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Johnny D. Houston Jr.

Criminal defense Attorney at Chattanooga, TN

5.0   56 reviews
  • State Years
    Georgia - GA 33 years
    Tennessee - TN 34 years
  • Licensed for 33 years
    State GA
    Acquired 1990
    Status
    Active Member in Good Standing No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 34 years
    State TN
    Acquired 1989
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Johnny

Learn Johnny’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    50%
    DUI | Drug charges | Violent crimes | Theft, burglary & robbery | Sexual assault | Expungements | Probation violations | Internet offenses | More | Call Attorney Houston today for a free consultation.

  2. DUI and DWI
    25%
    More than 1.5 million Americans face DWI/DUI charges each year. They are often confused by the arrest process and fear losing their driver's license or jail time. Stop worrying, Attorney Houston is able to handle your DUI case. Call now.

    34 years

  3. Car accident
    15%
    Have you been injured in a car accident due to a careless driver? You should consult with an attorney for help obtaining the compensation you need after another driver's negligence caused you harm.

  4. Nursing home abuse and neglect
    4%
    We trust the nursing home management team and staff to take care of their medical, physical and emotional needs. When an elderly parent or grandparent is injured because of neglect or misconduct, families feel a real sense of betrayal.

  5. Medical malpractice
    3%
    Most doctors and nurses are professionals dedicated to providing high-quality medical care, but when a mistake happens, the results can be catastrophic.

  6. Trucking accident
    3%
    In a collision, passenger vehicles cannot withstand the size, weight and speed of semis and 18-wheelers. Call Attorney Houston today for a free consultation.

For over 30 years, people faced with a DUI or criminal charges have relied upon me to make sure that one mistake did not ruin their family, career and/or livelihood.

 

The lawyers at my firm have over six decades of experience handling criminal matters from virtually every perspective.  I am not ony a lawyer, but I have been judge for the City of Red Bank handling criminal matters for over 15 years.  My partner, Bret Alexander, is a former DUI prosecutor as well as an assistant U.S. Attorney.  

 

No other firm in town offers the criminal defense, judicial and prosecution experience that we do. All of these things contribute to getting the best result possible for our clients. We are not allowed to say we are the best attorneys in Chattanooga, but most of our clients think so.

