Recent Tennessee Decisions
The Tennessee Supreme Court and Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals publish opinions every week that change the day-to-day practice of criminal defense in Middle Tennessee. Some of those decisions widen what’s defensible. Others close doors prosecutors used to keep open.
This page tracks the ones that matter. Each summary is a short, plain-English read written for defendants, families, and the lawyers who refer cases to me. Every post links to the official opinion so you can read the original.
How to read these summaries
Each post follows the same format:
- The Holding — what the court actually decided, in one or two sentences
- Why It Matters — practical impact for someone facing a similar charge in Davidson, Williamson, Rutherford, Sumner, or Wilson County
- Statute / Rule References — the specific Tennessee Code Annotated section or Rule of Evidence the case turns on
- Link to the Opinion — read it for yourself on the Tennessee Courts website
These are summaries, not legal advice. Holdings get refined, distinguished, and sometimes overruled. If you have a pending case that touches one of these issues, don’t rely on a summary — call me.
Why I write these
Most criminal defense websites are static — “we handle DUI, call us.” This page is different. Every appellate decision I summarize here is one I’ve already worked through for my own practice. Putting them in plain English on a public page is a teaching exercise for me and a resource for the people most affected.
If a case I summarize is one I was counsel of record on, I’ll say so directly.
Looking for a specific case or topic?
Browse the [post archive below] or use the search bar at the top of the page. Posts are tagged by practice area — DUI, drug, violent, sex crimes, property crimes, post-conviction, sentencing — so you can filter to your situation.
Charged with a crime in Middle Tennessee?
If reading appellate opinions is bringing you to this page because you have a pending case, call (615) 664-8083 for a free consultation. I review the charging document, walk you through the procedural posture, and tell you what your case actually looks like — not what the State wants you to think it looks like.
N. Cate Law 222 2nd Avenue North, Suite 220 Nashville, TN 37201 [catelaw.com](https://catelaw.com)
Information on this page is general and does not constitute legal advice. Holdings cited may evolve as later cases distinguish or overrule them. Contact N. Cate Law for case-specific guidance.