Tennessee Gun Charges and Self-Defense Claims: Know Your Rights
February 20, 2026
Gun charges in Tennessee frequently stem from possession violations, brandishing weapons, or public discharges. When self-defense enters the equation, these cases turn into intense disputes over imminent threats, reasonable force, and legal protections. At Hagar & Phillips in Lebanon, we defend Middle Tennessee clients navigating these high-stakes situations.
Tennessee offers robust self-defense laws through its Stand Your Ground statute (Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-11-611), which removes any duty to retreat when you're lawfully present and not committing a crime. Deadly force becomes justifiable against imminent death, serious bodily injury, or specific felonies like burglary or robbery. The Castle Doctrine strengthens this protection inside homes, vehicles, or businesses, presuming reasonable fear during unlawful armed entries.
Common scenarios include unlawful carrying in prohibited areas like schools or bars. Permitless carry remains legal for those 21+ since 2021, but restrictions persist. Displaying a firearm might escalate to aggravated assault charges, while stray shots could trigger reckless endangerment. Self-defense success hinges on proportionality: deadly force requires a matching deadly threat, and mere brandishing rarely qualifies without clear escalation.
In court, prosecutors bear the burden to disprove self-defense beyond reasonable doubt. Strong cases build on immediate 911 calls, surveillance footage showing the threat sequence, physical evidence like wound patterns, and character testimony ruling out aggression. Expert accident reconstruction often clarifies chaotic moments, while body camera footage can expose hasty arrests lacking full context.
Beyond criminal penalties, even dismissed charges threaten professional licenses, security clearances, temporary restraining order eligibility, and family court standings. Felony gun convictions impose long-term firearm bans, with limited paths to restoration.
If facing gun charges, exercise your right to silence immediately. Contact Hagar & Phillips at 615-784-4588 for confidential guidance from our criminal defense team. We safeguard your rights and Second Amendment protections.
