Licensed for 49 years

State TN

Acquired 1974

Status
Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

David Louis Raybin

Criminal defense Attorney at Nashville, TN

About
Contact
Reviews
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Resume

Great Representation and Communication

Experienced and Skilled Advocate

Back in the summer and fall of 2019, I first consulted Mr. Raybin and his firm regarding a tricky situation with a previous employer that could have resulted in possible "white collar" criminal charges. Mr. Raybin was incredibly patient, listening to my story, collecting all the facts, and exploring all the options. He clearly explained all possible avenues and steps he thought were best. He made it a point to not only deeply understand my situation, but also get to know my history and reputation through a comprehensive bio. Next, David skillfully and tactfully engaged with a number of parties on my behalf, including the previous employer, the District Attorney's office, and a state government entity. This process took far longer than I expected, but not because of Mr. Raybin. The other parties were slow to move. However, he made it a point to continually seek updates and advocate for my best interests and outcomes along the way. Some months later, I received an unexpected, but completely welcome phone call from Mr. Raybin advising there had been some movement in my case and that the situation was resolved, over, and done! The outcome was far better than I had ever imagined. I attribute the outcome first to our established mutual trust, which I know to be the most important element of an attorney-client relationship. I also credit Mr. Raybin's experience and networking, as he has considerable experience shaping criminal code through his vast work experience and has established relationships with a number of individuals in the justice field. Lastly, his careful and skilled advocating for his clients is what produces results and favorable outcomes. Although no one enjoys spending considerable money to hire an attorney and deal with complicated legal situations, I could think of no better advocate in Mr. Raybin. I am indebted to him for his advocacy and guidance in navigating legal issues, understanding the justice system, and walking me through each step of the way - not by setting unrealistic expectations and promises, but by helping the client to understand all possible outcomes and providing recommendations for resolutions that are in the client's best interests. I hope I never need Mr. Raybin's services again, but should I be faced with a complex legal situation in the future, he will be my first and only call.

About David

Learn David’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Criminal defense

40%

Named one of Nashville’s best criminal defense lawyers With more than 35 years of experience, David Raybin heads the criminal defense section of our firm, which includes criminal trials, criminal appeals, parole hearings, and civil rights litigation. David has been named the Best Criminal Lawyer in Nashville by Best Lawyers in America, and listed among the Best Criminal Lawyers in TN by Tennessee Business magazine.
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48 years
Federal crime

20%

Named one of Nashville’s best criminal defense lawyers With more than 35 years of experience, David Raybin heads the criminal defense section of our firm, which includes criminal trials, criminal appeals, parole hearings, and civil rights litigation. David has been named the Best Criminal Lawyer in Nashville by Best Lawyers in America, and listed among the Best Criminal Lawyers in TN by Tennessee Business magazine.
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48 years
Appeals

15%

Has handled over 150 appeals in State and Federal Court. Member of Supreme Court bar.

48 years
Civil rights

15%

Named one of Nashville’s best criminal defense lawyers With more than 35 years of experience, David Raybin heads the criminal defense section of our firm, which includes criminal trials, criminal appeals, parole hearings, and civil rights litigation. David has been named the Best Criminal Lawyer in Nashville by Best Lawyers in America, and listed among the Best Criminal Lawyers in TN by Tennessee Business magazine.
... Read more
48 years
Domestic violence

10%

Named one of Nashville’s best criminal defense lawyers With more than 35 years of experience, David Raybin heads the criminal defense section of our firm, which includes criminal trials, criminal appeals, parole hearings, and civil rights litigation. David has been named the Best Criminal Lawyer in Nashville by Best Lawyers in America, and listed among the Best Criminal Lawyers in TN by Tennessee Business magazine.
... Read more
48 years

SOLUTION ORIENTED - LISTED IN BEST LAWYERS IN NASHVILLE - CALL 615-256-6666

Named one of Nashville’s best criminal defense lawyers

With more than 35 years of experience, David Raybin heads the criminal defense section of our firm, which includes criminal trials, criminal appeals, parole hearings, and civil rights litigation.

David has been named the Best Criminal Lawyer in Nashville by Best Lawyers in America, and listed among the Best Criminal Lawyers in TN by Tennessee Business magazine.