Contact Johnny

Similar lawyers nearby

Houston & Alexander, PLLC
3417 Dayton Blvd.
Chattanooga, TN, 37415

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  56 customer reviews
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Posted by Samantha | January 26, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Nothing Short of Amazing
I am an out of towner and ran into some trouble in Tennessee. I found Johnny Houston online and I could not be more satisfied with the outcome of my case. Johnny was honest,stayed in contact, and I believe could not have done a better job . I highly recommend Johnny Houston and I thank him and his team for everything they did for me! I can breathe again!
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Posted by Ty | May 19, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best decision for my worst mistake
Back in October I made the massive mistake of driving after some drinks at a concert because I felt like I was fine to do so. I was pulled over for gliding off the road for a second due to falling asleep, as it was very late, and taken to jail for the first time in my life. Despite some difficult facts of my case. (BAC was over the limit .11) Mr. Houston was able to persuade the DA to reduce my charge to Reckless Driving. I want to thank Mr. Houston and the rest of the team for their hard work on my case and for giving me their best. If you need an attorney hire these guys. They will shoot you straight and work hard for you.
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Posted by Nancie | May 19, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great attorney
My daughter was basically in the wrong place at the wrong time. We do not live in the State of Tennessee, so we were not sure where to turn. I contacted Houston & Alexander and spoke with Johnny Houston. He immediately put us at ease and we knew we had chosen the right attorney. Ultimately, the case was completely dismissed and the charges were taken off my daughter's record. Could not be happier with the representation.
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Posted by anonymous | April 17, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Would be 6 Star if able
I am a professional in the transportation industry and keeping my license is my livelihood. I was faced with a charge that could have ruined my career if I had been convicted. Johnny was easy to talk to, very accessible every time I called and he kept me informed. When we went to court, I could not believe how friendly he was with all the court personnel. I observed him talking to the DA and arresting officer as soon as he entered the court room before court ever started, Before I knew what happened, the case was over and my charge was reduced to speeding! Even during an election year when the DA is trying to make a name for himself Johnny made this happen. Great outcome and I could not be happier. I can finally sleep again!"
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Posted by Jack | October 18, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Hard case to handle, Houston got it handled!
I hired Mr. Houston to represent me for a DUI in Soddy Daisy Court. The case looked unwinnable but Mr. Houston found a legal issue that kept the alcohol result from coming into evidence. If you need an attorney, call Houston & Alexander, they are the best
Posted by eddy | March 1, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
My hero
I was in the United States on a work visa. I had an accident and was charged with DUI. This charge caused me great trouble both personally and professionally as it affected my being able to stay in this country. It took a long time and there were some difficulties but Johnny's legal knowledge and experience as well as respect from the DAs and Judges that all contributed to having my charges reduced. The staff at Houston & Alexander were also very responsive and informative and really went the extra mile. Thanks, thanks, thanks for helping me to expand my future.
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Posted by anonymous | August 6, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best!!
I had an accident and was charged with leaving the scene. I know in the scheme of things that my case was not near as serious as most of the cases they handle but Johnny and his team treated me well and got the dismissal I was looking for. When we went into the courtroom, it was obvious Johnny had the respect and friendship of the Judge and the courtroom personnel and I knew I was in good hands.
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Posted by Courtney | June 2, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Medical Professional
I am a medical professional and faced potentially losing my license in addition to the legal ramifications. I worked with both Bret Alexander and Johnny Houston, both of whom treated me with respect and dignity during a really difficult time. Their entire staff was friendly and responsive, and though my journey lasted just a few months, every possible outcome was thoroughly explained to me so I knew what to expect. Obviously, I don't hope to have to use them again, but if I did, I wouldn't hesitate to use this firm, and I would recommend them to anyone. Thank you, Johnny, and thank you Houston and Alexander!
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Posted by anonymous | May 5, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
My life was saved
I was a student at a college near Chattanooga. I was accused of a very serious crime. My parents lived out of state and didn't know who to turn to. We found Mr. Houston and Mr. Alexander online and decided to meet with him. From the get go I knew he was the lawyer that I wanted. He convinced the DA and the detective and my parents and I to take the case slow and not rush anything which was a real possibility. We worked with him and my case for about a year. He convinced the DA and the detective to look at my case a different way. Ultimately my case was dismissed before it even went before the judge. To say my life was saved is the biggest understatement anyone could ever make. I wholeheartedly recommend this law firm.
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Posted by Tana | May 2, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Attorney
My husband and I live in the western United States. We traveled to Chattanooga for a Medical matter. We had just arrived that night and had no friends or family in the area. That evening we had an alleged misunderstanding with someone regarding our keys. Things got out of control and the next morning we were arrested and charged with Felonies. In my opinion we were over charged. Desperate we searched for an Attorney. We Called Johny and he agreed to meet with us right away. Johnny was attentive and listened with Empathy. Facing possible jail time and the loss of my husbands job we were terrified. Johnny literally rescued us by swiftly mapping out a plan of action. When we went to court Johnny took the lead, met with the DA and the alleged victim and really smoothed things over. It was apparent Johnny was well respected in the courtroom. He was confident and appeared to get along well with the Prosecutors and Judges. I really think the Experience, Confidence , Respect and honesty he shows in the courtroom with all parties truly affected our case. In the end our cases were passed on good behavior and are set to be dismissed . Johnny also saved us an extraordinary Amount of money by getting our appearance for our return court date waived. We were very fortunate to find Johnny. He is a stand up Gentleman who went above and beyond to help us In our time of need. Thank You, Tana
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Posted by anonymous | April 30, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wow!
"I made a mistake five years ago. I was addicted to drugs and i plead guilty to several drug offenses. I relapsed while on probation and a warrant for my arrest was issued. I moved to another State and got into trouble there too. Through the grace of God and with the help of some great people, I turned my life around. I stopped using drugs, got married and was able to get a great job. The warrant was still hanging over though and every day I was afraid of what would happen, would I get arrested on the job, would I be able to make bond? It was very stressful. I called Johnny Houston and I am glad he did. We did not meet in person but spoke often on the phone and via text. He got my case in court quickly. I was very nervous about my outcome but i trusted Johnny to handle things. THE REVOCATIONS WERE DISMISSED! Not only can I get on with my new life, Johnny is also going to help me get my license reinstated. This is a crazy time and I am thankful I called Houston & Alexander to help me. It literally SAVED MY LIFE!
