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Lee Davis

also known as Charles Leland Davis
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Avvo Rating10
  • Chattanooga, TN
  • Licensed for 34 years
  • Free consultation
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About Lee

I have been representing people in court since 1986. I have successfully represented clients in trial and appellate courts throughout the country and I regularly try cases before state and federal court juries.

My career has been varied as I began as a private defense attorney in Boston and then worked for a number of years as a prosecutor when I moved to Tennessee in the early 1990's. Since 1998 I have been in private practice at Davis & Hoss, PC.

Representative cases have included such varied subjects as federal fraud and white-collar cases to innovative homicide cases. I was the first attorney in the United States to introduce mitochondrial DNA as evidence in State vs. Ware. I have been lead counsel in more than 150 jury trials and I have been lead counsel in six death penalty cases. 

As as Assistant District Attorney, I prosecuted serious felony cases including cold case homicide investigations and more than twenty first degree murder cases. 

I ocassionaly serve as Special Prosecutor or as a Special Judge in criminal proceedings in Tennessee.

In civil actions I have represented clients in age discrimination, retaliatory discharge, negligence, accidents, child injury, real estate, and complex personal injury cases.

I have taught Criminal and Constitutional Law at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and previously taught trial practice as an adjunct professor at the University of Tennessee School of Law in Knoxville.

Outside of work I serve on the Allied Arts board as treasure and Chattanooga Boys Choir board as president. My wife, Heather, and I put on the Chattanooga Bike Camp each June teaching kids with disabilities how to ride a bike. I serve on the board of the camp's parent organization--Lose the Training Wheels. I am an active member of the Chattanooga Track Club and a race director of the Signal Mountain Pie Run 10k.

 

Practice areas

OtherWhite collar crimeFederal crimeDUI and DWICriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 33%

    I've represented thousands of individuals faced with investigation or potential criminal charges in federal and state court. My years as a prosecutor has given me perspective as to how best to prepare a defense to serious allegations.

    35 years

  2. DUI and DWI: 30%

    I represented thousands of clients faced with DUI in the state courts Tennessee and surrounding jurisdictions. I've handled dozens of jury trials and appeals to the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals.

    35 years

  3. Federal crime: 10%

    I've represented thousands of individuals faced with investigation or potential criminal charges in federal and state court. My years as a prosecutor has given me perspective as to how best to prepare a defense to serious allegations.

    35 years

  4. White collar crime: 10%

    I've represented thousands of individuals faced with investigation or potential criminal charges in federal and state court. My years as a prosecutor has given me perspective as to how best to prepare a defense to serious allegations.

    35 years

  1. Litigation: 10%

    Federal civil and criminal litigation across the United States. If you are going to court, you will want my detailed and thoughtful legal expertise by your side at your trial. Call immediately for a free case evaluation and stop worrying.

    35 years

  2. Appeals: 5%

    I am capable of handling your case through the appeals process. A successful appeal can be a game changer in your life. Call today for a free evaluation.

    35 years

  3. Sex crime: 2%

    Carnal knowledge | Child enticement & solicitation | Child pornography | Child molestation | Indecent liberties | Online solicitation | Rape | Statutory rape | Sex offender registration | Failure to register | Internet sex crimes | Call today.

