Kevin Kennedy Law Firm | Former Prosecutor | 615-205-7311. Call or text for a free consultation.
Receiving a criminal citation instead of being taken to jail can make a charge seem minor. It is not. A criminal citation means that law enforcement has accused you of a criminal offense and has directed you into the court process without making a custodial arrest at that moment.
Kevin Kennedy is a Nashville criminal defense lawyer and former Davidson County prosecutor. He can review the citation, explain the booking and court process, identify defenses, and work to avoid a conviction whenever the facts and law allow.
What Is a Criminal Citation in Tennessee?
- Tennessee law allows officers in qualifying misdemeanor situations to issue a citation in lieu of taking the person into custody. The citation does not dismiss or reduce the criminal charge. It changes the way the person initially enters the court system.
- The citation typically contains instructions concerning booking, processing, or a future court appearance. Ignoring those instructions can create additional problems, including the possibility of a warrant.
Common Charges That May Begin With a Citation
- Simple possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia.
- Public intoxication.
- Disorderly conduct.
- Criminal trespass.
- Vandalism.
- Driving on a suspended or revoked license.
- Leaving the scene of an accident.
- Certain underage alcohol offenses.
- Other misdemeanor offenses when citation procedures are legally available.
Do I Still Have to Be Booked?
- A criminal citation can require later booking or processing even though the person was not physically arrested at the scene. The exact procedure depends on the citation and the local court process. A lawyer can review the paperwork before the scheduled date so the client knows what to expect.
What Happens if I Ignore a Criminal Citation?
- A criminal citation should never be treated like junk mail or an ordinary parking ticket. Missing a required appearance or booking date can result in a warrant, failure-to-appear problems, or additional court complications.
- If you already missed the date, the defense should determine immediately whether a warrant or capias has been issued and what court action is needed.
Can a Criminal Citation Be Dismissed?
- Yes, depending on the evidence and charge. The same defenses that may apply after an arrest can apply to a citation case: lack of proof, witness problems, unlawful searches or seizures, mistaken identity, statutory defenses, and other weaknesses.
- In appropriate cases, the defense may seek dismissal, diversion, reduction, or another resolution designed to avoid or minimize a permanent criminal record.
Talk With a Nashville Criminal Citation Lawyer
If you received a criminal citation in Nashville or Middle Tennessee, call or text Kevin Kennedy Law Firm at 615-205-7311 for a free consultation.
This page provides general information and is not legal advice.