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Ryan David Hanzelik

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Avvo Rating8.2
  • East Ridge, TN
  • Licensed for 15 years
  • Free consultation
Ryan David Hanzelik
Ryan David Hanzelik
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About Ryan

Aggressive divorce and family law representation, and strategic criminal defense.

I am happily married to my wife, Heather, and I am the proud father of three amazingly beautiful daughters.  My life revolves around my family.

 
I started practicing law in 2006 and I have operated a successful law practice since 2007 where I have represented hundreds of clients in personal injury cases, divorces, child custody battles, murder cases, drug cases, business disputes, etc.
 
I have obtained six-figure settlements for some of my clients through aggressive and strategic negotiation.  I have won numerous trials in custody battles.  I have saved clients from life sentences. I have won substantial judgments for clients in contract disputes.
 
I am skilled and experienced in every stage of the litigation process and I possess the ability to be strategical and calculated throughout your case with the ultimate goal of getting you the most favorable result.
 
I work hard for my clients and I keep you informed throughout every stage of your case.
 
Follow me on Facebook at:
http://www.facebook.com/TennesseeLaw
 
Or on Twitter @Hanzelik
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Practice areas

DUI and DWIFamilyDivorce and separationCriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 30%

    I handle criminal defense cases of all sorts: DUI, drug charges, assault, theft, murder, etc.

    15 years

  2. Divorce and separation: 25%

    I handle anything that has to do with family law: divorce, custody, child support, adoption etc.

    15 years

  3. Family: 25%

    I handle anything that has to do with family law: divorce, custody, child support, adoption etc.

    15 years

  4. DUI and DWI: 20%

    I handle criminal defense cases of all sorts: DUI, drug charges, assault, theft, murder, etc.

    15 years

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

1705863 1386171573

Contact

4143 Ringgold Road
address map

Ryan D. Hanzelik

4143 Ringgold Road
Suite A 1/2
East Ridge, TN, 37412

Website
https://TheHanzelikFirm.com

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
GAActive Member in Good Standing 202002/18/2021
TNActive200602/16/2021
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers62
Legal guides2
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Client's Choice Award 2020AVVO2020
Client's Choice Award 2019AVVO2019
Client's Choice Award 2018AVVO2018
Client's Choice Award 2017AVVO2017
Client's Choice Award 2016AVVO2016
Client's Choice Award 2015AVVO2015
Client's Choice Award 2014AVVO2014
Clients' Choice Award 2013AVVO2013
Award of ExcellenceEast Tennessee Chapter of the Society for Technical Communication1999
Lifetime MemberGolden Key National Honor Society1998
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
Owner/AttorneyRyan D. Hanzelik, Attorney at Law2007 - Present
Summer AssociateSymbion Healthcare2004 - 2004
Summer AssociateHanzelik & Associates2003 - 2003
AsscoiateHanzelik & Associates2002 - 2007
Owner/ProgrammerDigital Reformation2001 - 2002
ConsultantStonebridge Technologies2000 - 2001
Lead Programmer4Impact Corporation1998 - 2000
ProgrammerCity Online of Knoxville1997 - 1998
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
State Bar of GeorgiaMember2020 - Present
State Bar of Georgia, Family Law SectionMember2020 - Present
State Bar of Georgia, Criminal Law SectionMember2020 - Present
State Bar of Georgia, Business Law SectionMember2020 - Present
State Bar of Georgia, Entertainment and Sports Law SectionMember2020 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember2015 - Present
License to Practice United States District Court for Eastern District of TennesseeAttorney2012 - Present
Chattanooga Association for Criminal Defense LawyersMember2008 - Present
Golden Key National Honor SocietyLifetime Member1998 - Present
Tennessee Bar AssociationMember2006 - 2007
Pro Bono/Public Action Legal SocietyFundraiser2004 - 2005
Law and Technology SocietyTreasurer2003 - 2005
American Bar AssociationMember2002 - 2008
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
AVVOHow Do I Prepare For A Divorce?2014
Divorce BlogTN Divorce Blog2013
AVVOHow Do I Modify My Child Support2013
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
University of Memphis - Cecil C. Humphreys School of LawDoctor of Jurisprudence2005
University of Tennessee, Knoxville (main)Bachelor of Arts, Cum Laude2000
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Elementary SchoolMock Trial Judge2013
McCallie SchoolMy Story2007
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
$41,500 for Pedestrian CollisionSettled for $41,500
$62,000 Settlement for Head-on Collision with Drunk DriverSettled for over $62,000
Dad Wins Custody; Modified Parenting PlanDad won custody.
$125,000 Settlement for Car AccidentCase settled for $125,000
$125,000 Settlement on Wrongful DeathSettled for maximum $125,000
1st Degree Murder; Life Sentence Avoided.Avoided Life Sentence, 4 years probation.
3 Lbs. of Marijuana Suppressed and Case DismissedCase dismissed on Defendant's Motion to Suppress.

