Courts Work After an Arrest
Courtroom Expectations Every Defendant Should Know
Chattanooga’s criminal courts move fast. A single arrest can bring a long list of questions, where to go, who to speak with, and what happens next. Davis & Hoss represents people across Chattanooga who need honest guidance and a strong defense. Our attorneys have decades of experience in Chattanooga courts, including complex felony matters, DUI arrests, domestic violence accusations, and high-stakes federal cases.
When your case starts in Chattanooga, the first steps are critical. You deserve clarity, steady communication, and a plan built from real experience in this city’s courthouse and legal system.
Most Chattanooga charges begin in Hamilton County General Sessions Court, located downtown. This court handles first appearances, bond hearings, misdemeanor cases, and the early stages of felony charges. Daily dockets are busy, with a full schedule of traffic cases, criminal proceedings, and transfer hearings.
After an arrest, you may spend time at Silverdale, which is the Hamilton County Jail, before your first court date. That hearing sets the tone for the rest of the case, bond amounts, deadlines, and conditions of release. Sessions judges expect defendants to appear on time, follow rules closely, and stay in contact with their attorney.
Felony cases may later move to Hamilton County Criminal Court, where motions, jury trials, and negotiations often take place. Davis & Hoss has represented clients at every level of the process in Chattanooga, from first appearance all the way to appeals.
Talk to a Chattanooga Criminal Defense Attorney Today
Get clear direction on your rights, your upcoming court dates, and what comes next
Types of Criminal Cases Handled in Chattanooga
Serious and common charges our attorneys regularly address in Chattanooga courts
DUI and Drug Offenses
Traffic stops in Chattanooga often lead to DUI or drug-related charges, especially on major city routes. From field tests to search questions, small moments during the stop can shape the entire case. Early legal guidance can protect important rights and help preserve evidence.
Domestic Violence
Allegations of domestic violence in Chattanooga move quickly. A single call can result in immediate bond conditions, stay-away orders, or temporary restrictions before a full hearing occurs. These cases are emotional and time-sensitive, making early communication essential.
Sex Crimes
Sex-related accusations in Chattanooga can involve online activity, minors, consent disputes, or relationships with complicated histories. These cases bring long-term consequences and require careful review of digital evidence, statements, and how the allegation began.
White-Collar Crimes
Financial and business-related cases in Chattanooga may involve fraud, embezzlement, forged documents, or disputes arising from professional settings. Even small misunderstandings can escalate into criminal allegations. These matters often require a detailed review of transactions and communication records.
Juvenile Crimes
Chattanooga teens may face charges for school incidents, vaping, shoplifting, or conflicts that escalate. These cases are handled differently than adult matters and often turn on decision-making in the moment. The focus is usually on avoiding long-term consequences and finding a constructive resolution.
Vehicular Homicide
Serious crashes investigated inside Chattanooga city limits can lead to vehicular homicide or related charges. These cases rely heavily on accident reconstruction, medical findings, digital evidence, and witness accounts. The stakes are high, and the facts must be reviewed with precision.
Traffic Violations
Chattanooga drivers cited for speeding, suspended license issues, or multiple violations can face more than fines. Unresolved tickets can lead to missed court dates, license holds, or additional charges. Addressing traffic cases early helps prevent larger legal problems.
Homicide and Violent
Serious allegations such as assault, robbery, or homicide in Chattanooga are handled with close attention to witness statements, self-defense claims, and what evidence is admissible. These cases often depend on how events unfolded and what the available evidence truly shows.
How a Chattanooga Criminal Case Moves Forward
What Happens After an Arrest – Court Dates, Discovery, and Possible Outcomes
Arrest and Booking
Chattanooga Police Department officers, sheriff’s deputies, or state troopers may bring charges that lead to immediate booking at the Hamilton County Jail. Booking creates the official case record and starts the clock for your next appearance.
First Court Appearance
Your first hearing will occur in General Sessions Court. The judge reviews the charge, any bond issues, and the next steps. Judges typically set quick return dates, especially if more information is needed from law enforcement or the district attorney’s office.
Discovery and Negotiation
After your first setting, your attorney can request police reports, videos, witness statements, and laboratory results. Chattanooga police agencies record many interactions through body cameras and dash cameras, which often play a major role in building a defense.
Possible Outcomes
Cases may resolve through dismissal, reduction of charges, a negotiated agreement, or transfer to Criminal Court for further litigation. Every case moves at a different speed, depending on evidence, witness availability, and the type of charge filed.
Chattanooga Court System: Addresses, Judges, Clerks
A complete look at where cases begin, who manages records, and how each court operates across Chattanooga
Main Court Locations in Chattanooga
Courts Building (General Sessions Criminal, Criminal Court & Clerk)
Address: 600 Market Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402
This building handles:
- General Sessions Criminal Court
- Criminal Court (Divisions I, II & III)
- Criminal Court Clerk’s Office
- Traffic Court (Sessions Criminal division)
- Bond hearings
- Preliminary felony hearings
Juvenile Court
Address: 1600 East 3rd Street, Chattanooga, TN 37404
Handles:
- Juvenile delinquency charges
- Juvenile traffic cases
- Unruly child matters
- Custody & dependency cases
- All juvenile-related criminal allegations
General Sessions Criminal Judges
-
Judge Clarence Shattuck
-
Judge Gary Starnes
-
Judge Lila Statom
-
Judge Christie Sell
-
Judge David Bales
These judges rotate dockets and handle:
-
First appearances
-
Bond hearings
-
Misdemeanor cases
-
Traffic cases
-
Preliminary hearings for felony charges
Criminal Court Judges
-
Judge Don W. Poole – Criminal Court Division I
-
Judge Tom Greenholtz – Criminal Court Division II
-
Judge Amanda Dunn – Criminal Court Division III
Felony trials, long-form motions, and sentencing hearings take place in these divisions.