    35 years

Languages spoken

Spanish

Photos and videos

3344027 1298082813

3344027 1443746633

Contact

850 Fort Wood Street
address map

Davis & Hoss, PC

850 Fort Wood Street
Chattanooga, TN, 37403

Recent Blog Posts
Criminal Defense

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
TNActive199301/18/2021
MARetired198612/02/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers24
Legal guides1
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
President's AwardChattanooga Bar Association2014
Chattanooga Bar FoundationFellow2013
volunteer recognition certificateLegal Aid of East Tennessee2011
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
Adjunct ProfessorUniversity Of Tennessee At Chattanooga2000 - Present
AttorneyDavis & Hoss, PC1998 - Present
Attorney GeneralDistrict Attorney, 11th Judicial District1993 - 1998
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Chattanooga Bar AssociationTreasurer2014 - Present
American Inns of Court FoundationMaster2013 - Present
Tennessee Bar AssociationFederal Practice section2013 - Present
Chattanooga Bar AssociationBoard of Governors2013 - Present
Chattanooga Bar FoundationFellow2013 - Present
Chattanooga Association of Criminal Defense LawyersN/A2009 - Present
Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense LawyersN/A2005 - Present
National Association of Criminal Defense AttorneysLifetime Member1998 - Present
Federal Bar Association, Federal Litigation SectionFormer Board Member1998 - Present
Chattanooga Bar AssociationN/A1993 - Present
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
Chattanooga Bar AssociationNow that your 182014
Law BlogDavis-Hoss Tennessee Law Blog2013
Athletes in CourtRoger Clemens Redux2012
Athletes in CourtSaints Defensive Coordinator faces possible criminlal charges2012
Tennessee Criminal Law ReviewProsecutor's Note Grounds for Appeal2012
Tennessee Criminal Law ReviewSupreme Court Hears Oral Argument in Cocaine Cases2012
Tennessee Criminal Law ReviewEvolution Bill Becomes Law2012
ChattanooganNote Leads to Request for New Trial2012
Athletes and Coaches Law BlogAthletes in Court2011
Promega Profiles in DNAState v. Paul Ware (mtDNA)1997
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Boston University School of LawJD - Juris Doctor1986
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Sixth Circuit UpdateFederal Criminal Law2016
Chattanooga Bar AssociationBridge the Gap Seminar2013
Federal Trial Barfederal criminal law 6th Circuit2013
Annual ReviewCriminal Law2012
Chattanooga Bar Association, Criminal Law SectionDevelopments in Tennesee Law 20112011
APRIMitochondrial DNA1999
APRIMitochondrial DNA1998
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
State v. Thomas McConnellDismissal of charges
United states v. Colton Partinprobation
State v. DrummDismissal after a jury trial of DUI charges.
Wells v. City of ChattanoogaDirected Verdict in favor of our clients.
State v. Harrison, Docket No. 1422692Dismissal of all charges.
State v. Tawana BlairNot Guilty

Reviews

(10)
5 Star
90%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
10%
Review Lee Davis

Lee Davis is the Absolute Best Defense Attorney!

Posted by

Lee Davis and the entire staff at Davis-Hoss epitomize professionalism in the legal field. And, in a truly unique way, almost unknown in these modern times, temper it with real human warmth and genuine empathy. From the simple (helping me navigate past a court date missed due to a family funeral) to the VERY complex (standing beside me through an unwarranted charge of Assault when I was the actual victim), the firm never wavered and saw me emerge without a blemish on my record. And for a fee even a regular Joe Six-Pack could afford. They've renewed my faith in "the system" to a huge degree.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Best Firm in Chattanooga!

Posted by

I hired Davis and Hoss for a very difficult DUI case. Lee, Janie and Brian worked very hard for me, and after a couple years the case was dismissed! You cannot find better representation in the Chattanooga area. I am so happy I hired them and listened to their advice. I cannot be more thankful and appreciative of them for their hard work and dedication. You will not find anyone in the Chattanooga area who can help you more than Davis and Hoss! Highly recommended!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Fantastic attorney who went above and beyond.

Posted by

I was the victim of an assault but was facing the possibility of criminal charges after the defendants changed their story. Lee guided me through the different phases of the criminal investigation and was not only a strong advocate but an extraordinary source of knowledge who helped make sense of a complex and frightening process. I would have been truly lost without Lee's expert guidance and any client would be fortunate to have him on their side. Lee's knowledge of the law is encyclopedic, and he matches that knowledge with a true passion for advocating on his clients' behalf!
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted attorney

Best Defense

Posted by

Lee Davis represented my son yesterday in Red Bank court. While I know he's been involved in major trials throughout the region, what impressed me was the care and interedt he took in our son's case. Our son's case was dismissed it and what seemed yesterday like a life ending problem is now behind us. Thank you Lee and the staff at Davis & Hoss.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Great Legal Assistance

Posted by

I hired Mr. Davis to represent me in a DUI case. He assisted me through every phase of the case, and made sure I understood what was going on. He worked diligently on my behalf and was eventually able to have my case dismissed. He helped me during such a difficult time in my life and made sure that my mistake did not jeopardize my future. I cannot recommend him highly enough. If you find yourself in legal trouble, make Davis & Hoss your first call.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

best call I ever made

Posted by

The best call I ever made was to Lee Davis. I was the target of a pending federal investigation. I had done nothing wrong, but the government saw things differently. With Lee's help I was able to present my side of things and avoid all criminal charges. I don't think this would have happened without Lee and Stevie another excellent lawyer in the office.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent defense

Posted by

Charges following an auto accident were DUI (prescription meds), open container, not maintaining lane and wreckless driving. Blood alcohol was negative and Mr. Davis skillfully guided me through the process of substantiating legal prescription history for all medications.When the ADA offered a plea bargain to dismiss all but the wreckless charge, he advised me to be patient and not accept the plea. At a subsequent court appearance, he was able to convince the ADA to dismiss the case. Throughout the entire process, Mr. Davis and his entire staff were professional, courteous and effective. I was very pleased with his services.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent attorney for a difficult case.