Reviews

(120)
5 Star
99%
4 Star
1%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Review Ryan Hanzelik

The best lawyer and man you could hire...

Posted by

I have used Ryan two separate times. What he has done for me and my daughter wasn't just professional and his job, it was way above and beyond what I feel anyone else would have done and was life changing for us. I paid Ryan for a divorce in 2009, then called it off b/c my ex wife and I were trying to reconcile. After that effort, she still wanted to go through the divorce so I called Ryan up for help. Not only did Ryan help, he said I'd already paid him for the divorce so he handled it at no additional cost to me. He could have easily charged me with it being a new case number and so much time elapsing, but he didn't. Then, this year, I needed to try and get custody of my daughter. I called Ryan. Ryan knows I don't have a lot of money and we came up with his fee and proceeded. Ryan went through a lot of trouble and frustration before my ex finally retained counsel, who made every step of our process difficult and tedious. Ryan never asked me for anything more even though in truth, he had to put so much more time and effort into my case than I'm sure he ever imagined. Had he done what I believe most would have, which is stop and ask for more money or withdraw from the case, my daughter could still be living in a bad situation to this day. She's not and I have only Ryan to thank for that. Ryan was always open with his communication with me, always willing to explain things to me and always willing to hear my suggestions. He offered advise, but if I insisted something, Ryan went by my wishes as long as they weren't going to hurt me. There were times Ryan would research things and send them to me simply to better inform me, which again I believe is over and above what many others would have done. I could go on for days at what Ryan Hanzelik's work and more importantly, his compassion for my situation did for my life, but the best way I can sum it up is that I called Ryan Hanzelik to be my lawyer and ended up with him being my friend, someone I'd do about anything for and a person that left an impression with me that'll never be erased. I'll never have to think for a few minutes about what my lawyer's name was, I'll always remember what he did for me. I'd recommend Ryan to anyone for anything and if I ever need legal services again, his number is the only one I need. He's everything you'd never expect a lawyer to be. You won't regret using him.

Outstanding Attorney

Posted by

Ryan is a consummate professional who knows his craft and understands how to navigate the legal system with skill and expertise. Ryan went out of his way to keep me informed and up to date on the status of my case and options. Ryan settled my issue with very favorable results. If you are looking for a compassionate professional who delivers results and truly cares about you as a person Ryan is your man. If I every need an Attorney in the future Ryan is my choice.

Ryan Hanzelik embodies the value of a compassionate yet agressive approach to my complex divorce.

Posted by

I live in North Carolina and thought my divorce would unfold here. My (now ex) wife had moved to Tennessee, where her divorce compliant preceded mine. My NC lawyer did some investigating for divorce lawyers in Chattanooga and I feel very fortunate that I was introduced to Ryan Hanzelik, who was the perfect lawyer to handle my complex case. Ryan helped me weather twists and turns that were difficult for me to manage emotionally. Ryan's compassionate yet clear and direct communication style helped me sort out the important elements of the case from the emotional snares that were confounding distractions from achieving the best outcome for me. With the distance and the pandemic, all of our interactions were by phone or online. Ryan took the time necessary to get to know me, understand what was important to me and provide a bridge from NC to TN divorce law. He did a great job of helping me navigate and make sense of TN divorce law with the perfect blend of painting the bigger picture while taking the time to explain nuance/details. He was an excellent coach who helped me put my best foot forward for online court proceedings. He was quick to return my voicemails with an empathetic ear, yet saved me money by contacting me only when there was a significant development in the case. He eased my mind as both of us struggled through a variety of confusing tactics employed by my ex-wife and her lawyer - right up to the final decree. I felt like Ryan had my back at every turn as he cut through the confusion with an accurate and comprehensive understanding of TN law. He was skillful in his ability to challenge the situations that emerged by fighting to mitigate the unjust impacts on me. Ryan fought hard for me as the protracted battle lasted almost two years, and he was transparent/fair regarding his fees throughout. I highly recommend Ryan without reservation. I continue to enjoy his steadfast adherence to his principles, his compassionate approach to getting to know his Clients, his clarity on when/how to be aggressive and his playful sense of humor. Whatever the nature of your legal problem, Ryan has the clarity, skills, knowledge and experience to co-create with you the best possible resolution.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