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Posted by Colleen | April 6, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best of the best
I had hired another law firm and they were getting nowhere with my case. I I was charged with multiple offense DUIs and other charges. Not sure where to turn I contacted the law office of Houston and Alexander. Johnny Houston went the EXTRA MILE! The other law firm negotiated a sentence that may have made me lose my house, my children...everything. Johnny was able to not only get my charges reduced but also the sentence net result was I was able to keep my family together. I have really turned my life around and things are going great! Johnny did not forget about me once the case was over,either. I needed help getting my license and also help with respect to the supervision and Johnny jumped on it!!! He filed paperwork, contacted the DA and the judge and everything worked out better than I could have ever imagined. If you need help “HIRE THIS FIRM!!!”
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Posted by David | November 21, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
My DUI Representation
I made a mistake and was driving when I had a bit too much to drink. I was pulled over and honestly, I said some things I should not have to the officer who was just doing his job. To make matters worse, I had a previous DUI nine and a half years before, so I was charged with a 2nd offense and had to wear an alcohol monitor that immediately became troublesome. Given that I am not a TN resident, I hired an attorney from out-of-state and things were not going my way. Houston & Alexander were recommended and they took over my case. Things immediately got better! At our first court appearance, the mutual respect between the judge and Johnny Houston was obvious. Long story short, my 2nd offense was reduced, I did not lose my job and I could not be happier with the representation from this firm. After the plea, a couple of issues popped up and Houston & Alexander were still there for me, returning my phone calls and providing excellent service. I highly recommend this firm!
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Posted by Madeline | July 25, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
These Lawyers Mean Business
I made a mistake and should not have been driving. I was involved in a wreck and was charged with DUI and leaving the scene. Although I thought I was ok to drive, I was charged with DUI and "leaving the scene of an accident." It turned out my alcohol level was over the limit. I am about to graduate college and a DUI conviction would have really hurt my chances of getting a good job. Johnny and Bret told me I had a difficult case and the only guarantee they gave was that they would work hard for me. They NEVER gave up on my case and ultimately persuaded the arresting officer and the DA to reduce the charge. If YOU need help on a DUI or any other case, call them! These men are not only hard working but kind. They made me feel confident in times of great stress and trouble. I am thankful to have met them and to have had them on my team!
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Response from Johnny Houston November 24, 2019
Madeline, thank you for your kind review. I enjoyed meeting you and your father. Now that you have this behind you, you can get that degree and move on with your life. I know that you are going places and will be successful. Please don't be a stranger.
Posted by Kevin | March 26, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Lifesaver
Me. Houston was able to get my case dismissed. You get what you pay for, if your name is important to you, go with Johnny.
Posted by Karen | March 18, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Saved my life!
I was charged with a second offense DUI. I have no excuse and I should not have been driving. My husband had just passed away and I was going thru personal issues. I backed into another car and was charged with DUI and felony vehicular assault. My case was uphill and Mr. Houston made no bones about it. He told me that he could not guarantee a particular outcome, but would guarantee that he and the other lawyers at Houston & Alexander would work hard to get the best result possible. Mr. Houston was able to get my second offense reduced to a first offense. I had to wear an alcohol monitor but was happy to do so. Otherwise, I was looking at significant jail time. I cannot say enough about this law firm! I would give 10 stars if I could. Everyone there is friendly and it is like a family. I also love their office. It is a house located near downtown but not in downtown so I did not have to deal with going down there, If you have any legal issue, I would call them immediately!
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Response from Johnny Houston November 24, 2019
Thank you very much for your kind review. It took a bit longer than we anticipated, but as we explained early on, these cases are often marathons rather than sprints. Very happy that all worked out..
Posted by anonymous | July 30, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Aggravated Assault Charges
Hiring an attorney during a difficult time can be extremely stressful. You are trusting your fate to someone you have never met and know nothing about. This was how we felt when we hired Mr Houston to represent my son. It was a long battle, but Mr Houston never gave up on our son. From the first meeting until the charges/case was dismissed, Mr Houston always told me the truth, always kept us up to date on any changes in the case. Even tho we faced multiple District Attorneys during our case, Mr Houston and his firm represented our son to the fullest. Words are just words . Even the most glowing review could never express how grateful I am we hired this man.
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Response from Johnny Houston February 17, 2019
Thank you very much for your kind comments. As we discussed at our first consultation, serious criminal matters are more akin to marathon races than sprints. It often takes time to present the case to prosecutors who are handling numerous difficult cases. We appreciate your hiring us to represent your son and we are always here if and when you need us.
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Posted by anonymous | July 25, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Arduous DWI case.
He did well with a DWI case. The case was ultimately dismissed with a plea to a lesser charge. In today's world, that is doing well.
Posted by SM | June 12, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Incredible attorney! Incredible result!
I was facing several charges, including pills for resale. Frankly, I had no hope for a good result even though I knew Johnny was a great lawyer (I had previously hired him for another even more serious case). It wasn't cheap, but quality representation isn't cheap and it took me a little time to get the money together. RESULT? The B felony was reduced to a simple misdemeanor and the other charges were dismissed. I cannot say enough great things about this law firm. They kept me informed the whole time, returned my calls and did everything I asked them to do. Johnny in particular is easy to talk to but is well-respected by Judges, DAs and police officers. I hope to NEVER be in trouble again, but if you are in trouble, give Johnny or Bret a call. I could not be happier and more satisfied.
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Posted by James | February 22, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Complicated DUI Case
Johnny provided excellent defense in my case. Extremely knowledgeable, professional, and his years of experience was evident as he, not only, knew the law but how to apply it to help my defense. I couldn't have asked for better representation.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 15 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.9 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Criminal Court Judge
  • City of Red Bank
  • 2006 - Present
  • Owner
  • Houston and Associates
  • 1993 - Present
  • City Judge
  • Red Bank
  • 2000 - 2001
  • Attorney
  • Hanzelik and Houston
  • 1991 - 1993
  • Associate
  • Stophel & Stophel
  • 1989 - 1991
  • Law Clerk
  • Shelby County Criminal Court
  • 1988 - 1989
  • Law Clerk
  • Gerber, Gerber & Agee
  • 1987 - 1988
View all work experience