Clerk’s Offices – Who Manages Case Records
Criminal Court Clerk
Vince Dean
Located at 600 Market Street (main courthouse)
Handles:
-
Criminal case files
-
Bond paperwork
-
Indictment records
-
Criminal Court scheduling
-
Payment windows for court costs
General Sessions Criminal Clerk
Located inside the same 600 Market Street building.
Handles:
-
Misdemeanor case files
-
Traffic court records
-
Preliminary hearing scheduling
-
Affidavits of complaint
-
Court appearances & reset forms
Court Timing & Schedule in Chattanooga
Court activity starts early in the morning.
General Sessions Criminal Court
- Morning dockets often begin around 8:30 AM
- Traffic & misdemeanor reviews typically start first
- Preliminary hearings are generally set late morning or early afternoon
- High-volume days may require additional resets
Criminal Court
- Begins at 9:00 AM, unless otherwise noted
- Motions, trial settings, and plea dates are scheduled throughout the day
- Jury trials may last several days
Tip:
Because dockets are crowded, always plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before your hearing to clear security and find your courtroom.
Rules to Follow Inside Chattanooga Courtrooms
The Hamilton County Courts enforce strict rules to keep hearings running smoothly.
Courtroom Conduct
Dress respectfully (no hats, sunglasses, or inappropriate clothing).
Silence phones before entering.
Do not record or photograph inside the courtroom.
Stand when the judge enters or exits.
Address the judge as “Your Honor.”
Do not speak unless instructed to.
Follow all directions from deputies and court staff.
Appearance Expectations
Bring all paperwork related to your case.
Do not bring food or drinks into the courtroom.
Arrive early; being late may result in a bench warrant.
If represented by an attorney, speak with them before the judge calls your name.
Frequently Asked Questions - Chattanooga Criminal Charges
1. Where do criminal cases start in Chattanooga?
Most cases begin in Hamilton County General Sessions Criminal Court at 600 Market Street, Chattanooga, TN. This court reviews the charge, sets the next court date, and handles bond hearings and preliminary hearings.
2. What time does Chattanooga court usually start?
General Sessions Criminal Court often begins around 8:30 AM, while Criminal Court divisions usually start at 9:00 AM. Arriving early helps you clear security and find your assigned courtroom.
3. What happens at my first appearance in Chattanooga?
The judge reviews the charge, confirms your information, and sets bond conditions and the next hearing date. It is usually a short but important hearing.
4. Can my attorney appear for me in Chattanooga court?
For many misdemeanor cases, your attorney may appear without you. Felony hearings almost always require the defendant to be present unless the judge grants specific permission.
5. Who are the judges for Chattanooga criminal cases?
General Sessions Criminal Court may assign your case to Judges Clarence Shattuck, Gary Starnes, Lila Statom, Christie Sell, or David Bales. Felony cases are handled by Judge Don Poole, Judge Tom Greenholtz, or Judge Amanda Dunn in Criminal Court.
6. Who do I contact about my hearing or paperwork?
The General Sessions Criminal Clerk assists with misdemeanors, traffic matters, and preliminary hearings. The Criminal Court Clerk manages felony cases. Both are located inside the 600 Market Street courthouse.
7. What should I wear to court in Chattanooga?
Dress respectfully. Avoid hats, sunglasses, shorts, or clothing with offensive graphics. Courtrooms have strict expectations for appearance and conduct.
8. What happens if I am late or miss my Chattanooga court date?
Missing a hearing may result in a bench warrant. Contact your attorney immediately so they can try to correct the issue and request a new date.
9. How long does it take for a Chattanooga criminal case to move forward?
Some cases move quickly through General Sessions Court, while others take longer depending on evidence, video review, and the district attorney’s schedule. Felony cases take more time if they move to Criminal Court.
10. Do Chattanooga police use body-camera footage?
Yes. Chattanooga Police Department uses body-cameras and dash-cameras widely. This footage often plays a central role in DUI, assault, domestic violence, and traffic-stop cases.
11. How do preliminary hearings work in Chattanooga?
Preliminary hearings happen in General Sessions Court and determine if there is enough evidence for a felony case to move forward. Many Chattanooga hearings are scheduled within two to three weeks after the first appearance.
12. How do I know which courtroom I am in?
Your citation or release paperwork may list the courtroom. If not, the clerk or deputies at the courthouse will direct you to the correct room after you arrive.
13. Where do juvenile cases go in Chattanooga?
Juvenile matters are heard at the Hamilton County Juvenile Court, located at 1600 East 3rd Street, Chattanooga, TN.
14. Will I see the same judge every time?
Not always. General Sessions judges rotate dockets, and felony cases are assigned to specific Criminal Court divisions after indictment.