A very satisfied customer

Posted by

Mr Hanzelik did an amazing job for us in a custody case for our infant grandson. He is very thourough and patient. He has had our back every step of the way. The outcome was in our favor but even if it wasn't I would still be writing this review. I reccomend him whole heartedly. Should I need representation again, he has earned my business and most importantly, our trust. Doug Woodruff
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

GREAT

Posted by

He was fast in completing everything and was very professional. i would highly recommend Ryan. He settled my divorce that had been lingering for over a year.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Responsive and would recommend highly

Posted by

Ryan was able to resolve my divorce in a very timely manner and with the result I wanted. Would highly recommend his services!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Phenomenal Attorney!

Posted by

Ryan Hanzelik has been a phenomenal attorney. Me. Hanzelik represented me in an uncontested divorce case. He was able to work with my ex-husbands attorney to come to an agreement and avoid the hassle and expense of a contested divorce. Going through a divorce is never easy, but he has been wonderful to work with and has made the process easy. He has been incredibly responsive and has communicated with me every step of the way. I can’t begin to thank him for all that he has done for me in representing me. I would recommend Mr. Hanzelik to anyone looking for legal representation!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Divorce finalized by phone this morning

Posted by

I would recommend Ryan to anyone. He made my divorce, fast, stress free and easy. Just finished this morning. Thanks Ryan!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

MUST READ!!!

Posted by

Take the time to read this review. Hopefully my experience with Ryan will help convince you that he is by far the best attorney in the Chattanooga area. I can honestly say that because I had two other attorneys for the same case before I retained him. I had what should have been an easy divorce turn into an absolute nightmare! The first attorney I hired, was a complete waste of money and literally didn’t not know what she was doing. (Her last name is Fiddler - be warned lol). After it was obvious that she was hurting me more than supporting me, I retained another attorney (His last name is Byrd). After spending thousands with him and never even meeting him in person! I decided it was time to research and get an attorney who would fight for me. Then I found Ryan Hanzelik. Ryan worked hard for me. He would call me on weekends where he had gone to the office to work my case. He communicated with me throughout the entire case and never ignored my calls to him. I quickly realized that he knew his stuff. As good as Ryan was during the prep, I was blown away with how good he was in the courtroom! I’m not kidding. It was like watching Matlock in person. He was so good that the case for my ex crumbled while he was cross examining her key witness! We didn’t even get far enough to present my side of the case. No lie: the opposing attorney looked over at him after the witness was dismissed from the stand and said to my attorney : “I think you did too good of a job.” It was amazing! The judge dismissed the witnesses credibility immediately after Ryan was finished cross examining him. I literally went from my ex going for $130k in alimony from me to NOTHING! I was blown away. So, take it from me, this is your guy. Hands down. I can say this from my own experience. He is my lawyer for life!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

By Far The Best of the Best!

Posted by

I recently had two charges against me in TN where I had a Felony Reckless Endangerment and a Misdemeanor Leaving the Scene of an Accident. I was worried that the charges were inaccurate and misappropriated to the incident, so I contacted Ryan. After reviewing the incident and associated charges, he made me much more comfortable by explaining the process and what he felt would be his best defense. I left it up to him and, let me not sugar coat this next part: He got my charges completely dismissed and filed my expungement immediately after. All of this before I had to appear a second time in court! The state allows for 3 years for the insurance claim to be filed, and he handled the entire situation in under 3 months, with only my first court appearance (after arraignment.) If you have concerns, his consultation is free. It was worth every penny to hire Ryan and I would, and will, recommend his services as a defense attorney to anyone who is in need of reliable, dependable, and involved representation. Ryan cared about me and about my case. It mattered to me and now I don't have to worry about the legal system taking advantage of me or pressuring me. I trusted Ryan and it was definitely worth it. You should too. Thank Ryan!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(18)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Samuel Byrd, Family Attorney on Jan 3, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Ryan Hanzelik is a respected colleague in the Chattanooga family and divorce law bar. He advocates strongly for his client's interests while maintaining professional bearing and courtesy.

