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John Barnes

DUI and DWI Attorney at Knoxville, TN

5.0   52 reviews
Free consultation
Free consultation
  • Licensed for 14 years
    State TN
    Acquired 2009
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About John

Learn John’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
  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.

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.  

Awards

Client's Choice 2020,2015,2014
Client's Choice
2020 2015 2014

Photos and videos

Using a gas chromatograph, the machine the state uses to test blood for alcohol and drugs, in Chicago, IL at Axion Labs Forensic Gas Chromatography Course.
This is a column. It is a super thin tube through which gas collected from your blood sample is run.  It is one part of the gas chromatograph. Taken in Chicago, IL at Axion Labs Forensic Gas Chromatography Course.
Injection port on the gas chromatograph taken in Chicago, IL at Axion Labs Forensic Gas Chromatography Course.
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Contact John

Barnes & Fersten
109 S. Northshore Drive
Suite 310
Knoxville, TN, 37919

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  52 customer reviews
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Client's Choice 2020
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 anonymous | January 16, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great representation at an affordable rate.
I had a case come up that I was very nervous about because it was charges that were untrue and unfounded. I got in contact with several attorneys during my search period and Mr. John Barnes was the one I chose to go with. I chose him because he was attentive and very responsive. Not only did he respond to me the same day (even if he had been out of the office) on every occasion that we spoke, but he also seemed to genuinely care about my case. Since these were unfounded charges trying to be levied against me, I did not want to take a diversion or anything of that sort, I wanted to have this manner completely dismissed as it should have been. I had other attorneys consult me who seemed to be more interested in doing whatever was quickest or easiest. John Barnes was not one of those attorneys he knew that I wanted this manner dismissed without taking any kind of diversion or plea deal and that I needed this matter resolved asap, he worked diligently with me to achieve this goal. In the end all charges were dismissed within 2 weeks of the charges. I would highly recommend Mr. Barnes if anyone were needing legal representation.
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Posted by Jean | October 24, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney
We felt comfortable speaking with Mr. Barnes about the case. In the office and in court, Mr. Barnes clearly explained all points of the situation. He never made us feel rushed or pressured into making a decision. His office was very good at contacting us prior to court appearances. Mr. Barnes responded quickly to phone calls if we had questions. Mr. Barnes and his staff are all very kind and respectful. We are very grateful for his representation and for the favorable outcome in our case. We highly recommend Mr. Barnes for any legal matters.
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Posted by anonymous | July 24, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing service and hospitality
My wife needed an attorney for a charge received while traveling to visit her sister in Maryville TN. We live in the Memphis TN area so it was hard finding an attorney out of town. We were very fortunate to find Barnes Law Firm. Attorney John Barnes assisted her with efficient results and the best outcome on her case we could ask for! We are very pleased and relieved with the service Attorney Barnes gave us. I would recommend Barnes Law Firm to anyone seeking assistance in a criminal law situation. Thank you!
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Posted by S. Ehlers | April 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Results!
The Barnes Law Firm, specifically John, Lauren and Ed are very professional and, although the wheels of justice (self [justice] initiated in my case) move slowly, the firm guided me through the foreign (to me) process, kept me abreast of any changes of circumstances and comforted myself and family through a successful process of dismissal and, ultimately, expungement. Thank you to the entire staff!
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Posted by Jon | June 3, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Absolutely Professional, Effective Lawyers & Firm
John, Lauren & Ed are absolute professionals. There is not another firm that I would recommend more than Barnes Law. I called Barnes Law and immediately received a phone call back from Lauren. Within just a very short time I received a call from John to discuss my legal issue. John and his team answered ALL my questions, emails, concerns and phone calls instantly and with precise information regarding my case. They worked tirelessly on my case and I got the best resolution possible. Additionally, Barnes Law worked with me on paying for their services so that I could get the immediate attention that my legal case needed. Most importantly John, Lauren and Ed helped me to restore my family and helped me to get back to them quickly. There is nothing that can compare to this for me. I would highly recommend, if you find yourself in any legal situation, to contact Barnes Law as quickly as possible. Regardless of the industry or service, I have never seen any collective group of individuals care so much about what was going on with me as an individual.
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Posted by Angie | April 23, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI charges reduced to lesser charge.
John Barnes and his team are very good legal firm, they handled my case and I had a very good end result would recommend to anyone needing a very good Attorney.
Posted by anonymous | October 11, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Barnes Law Firm
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.
Posted by J.Davis | August 24, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
J. Davis
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!