A regular commentator on local legal subjects, David often deals with prominent cases you may have read about in the news. In addition to cases in the trial courts, David has successfully handled a number of significant criminal appeals throughout Tennessee.

A prolific writer, David has authored numerous articles and publications. He wrote the book Tennessee Criminal Law, which has been cited hundreds of times by Tennessee courts and relied on by judges and attorneys throughout the state.

David’s criminal defense representation includes cases concerning murder and other homicides, sexual assault, drugs, domestic violence, white-collar fraud, and computer sexual image cases. David also handles cases involving students arrested at local universities—such as Vanderbilt, MTSU, Fisk, Lipscomb, Belmont and TSU.

Awards

Client's Choice

2015 2013

Photos and videos

Contact David

Raybin & Weissman , PC

(615) 338-8581 Office

424 Church Street

Suite 2120

Nashville, TN, 37219

nashvilletnlaw.com/attorneys/david-raybin/

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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

25 customer reviews

5 Star

100%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.

Posted by Timothy | February 7, 2023

Great Representation and Communication

In dealing with an attorney, so often they take your money and then seem peeved when you inquire as to the progress. This is not the case with David. He was always kind, generous with communication, and got the just outcome I so needed!

Response from David Raybin February 7, 2023

Thank you so much. Great client communication with me was the key to success

Posted by T | June 13, 2020

Experienced and Skilled Advocate

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Posted by anonymous | November 30, 2019

Excellent Communication, Great Dedication

I found David Raybin online and called his office to set up a consultation. The consultation was able to be booked within the next few days and I arrived at his office. His office is very nice and the staff were professional and helpful. Mr. Raybin listened to my case, understood it, and provided me with options of how he could help. The cost for representation was up front and clear and a contract was signed. Throughout my representation I was continually contacted and updated with new status of the case. Mr. Raybin was an excellent lawyer and is well known in the industry.

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Posted by Andy | July 10, 2018

10/10

I hired Mr. Raybin at the recommendation of a friend whom had used his services in the past. He came very highly recommended. Mr. Raybin not only handled my questions and concerns, but also gave me a very good idea of what my expectations should be in court. I couldn't be happier with my outcome. I'm very glad I hired Mr. Raybin. I would very highly recommend his services.

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Posted by anonymous | July 2, 2018

Excellent Lawyer!!!

David Raybin was thorough and did an excellent job preparing us for court. His demeanor in the courtroom was impressive. The communication while waiting for trial was very good as well as afterwards. We won our case and would hire him again if we ever needed a lawyer again. Excellent Lawyer!!! The verdict was “NOT GUILTY”

Posted by anonymous | May 29, 2018

Best of the Best

Mr Raybin is the very best attorney one could hope for. He was attentive, responsive, knowledgeable, thoughtful and effective. We could not have been in better hands and have enormous respect for him.

Posted by anonymous | July 21, 2017

Outstanding Counsel and Aid; Avoided All Charges

I contacted David when I was being threatened with felony indictment for a first-time, nonviolent drug offense. He was the only attorney to answer my call (out of four) and immediately provided a thorough evaluation of my circumstances and clear description of his rates. He mentioned that more inexperienced lawyers may antagonize LE by battling the charges, but for this case he would advise cooperation and bargaining (which worked out very well). He advised me to consider all options, but his reviews spoke well and I hired him almost immediately for legal counsel. The first step he took was to request an autobiographical account and detailed summary of all relevant events in order to thoroughly understand my situation. He was extremely experienced--both in law and in understanding the culture and attitude of the specific LEA involved--and knew the best ways to interact with all parties. David worked urgently and was available at any time of day as events unfolded. He provided clear advice and guidance for all steps of the way. He kept in continuous contact before a meeting with LE, ensuring that everything was prepared and accounted for. His meticulous attention to detail, rapid action, and wealth of experience made me feel secure to have him as my counsel. He acted as my liaison to LE to ensure that I wouldn't be harassed or misled. I believe his reputation and character played a large part in the respect afforded to him and subsequently me. At times late into the case I was a bit unsure about the status of everything, but I felt confident that he was on top of it all. With David's help I successfully avoided criminal charges. I believe his history of experience with the people involved was incredibly important. He has a connection with the District Attorney and spoke to him personally about my character: a good person who made a mistake. Without David's counsel I may have ended up with a misdemeanor indictment: meaning more expensive legal fees, a criminal record, and punishment and/or probation. I (and my friends and family) can't thank him enough.