Posted by

I highly recommend Mr. Lee Davis and his firm. His team did a tremendous job for me and my family when I needed them. Davis & Hoss was recommended to me by a trusted friend and Lee Davis exceeded my expectations. Thank you!

A law genius

Posted by

Mr.Davis kept me calm and very well informed of what was going on in my case. As soon as the words "I would like to hire you as my attorney" came out of my mouth, Mr.Davis took the wheel and steered me in the right direction for the whole unpredictable ride. Mr.Davis did not sugarcoat anything going on he would just shoot me straight and give me all information whether it be positive or negative. Mr.Davis has a God given gift of being quick on his feet in EXTREMELY high pressure situations. I would recommend Mr.Davis for any case that may come up large or small.

Would give Zero stars, if possible.

Posted by

Lee represented me in a civil suit. He came highly recommended from a close friend. While finding myself in such a situation was a nightmare, working with Lee was even worse. He made me feel like a nuisance and never explained what to expect or how we would handle the case. Once the trial started, he didn’t argue any valid points or offer rebuttal. He disappeared to talk to another client during recess, even though I made it clear I wanted to speak to him. The plaintiff had ZERO proof for their allegations and still managed to win a substantial sum of money. All thanks to Lee’s utter disregard for my well-being and complete inaction during the proceedings. If you’re already in a legal situation, don’t make it worse by hiring Lee. Do yourself a favor and hire a lawyer who actually cares.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Lee Davis' response: I was surprised to see this review. I represented this man several years ago on an attempted murder case. The criminal charges were dismissed and expunged from his record. Because the case involved serious injury as the result of a stabbing, there were of course hospital bills. In the civil case the jury awarded 1/2 of the cost of the medical expenses to the alleged victim. At the time you seemed to understand the verdict. There was no question that you caused the man's injuries. We successfully defended you through self defense in the criminal case. As I said in the beginning, I am surprised to see this negative review. I honestly believe I fully and fairly defended you in court and I am sorry that you feel otherwise. Lee Davis

Attorney endorsements

(10)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Fisher Wise, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 4, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Lee is highly respected, highly skilled and always professional. I recommend him without reservation.

Kristen Williams, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 17, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

As a prosecutor I had many cases with Lee. He is by far one of the most skilled and qualified attorneys I have ever had on the other side of a case. Now as a fellow defense attorney, Lee has been a wonderful mentor and someone I have found I can always look to for advice. He is a true asset to the legal community and his clients couldn't have a better advocate.

Samuel Robinson, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 25, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Lee is one of the best attorneys in Chattanooga/Eastern Tennessee. I endorse him without hesitation.

Meredith Mochel, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 26, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Lee Davis is not only a top notch lawyer to his clients but a mentor to younger attorneys who seek his advice. When a family member of mine needed a defense lawyer, Lee handled the case and got an excellent outcome. I am proud to call Lee a mentor and a friend.

Robert Gilligan, Criminal defense Attorney on Jan 6, 2015
Relationship: Other

I endorse this lawyer.

R. Jonathan Guthrie, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 11, 2014
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Having worked with Lee Davis on several cases, he is a professional in all areas of the practice of law. I have collaborated with Lee on several cases including jury trials and court of appeal appearances. I have benefited from watching first hand Lee's work before the jury, arguments to the court, and confidence inspiring interaction with clients. I have no hesitation in endorsing Lee Davis.

Michael Waddington, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 5, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Ryan Hanzelik, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 20, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Lee Davis is a highly skilled criminal defense lawyer who is well respected by everyone in the legal community. He skillfully navigates his way through the criminal process and obtains great results on a regular basis.

Johnny Houston, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 7, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known Lee for years as a fellow attorney, a friend, and a competitor. He hits it out of the park on all levels. I endorse Lee without hesitation.

Brian O'Shaughnessy, Criminal defense Attorney on May 8, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Lee Davis has the rare ability to present nearly any argument in a manner easy to understand, and easier to believe. Additionally, he possesses the knowledge necessary to navigate the criminal judicial system with strategies most defense attorneys have never considered. As a result of this ability and knowledge, Mr. Davis’ successes in the courtroom speak louder than any endorsement I could make.

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