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John Barnes

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Avvo Rating10
  • Knoxville, TN
  • Licensed for 12 years
  • Free consultation
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John Barnes
John Barnes
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About John

Top quality DUI and Criminal Defense at a price you can afford.

The Barnes Law Firm was founded with its clients as the top priority.  That means we deliver every client a high quality, personalized, and aggressive representation, we are  available so that every client can speak with their attorney directly about their case and get the information and advice they need in a timely manner, and we provide those things at an affordable rate.  

 

Your peace of mind, experience, and case result drive everything we do.  That means we take on less cases per attorney than other firms so that we can spend the time necessary on your case and with you.  It also means we spend the time and money to develop the expertise required to make sure you get the best possilbe result in your case.  We think that representing East Tennesseeans is a great responsibilty and we take pride in delivering the highest quality representation.  We hope you will give us an opportunity to serve you or a loved one facing a criminal prosecution or hurt by someone else's negligence.  

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Practice areas

Criminal defenseDUI and DWI
  1. DUI and DWI: 75%

    Every year the penalties for DUI are increased and enforcement of DUI laws gets more aggressive. Because of the political and technical nature of a DUI prosecution, successfully defending a DUI case takes specialized knowledge, training, and skill that most lawyers do not have. I've devoted a large portion of my practice to mastering the science, law, and courtroom skills necessary to fight for people accused of DUI and to helping people win their DUI case.

  2. Criminal defense: 25%

    Being charged with a crime can be a devastating blow and can have lasting effects on a person's life. I'm passionate about defending the rights of people charged with crimes and helping to provide peace of mind through the criminal justice process and the best outcome possible that helps preserve people's freedom, livelihood, and future.

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

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Contact

5401 Kingston Pike
address map

Barnes Law Firm

5401 Kingston Pike
Suite 500
Knoxville, TN, 37919

Website
www.johnbarneslaw.com 

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    TNActive200903/17/2021
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers5
    Legal guides0
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    Top 100 Trial LawyersNational Trial Lawyers2016
    Top 40 Under 40National Trial Lawyers2014
    Client's Choice AwardAvvo2014
    Graduate - Southeast RegionalSpence Trial Lawyers College2014
    Graduate of Forensic Chromatography: Theory and PracticeAmerican Chemical Society2014
    Trial Practice Institute GraduateNational Criminal Defense College2013
    NHTSA Drug Impaired Driving Course (ARIDE)La Pier and Associates2013
    DUI Training and ConferenceTennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers2012
    GraduateNational College for DUI Defense Harvard Summer Session2012
    Certificate in NHTSA Standardized Field Sobriety TestingImpaired Driving Specialists2012
    GraduateTerry McCarthy on Cross: Learning at the Feet of a Master2012
    GraduateTennessee Criminal Defense College2012
    DUI Training and ConferenceTennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers2011
    Dean's ListUniversity of Tennessee College of Law2009
    Robert W. Ritchie Criminal Defense ScholarshipRitchie, Dillard, and Davies, P.C.2008
    Academic Achievement Award - Contract DraftingUniversity of Tennessee College of Law2008
    Academic Achievement Award - Business TransactionsUniversity of Tennessee College of Law2008
    Dean's ListUniversity of Tennessee College of Law2008
    Dean's ListUniversity of Tennessee College of Law2007
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    Ownerthe Barnes Law Office2014 - Present
    AssociateThe Garza Law Firm, PLLC2011 - Present
    AssociateThe Law Offices Of James A. H. Bell, PC2009 - 2011
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    American Society of Mass SpectrometryMember2014 - Present
    Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers CollegeMember2014 - Present
    Hamilton Burnett American Inn of CourtMember2014 - Present
    National Criminal Defense CollegeGraduate2013 - Present
    American Chemical SocietyAffiliate Member2013 - Present
    National College of DUI DefenseMember2012 - Present
    National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember2011 - Present
    Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense LawyersSustaining Member2009 - Present
    Knoxville Bar AssociationMember2009 - Present
    Transactions: The Tennessee Journal of Business LawArticles Editor2008 - 2009
    Publications
    Publication nameTitleDate
    For The Defense (TACDL)Tennessee Criminal Defense College 20122012
    For The Defense (TACDL)Demystifying the DRE2012
    Tennessee DUI and Criminal Law Handbook for CitizensChapter 13: What's an Appeal and Do I Want One?2012
    For The Defense (TACDL)New Ignition Interlock Law Aims for Fail-Safe Drivers2011
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    University of Tennessee College of LawJuris Doctor2009
    University of TennesseeBachelors2006
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    Loudon County Citizen's Police AcademyMock Trial2012
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    Wilkerson v. Leath, 2012 WL 2361972 (Tenn. Ct. App. 2012)Trial Court Reversed
    United States v. G.N.Downward departure granted over government's objection
    State of Tennessee v. J.W.DUI 3rd offense dismissed
    State of Tennessee v. L.G.Charges dismissed despite positive blood test
    State of Tennessee v. D.D.All felony charges dismissed and misdemeanor charge eligible for dismissal and expungement after one year
    D.P. v. State of TennesseeDriving Privileges Reinstated