Lee Davis, Family Attorney on Dec 21, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse Ryan Hanzelik as an outstanding lawyer. Ryan practices criminal and family law from his office in East Ridge, TN. Ryan regularly appears before courts in and around Chattanooga. He is well respected by his fellow attorneys and is a strong advocate on behalf of his clients. Judges know and trust Ryan's judgment.

Richard Pettit, Family Attorney on Jun 3, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

R. Best, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 6, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mr. Hanzelik is a well respected attorney in the Chattanooga area. I strongly endorse this attorney.

John Ralls, Personal injury Attorney on Jul 29, 2014
Relationship: Other

I endorse this talented and knowledgeable attorney, who is well-respected in the legal community.

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

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

Kathy Rowell, Family Attorney on May 12, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Ryan fights very hard for his clients to obtain their objectives.

Samuel Byrd, Family Attorney on Jan 3, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Ryan Hanzelik is a respected colleague in the Chattanooga family and divorce law bar. He advocates strongly for his client's interests while maintaining professional bearing and courtesy.

Derric Augusta, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 28, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Randall Larramore, Divorce and separation Attorney on Dec 26, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I have been in opposition to Mr. Hanzelik on various occasions and have found him to aggressively prosecute and defend his cases. I have found Mr. Hanzelik to be extremely thorough in conducting discovery and presenting his legal and factual defenses to the Court. Every non-frivolous issue which could be raised was raised, and was presented in an effective manner. Despite his aggressive practice, Mr. Hanzelik has always conducted himself as a gentleman and consummate professional. In my experience Mr. Hanzelik is both an effective advocate and a pleasure to work with under circumstances in which the parties often harbor significant animosity.

Alan Beard, Family Attorney on Dec 22, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. Ryan is a steady, knowledgeable attorney. Very competitive and seems to have he respect of our local judges.

Lee Thompson, Family Attorney on Dec 21, 2013
Relationship: Other

I have no problem recommending Mr. Hanzelik as an attorney. I see Ryan primarily in the family law area on this site but he does provide other legal services. His answers here are clear and to the point and no doubt beneficial to those seeking legal help.

Lee Davis, Family Attorney on Dec 21, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse Ryan Hanzelik as an outstanding lawyer. Ryan practices criminal and family law from his office in East Ridge, TN. Ryan regularly appears before courts in and around Chattanooga. He is well respected by his fellow attorneys and is a strong advocate on behalf of his clients. Judges know and trust Ryan's judgment.

Kelli Black, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 17, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Lawrence Zimmerman, Family Attorney on Dec 16, 2013
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I endorse this lawyer. Ryan is a very thoughtful and compassionate attorney. He is honest, ethical and will not stop until achieves the best possible results for his clients. I have watched him analyze situations, and he constantly makes the right call when coming up with a strategy to protect a person's interests. I would not hesitate to hire him.

Mike Little, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 13, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Russell Lewis, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 12, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Ryan is an outstanding lawyer. I endorse this lawyer without reservation.

Samuel Robinson, Family Attorney on Dec 12, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Ryan is a good lawyer who goes the extra mile in helping his clients. He is reliable, has a solid knowledge of the law, and has the experience necessary to help his clients get good results. I highly recommend him to anyone needing a Tennessee attorney.

Andrea Hayduk, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 3, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Ryan is a very knowledgeable and talented criminal defense lawyer dedicated to getting the very best results for his clients. He conducts himself in an ethical and professional manner at all times and is well respected by the legal community.

Samuel Gowin, Family Attorney on Aug 7, 2013
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

Great guy and does great work for his clients

Cost

RATES
    • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs120 minutes
    OTHER BILLING TYPES
    • Contingency A contingency fee is the percent of the final award a lawyer will receive as compensation. For some of these cases, lawyers will only be paid if there is a successful outcome.33%-33%
    PAYMENT METHODS

    Cash, Check, Credit Card

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