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Posted by anonymous | January 20, 2017

A lifetime of gratitude

We will forever count David Raybin as a true ally and friend. We strongly believe his willingness to fight for us in the confusing and difficult legal world quite literally saved our lives and will allow our family to Mive forward together. When you're facing the worst scenario one could imagine, you want David Raybin on your team. We found him to be honest, fair, and extremely diligent in bringing our case to a close. He is absolutely the best of the best. If you're looking down a dark tunnel and need a glimmer of hope that life will go on someday, David will walk with you every step of the way, answering all your questions and obtaining the best possible outcome. Thank you, David, for everything you have done for us!

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Posted by anonymous | January 18, 2017

A Very Grateful Parent

If there is ever a serious problem with your family and the law, run (don't walk) to the office of David Raybin! He has saved us from injustice, expensive litigation and embarrassment. We come from a family of lawyers, so we knew whom to hire when this bombshell hit us unaware. Thank you, David, for your inspired and caring representation.

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Posted by Mary | October 22, 2015

David Raybin

David Raybin was the best possible lawyer to handle my particular case. He represented me in a professional yet compassionate manner and was very forthright in his assessment of my case. I was involved in a serious incident that could have changed my life for the worse and Mr. Raybin turned it around for me and got me the best possible outcome. He also provided invaluable guidance regarding what steps I should take to help my court case and at the same time confront the issues that led to the incident. I am very gratefull for his advice and representation. And, as others have noted, his standing in the legal community earns him the respect and cooperation from everyone he interacts with, both inside and outside of the courtroom.

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Posted by MD1 | October 20, 2015

David Raybin is a "benchmark" that all attorneys should follow

David Raybin has always treated me with respect, answered my questions,and promptly communicated personally via phone, or email when I had a genuine concern.Having professionally worked with other attorneys for years, I always looked forward to meeting with a true subject matter expert whos area of expertise is law. David Raybin is a lawyer that other lawyers go to for advice and respect his opinion.The courts respect David Raybin, and other lawyers with his firm. One day as I walked into court with David Raybin I observed a few attorneys stop in their tracks to converse w David,with one uttering "watch this this is gonna be good".I felt like I had a Marine combat unit with me. Ultimately,my case was dismissed,my career was preserved and the court knew the facts. I never thought my case would be settled in the hallway leaving me wide open for a repeat performance by the party Mr. Raybin put back into the corner... There's plenty of attorneys covering a lot of ground, but when you don't want to hear a soapbox presentation telling you the fight will never end,it will take years and millions to resolve, this is what you do;Pay for a pro that's not afraid to take a truck head on, and yank the engine out while its moving..........David Raybin is that pro who sets a standard that others should follow.

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Posted by anonymous | October 19, 2015

Expert advice, honest, and personable

David brought decades of experience and intimate legal knowledge to my case and provided honest and relevant advice to achieve a positive outcome. David is well respected in the legal community and was recommended to me. He was personable and never trivialized my questions or concerns, and always made time to communicate. Hiring David has led me to successful outcomes over the past two years.

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Posted by anonymous | October 16, 2015

Best of the best

David Raybin is what every defense attorney should be; fair, aggressive, accessible and consistent. He handled my case with the utmost professionalism and knowledge and most importantly never ignored my concerns or questions. His reputation as an accomplished and knowledgable attorney proved very helpful when working on my case with others. He was able to provide me with a chance that I felt I deserved but was certain that no one else would feel I did. He took the time to understand who I am as a person and not simply as a client. He believed in me and continues years later to do so, as well as reply to any questions or concerns I might have in a very timely manner. I truly feel that I would not have the opportunities I have today if it were not for Mr Raybin. I cannot recommend his services enough.