    Reviews

    (46)
    5 Star
    		100%
    4 Star
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    3 Star
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    2 Star
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    1 Star
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    Review John Barnes

    Barnes Law Firm

    Posted by

    I was arrested for a crime which I did not commit. I was facing jail time and some very expensive consequences if I had been convicted. Thankfully, I reached out to the Barnes Law Firm. Due to their professionalism and competence, all charges were dropped. They're very good people to know if you're in legal trouble.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    J. Davis

    Posted by

    Cant say enough good things about John. He was by my side from the very start and always kept me informed on what was happening with my case. He had to educate me about a lot of things but always did so with patience and respect. He and Lauren worked really hard to help me through the most devastating and scary thing that I have ever faced professionally. Grateful for all they did!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Very good law firm

    Posted by

    Whole staff was very helpful and courtious and worked very hard to resolve my case. I would recommend them to anyone that was in my circumstance. Thanks to all of you at the firm. So blessed
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Highly recommend!

    Posted by

    Ed, John and Lauren have been the greatest people to work with. They were with me throughout my whole case, they were always ready to answer questions and help. They also achieved the best outcome for my case. I am truly grateful for their hard work. Zsofi K.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    DWatson

    Posted by

    John Barnes and Ed Holt where very Professional, Informative and Encouraging!! They helped me with my case and I would recommend this Law Firm with 5stars. Lauren was also very helpful, kind and professional as well. Thank you John Barnes Law Firm!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Superior service

    Posted by

    John and his team worked diligently on my account to get me the best result possible. They were patient, respectful, and understanding. They kept me informed every step of the way of what was going on with my case. I appreciate all the hard work they did for me!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Excellent professional

    Posted by

    John and Lauren work cohesively as a team! My first meeting with John he provided me with honest answers and no empty promises. He explored my case in depth so he was well prepared in court. He helped me understand every step of the process. He and/or Lauren were always available to provide answers to my questions as they came up in a timely manner. I highly recommend John Barnes Law for your needs as he is professional, intelligent, a hard worker, and a genuine friendly man!!!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    This office is the best decision that i could have made

    Posted by

    It's hard to describe my experience with mere simple words. I hired John Barnes and it was the smartest decision I could have possibly made. This sort of thing is a horrible ordeal to go thru ..full of uncertainty and fear but I can honestly say that I wouldn't have the peace of mind I do now if it weren't for John. This gentleman seriously cares and listens to every detail you give him and takes all of this into consideration and thoroughly analyzes and reviews every aspect to represent you to the best of his ability. Yes i probably sound like a commercial but this is real...this is my real life and this man helped me and cared and did everything he could. My outcome was very very good. If you need to hire an attorney your search is over if you want a smart, fair, hardworking individual who knows exactly what he is doing. I also want to add that he was always available to answer questions anytime about anything and help put your mind at ease. Finally...his assistant Lauren is the most amazing lady. I sent Lauren so many emails about various things and questions and concerns and she always listened..answered and encouraged...I cant explain how much she helped me on a practically daily basis. Yes this has been a lengthy review but I barely scratched the surface because while I still have alot to deal with in the upcoming year or so I wouldn't have gotten results like i did without this team. Thank you guys from my heart and my family.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Best lawyer to call if you have legal issues

    Posted by

    First off, I had a case that was virtually unwinnable. I did something really stupid and out of character while under the influence of drugs. I shoplifted and was caught red handed. It was a nightmare, and being that I was caught on camera, the best thing I could do was plead guilty, and accept my punishment. Mr. Barnes somehow convinced the D.A. to get me a lesser charge of attempted shoplifting, which is a much lesser penalty and not as serious as actual shoplifting. I still don’t know how he did it, but I gladly accepted it. Not only is he a great lawyer, but very understanding and a really nice person. I’ve since learned my lesson and have straightened myself out. But if I was ever in trouble again, he would be my first call. I can never thank him enough for what he did for me.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Excellent Attorney for DUI

    Posted by

    I was pulled over in November of 2015 for DUI. The officer asked me to get out of the vehicle and perform some tests. I did a few of them but was extremely nervous as I have an anxiety/panic disorder. I decided to refuse the rest of the tests which automatically sent me to jail with an implied consent charge. I also had some prescription medication on me and some handguns which I have a permit for. I was in dire need of a lawyer and had no idea of who to hire. I started researching and came across John Barnes. I decided to hire him and I am forever grateful that I did. I had never been in trouble before, so I didn't know what to expect. My case took a long time to settle, but I am pleased to say that my case was dismissed and everything was expunged from my record. I was so worried in the beginning about every little detail. The thing is, that John knows the laws and knows them well. He will know things a regular person as myself would never dream of. He fought for me and I would highly recommend him should anyone need an attorney. Again, I'm grateful that I did!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
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    Attorney endorsements

    (18)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    Brandon Fersten

    John has many skills that make him an exceptional advocate. John truly takes the phrase “client-centered representation” to heart. He insures that every client feels as if they are his primary concern by listening to their concerns and thinking critically to resolve their legal issues through highly-skilled advocacy. John has incredible success at reaching a successful resolution in each of his cases by explaining his clients' stories in the most beneficial way possible based on the applicable law. As one of John’s associates, I can truly say that I am honored to have John as a boss and a mentor. John has provided me with the opportunity to witness firsthand how he is able to relieve his clients of their worst nightmare by aggressively advocating on their behalves. Whether you are facing criminal or DUI charges against you, or you are the victim of someone else’s negligence or intentional act seeking compensation, you will be beyond grateful to have Barnes Law fighting for you.