Education

  • University of Memphis - Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law
  • Law
  • 1989
  • University of Tennessee
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1986

Legal Cases

  • State v. Ste---s
  • Charges Dismissed
  • State v. Ha.....n
  • Amended to Reckless Driving!
  • State v. M**s
  • Incredible!! One outright dismissal and the other was amended to reckless driving. NO JAIL TIME!
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Lead Counsel
  • Member
  • 2017 - Present
  • Lawyers of Distinction
  • Member
  • 2017 - Present
  • Chattanooga Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2006 - Present
  • National College of DUI Defense
  • Member
  • 2003 - Present
  • Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 1993 - Present
  • State Bar of Georgia
  • Member
  • 1990 - Present
  • Lookout Mountain Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1990 - Present
  • American Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1989 - Present
  • Tennessee Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1989 - Present
  • Chattanooga Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1989 - Present
  • Red Bank Chamber of Commerce
  • President
  • 1991 - 1992
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Distinguished
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
  • Client Champion Award
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
  • Lead Counsel Rated
  • Lead Counsel
  • 2017
  • Lawyer of Distinction
  • Lawyers of Distinction
  • 2017
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2016
  • Outstanding Judge Award
  • Court Watchers
  • 2009
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Annual Tennessee Conference
  • Ethics and Professional Responsibility
  • 2017
  • Annual Conference
  • Ethics
  • 2016
  • Tennessee Annual Conference
  • Professional Responsibility
  • 2015
  • Annual State-wide Conference
  • Ethics
  • 2014
  • Tennessee Association for Professional Bail Agents
  • Ethics
  • 2013
  • 2013 Continuing Education
  • Professionalism
  • 2013
  • Tennessee Association of Professional Bail Agents
  • Professionalism and Ethics
  • 2012
  • Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Recent Developments in Tennessee Criminal Law
  • 2009
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (27)
Given (29)
Endorse Johnny
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse Johnny Houston. Johnny is fair minded, tough and ethical. What more could you ask for in a lawyer?"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Johhny is one of Chattanooga if not Tennessee's best DUI attorneys. His knowledge comes not only from years of experience but from his knowledge as an acting judge in Red Bank as well. He is a wealth of information for younger attorneys and uses all the newest technological advances to help you win your case. I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I'm proud to endorse Johnny Houston, Jr. as a lawyer who is serious about DUI defense. As a member of The National College for DUI Defense, Johnny is committed to DUI defense, and will work hard to help you through this stressful situation. If you've been charged with a Chattanooga DUI, call Johnny and ask for help."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Johnny is one of the best criminal defense lawyers in Chattanooga/Eastern Tennessee. I endorse him fully."
Unknown Attorney | Jan 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Houston is a respected attorney and I endorse him without hesitation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 06
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Personal injury Attorney | Jul 29
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this talented and knowledgeable attorney, who is well-respected in the legal community."
Unknown Attorney | Jun 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Houston is a skilled and respected member of the legal community. He is a zealous advocate for the rights and interests of his clients."
Litigation Attorney | Jun 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Houston is strong advocate and a well respected lawyer in the Chattanooga area. I recommend him."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Very skilled and respected attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Johnny. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Unknown Attorney | May 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"He will fight for you. He is knowledgeable and is well respected."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch lawyer. Highly respected in the legal community."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jan 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Johnny is an excellent DUI attorney. I recommend him highly."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I've known Johnny for a couple decades and I've always thought highly of him. He's a great trial attorney who gets the best results for his clients. He's aggressive, intelligent, and fully competent to handle any type of criminal case. You won't be disappointed with his services. If he's advised you to do something, you should listen to him. He knows what he is talking about."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Johnny is a fine lawyer who I have known for over 20 years."
View more endorsements
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Criminal defense
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
General practice
Personal injury
Criminal defense
Criminal defense