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Posted by Terry | May 11, 2015

David Raybin Is An Excellent Attorney

In 2008 my husband and I hired David Raybin to represent my husband at his parole hearing. Mr. Raybin stood by my husband throughout his incarceration for almost 7 years until my husband finally obtained his freedom. Mr. Rabin is caring, compassionate and very understanding of the many aspects and problems that people in prison have, as well as their families. Mr. Raybin went above and beyond all that we could ever ask for. He is a true God send. I would HIGHLY recommend him for whatever your legal battle may be.

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Posted by John | February 11, 2015

David Raybin - Thank you

David was recommended to me by a family friend associated with the DA's office in Memphis as the best criminal defense attorney in Nashville. Upon speaking with David I decided to retain his services, and could not have made a better choice. The first thing I noticed when speaking with him was his candid answers, and never telling me it was going to be okay. He thoroughly reviewed the case, gave me an outline of possible outcomes, and never promised the world. The biggest surprise was his promptness regarding communication; coming from the business world I was used to sending a few hundred emails per day and receiving quick responses. David routinely replied to emails well past working hours no matter what day of the week it was. Feeling connected and staying connected to David made me feel better about the situation. He diligently worked the case and kept me in the loop as events developed. At the actual pre-trial conference it was immediately clear how influential David was in the Nashville legal community - upon entering the courtroom he was met with smiles and handshakes by fellow lawyers, court officers, as well as the presiding judge. He was able to negotiate an outcome even better than I had ever hoped for (again because he never promised the world) and left me feeling blessed at the stroke of luck I had in hiring him. After the case concluded, he continued to follow up to ensure I didn't have any other questions, but more importantly to continue to make sure I was making good decisions. David is a top notch lawyer, highly effective communicator, and extremely well respected. Anybody that needs a top-notch lawyer couldn't find a better one. All of my interactions over the past 3 months with David make me his biggest possible advocate.

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Posted by AH | March 12, 2014

Absolutely the Best.

Around two years ago I was faced with the horrid situation of being accused and charged with something that I did not do. Needless to say, this was devastating to myself and my family to even be in this situation. We were extremely scared, extremely frightened, but determined to fight for my innocence. My family and I could not be more thankful that my life was put in the hands of David Raybin as my attorney. His knowledge speaks for itself, but what you may not see from the outside is that in my case he was relentlessly working at whatever hour of the night needed, he went above and beyond to make sure I was extremely well informed, and he did so in a manner that I knew he very much cared about my well being throughout the whole ordeal and even after. Not to mention, because of his diligence and competence of how the system works, he was able to head my case off at the pass getting the charges dropped. To say that we were ecstatic is an understatement. I, as well as my family, we will be forever grateful to David Raybin and his team for what they did for us.

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Posted by anonymous | November 3, 2013

Thanks, David Raybin!

After I was assaulted on my own property by a building contractor, I turned to David Raybin for help and was not disappointed. David Raybin was a phone call away when I needed help. He fought for justice and a handsome settlement. David Raybin listened to my problem and successfully guided me through the justice system. He and his firm were great. Thanks, David!

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Posted by anonymous | October 26, 2013

New Client

David Rybin was the first criminal defense lawyer I have ever used and he came highly recommended. I became involved in a business situation where I unknowingly and unwillingly ended up being an accomplice to criminal offenses. David facilitated my cooperation with authorities and he was able to show authorities that my actions were manipulated by the business owners. David Raybin's knowledge of the law, his experience and reputation were all key factors in his successful defense of my case.

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Posted by anonymous | October 22, 2013

5 stars all the way

A number of years ago, I was extremely distraught over an unacceptable action taken by my child's father during one of his visitations with our daughter. Another lawyer, who had represented me in our child visitation/support hearings, had little to offer in response to this very stressful situation, saying only that these actions, although highly irresponsible, were "within his rights." It was then that I called Mr. Raybin. At that point he took over my case, and successfully fought to establish more appropriate legal boundaries, bringing more structure to an out of control situation. Over the ensuing years, Mr. Raybin was there to guide me through nagging child support issues that had periodically come up. As soon as I would make him aware of any problem, he was always right on it, relieving me of any stress or burden. I'm so very grateful for all his help..