    Benjamin Glass, DUI and DWI Attorney on Sep 8, 2017
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    One of the best trained DUI defense lawyers I have ever run across. Sure, there are many lawyers who will lure you in with discount pricing. DUI is not one of those areas where you should be looking for the cheapest. The consequences of a loss can be monumental

    Edward Holt, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 8, 2017
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I have known and worked with John for several years. He is probably the best example I can think of in saying that a lawyer doesn't necessarily have to have been in practice for 30 years in order to have the level of knowledge and the capabilities which would be expected from a lawyer with 30 years experience. He is extremely knowledgeable of the law, and highly adept in working the law to the benefit of his clients. John is respectful of his clients, sensitive to their desires and needs, and also realistic with then regarding their expectations. Most importantly, his personal integrity and professional ethics are unimpeachable. John is a great lawyer now, and he has many years ahead to become even better.

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

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Rachel Lambert, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 29, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    John is a brilliant and diligent attorney. I have worked hand in hand with him on a number of cases, and his knowledge of the law and ability to quickly think of legal solutions never ceased to amaze me.

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

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

    Scott Spindel, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jan 27, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    John is a top notch lawyer who continues to educate himself to keep him at the top of his game. John fights hard for his clients and provides them with aggressive and diligent representation.

    Daniel Sabol, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jan 12, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    John is an exceptionally hard worker and is always on the cutting edge of DUI law. His skill in the courtroom and dedication to his clients set him apart from his peers, and I highly recommend him for any criminal or traffic defense matter.

    Timothy Vanderweert, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jan 5, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    John is an excellent DUI attorney. I recommend him highly.

    Rhidian Orr, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 9, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Mr. Barnes has earned a reputation as a skilled and talented litigator. He zealously represents all of his clients. Mr. Barnes travels and spends the time and money necessary to learn the science involved in each case. This allows him the ability to attack the States case on a constitutional and scientific level. I highly recommend Mr. Barnes.

    Josh Lee, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 7, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    There are two ways to practice DUI defense for an attorney. They can take as many cases as they can and just plead guilty or they can put in the time to defend someone the right way. Attorney Barnes definitely does things the right way. First of all he works for a firm that is nationally recognized as a leader in DUI defense. He attends the absolute best DUI training classes all over the US. And most importantly he cares about his clients as individuals. John is truly a rising star among DUI attorneys in the US and I recommend John and the Garza Law Firm.

    Michael Sherman, DUI and DWI Attorney on Sep 25, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    John Barnes is a bright young attorney with the Marcos Garza Law Firm. John travels to the most prestigious continuing legal education seminars so that he is well equipped to defend any DUI and criminal case. John knows the state of the art science behind defending DUI cases. He regularly uses his extensive training and background to successfully defend his clients. I highly recommend John for your defense in any criminal matter.

    William Young, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 8, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    John Hunsucker, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 7, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I had the opportunity to meet John at an invitation only hands-on seminar where each participant had to pratically use their legal skills to cross examine witnesses. After watching John, I can say without a doubt that he is a rising star in the legal community. He was completely in charge and was able to lead the difficult state's witness into admitting mistakes that helped his case. John is a sharp, intelligent lawyer and I wholly recommend him for any of your legal needs.

    Justin McShane, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 4, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Attorney Barnes is known for his earned reputation for being a truly skilled litigator. He uses his education, training, and experience on a day-in and day-out basis to minimize or eliminate the potential consequences that the motorist accused may face. He is a tireless worker who will grind out a case until there is nothing left for the government to prosecute. Most of all, I tell you that I trust him. You will trust him too.

    Kimberly Frye, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 30, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    John is a young lawyer who has really impressed me with his skills. He has great poise in difficult situations. John also works to make sure he is the best advocate for his clients. He is light years ahead. You are well served by hiring John Barnes as your lawyer.

    Bradley Williams, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 24, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    John is a true warrior for criminal clients when they need it the most. It has not taken him long to develop an excellent reputation among his colleagues who are criminal defense lawyers. His advanced training in standardized field sobriety tests is further evidence of John's commitment to go above and beyond to do whatever it takes to win his client's case. Without reservation, I would refer anyone charged with a crime to John Barnes.

    Richard Holcomb, DUI and DWI Attorney on Feb 16, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    John has quickly earned a reputation in Knoxville as an exceptionally bright attorney who fights hard for his clients. He is a valued associate at Knoxville's top DUI firm, where his accomplishments, intelligence, and hard work ethics shine. I highly recommend this lawyer for any DUI or criminal allegations.

    Cost

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