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Posted by anonymous | October 18, 2013

David's Work Saved Our Family

David's knowledge of the law, expert advice and 'tough love' saw our family through the biggest crisis of our lives. Suffice it to say, I committed a crime and it was highly likely I'd end up serving a lengthy prison sentence. I did not see how there could possibly be a happy outcome, nor did I think I deserved one. With David's guidance, I pulled myself together and mounted a strong but honest defense, admitting my mistakes and errors and presenting the best possible story to the Court. It would be an exaggeration to call the outcome a miracle, but in my mind it comes close. I was acquitted and freed to rebuild my life and continue to be with my family. My family and I will always be deeply grateful to David Raybin.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Assistant District Attorney
Office of the District Attorney
1974 - 1985

Education

University of Tennessee College of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1973

Legal Cases

United States v. D. M. Lineberry
Not Guilty

State v DDL
dismissed and expunged

Associations

Nashville Bar Association
Member
1986 - Present

Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Board of Directors
1986 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Member
1985 - Present

Tennessee Association for Justice
Member
1983 - Present

Tennessee Bar Association
Member
1982 - Present

American Bar Association
Member
1974 - Present

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Listed
Best Lawyers in America
2014

Listed
Best Lawyers in Tennessee
2014

AV Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2014

Justice Henry Award for Outstanding Legal Writing
Tennessee Bar Association
2005

Best 100 Lawyers in Tennessee
Business Tennessee magazine
2004

Justice Henry Award for Outstanding Legal Writing
Tennessee Bar Association
1983

View all awards

Publications

Tennessee Bar Journal
Expungement of Arrest Records
2008

Tennessee Bar Journal
State v. Gomez: Tennessee Sentencing Law Violates Sixth Amendment
2007

Tennessee Bar Association Journal
Who's there? The parameters of police 'knock and talk' tactics
2007

Tennessee Bar Association Journal
The Blakely Fix
2005

Tennessee Bar Journal
Stick to Your Guns: Restoration of Firearm Rights
2003

Tennessee Bar Journal
Instructing the Jury in Murder Cases
2002

Tennessee Bar Journal
Obtaining Medical Records For Mental Health Evaluations
2001

Tennessee Bar Journal
Mrs. Burns’ Lesser Included Offense Pyramid
1999

Tennessee Bar Association Journal
Thirteen Tips For Improving Client Relations
1986

Tennessee Law Review
Note, The Abolition of Anonymity
1973

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Zealous Advocacy
2006

Board of Professional Responsibility
Ethics Workshop
2006

American Inns of Court
Internet Technology for the Legal Professional
2006

Tennessee Bar Association
Corporate Criminal Law
2005

Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Blakely v. Washington legislation
2005

Lorman Education Services
Psychological and Psychiatric Evaluations Used During the Trial Process
2005

John Marshall American Inn of Court
Secrets of Successful Negotiations
2005

Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Criminal Law Sentencing Since Blakely v. Washington
2004

Tennessee Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division
Legal Ethics for New Lawyers
2003

Nashville Bar Association
Ethics and Professionalism
2003

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (10)

Given (9)

Endorse David

Craig Thrift

Civil rights Attorney | Feb 24
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

David Ridings

Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Highly Skilled and fierce advocate. Literally wrote the book on Criminal Defense. I endorse Mr. Raybin without reservation."

Michael Waddington

Criminal defense Attorney | May 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse David. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

Trudy Bloodworth

Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. David Raybin is brilliant and a fierce advocate. I highly recommend him for any criminal defense matter you or your family may be facing."

Chong Ye

Unknown Attorney | Aug 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Thomas Dixon

Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Joseph Torri

Unknown Attorney | Sep 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Christian Lassen

Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Talented lawyer."

Vincent Wyatt

Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 25
Relationship: Co-worker

"David Raybin is an oustanding attorney. He literally wrote the book on Criminal Law in Tennessee. He works hard for his clients and gets great results for them."

Randall Reagan

Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"David Raybin is an excellent lawyer. He is the author of "Tennessee Practice: Criminal Practice and Procedure" , an invaluable resource for the criminal defense practitioner in Tennessee. He has written extensively for other publications. His treatise is cited often by the appellate courts in Tennessee. He is a frequent lecturer at seminars throughout the state of Tennessee and elsewhere."

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Craig Thrift

General practice