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Posted by Frank | July 27, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very good law firm
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
Posted by Zsofi | March 9, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommend!
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.
Posted by Denise | January 2, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DWatson
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!
Posted by Meagan | December 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Superior service
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!
Posted by Amber | July 10, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent professional
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!!!
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Posted by Melissa | April 17, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
This office is the best decision that i could have made
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.
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Posted by anonymous | July 20, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyer to call if you have legal issues
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.
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Posted by jody | April 17, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney for DUI
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!
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Posted by Mark | January 6, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI case
Mr. Barnes is an amazing attorney. He went above and beyond to ensure that I was given a fair trial. He is very knowledgeable and uses it very well when defending his clients. I was not sure what the outcome would be or even if he would be able to help. But after sitting down with him and going over the details I knew Mr. Barnes was a man with integrity and was the right fit for me. He looks at things from every possible aspect and answered all questions with honesty and even when approached with a statistic what if question he was very honest. He listens and discusses with you about what could happen and what he is going to do there is no second guessing anything with him. He made my family feel comfortable and secure with what to expect and how important each step was that we were taking and left the choice up to me and did not force me to make any choice I did not feel was right. When looking for an attorney this is the man you want on your side he is professional, knowledgeable, honest, and does not question or look at you as a criminal in any way he treats you like a person and respects you all the way. I would recommend no one but him to represent anyone in trouble.
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Posted by anonymous | December 13, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney!
After being charged with reckless driving and drag racing, I knew this situation could cause repercussions in my career as well as my educational endeavors. I wished to retain an attorney that would best represent me and found that Attorney John Barnes exceeded all my expectations. I would highly recommend without any hesitation Attorney Barnes. You can rest assured you are being represented by an attorney who is very professional and an expert in his field. Thanks to you and your staff!
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Posted by Starr | October 21, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Case Dismissed
When I retained Attorney Barnes to represent me in my DUI 1st Offense case, I was confident, at the onset, of his knowledge and ability to successfully fight my case. While I had moments of doubts over the course of several months, due to the fact that he was honest about the potential outcomes, those doubts quickly dissipated during my preliminary hearing! I was rendered speechless as I watched and listened to him professionally, fiercely, and successfully disprove the legality of my initial dui stop. The Judge ruled in my favor and dismissed the case! The best legal defense ever and I can’t recommend him enough. Amazing! Thank you Attorney Barnes.
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Posted by anonymous | October 13, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Career Saving Decision
I was charged with 3rd offense DUI and was very stressed to say the least. But after my initial consultation I was at ease. So, I knew that John was the right lawyer for my case. He asked me what my expectations were and he not only met them but he greatly exceeded them. John represented me in a way that my charge was reduced to 1st offense. John thank you so much for your expertise and professionalism you showed me in regards to my case. Also, thank you Lauren for your support. Best Regards, Career Saved!!
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Managing Partner
  • Barnes & Fersten
  • 2022 - Present
  • Owner
  • Barnes Law Firm
  • 2014 - 2022
  • Associate
  • The Garza Law Firm, PLLC
  • 2011 - 2014
  • Associate
  • The Law Offices Of James A. H. Bell, PC
  • 2009 - 2011
View all work experience

Education

  • University of Tennessee College of Law
  • Juris Doctor
  • 2009
  • University of Tennessee
  • Bachelors
  • 2006

Legal Cases

  • 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
View all legal cases

Associations

  • National Criminal Defense College
  • Graduate
  • 2013 - Present
  • National College of DUI Defense
  • Member
  • 2012 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Life Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Knoxville Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Transactions: The Tennessee Journal of Business Law
  • Articles Editor
  • 2008 - 2009
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Top 40 Under 40
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2022
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Client's Choice Award
  • Avvo
  • 2014
  • Graduate - Southeast Regional
  • Spence Trial Lawyers College
  • 2014
  • Graduate of Forensic Chromatography: Theory and Practice
  • American Chemical Society
  • 2014
  • Trial Practice Institute Graduate
  • National Criminal Defense College
  • 2013
  • NHTSA Drug Impaired Driving Course (ARIDE)
  • La Pier and Associates
  • 2013
  • Graduate
  • National College for DUI Defense Harvard Summer Session
  • 2012
  • DUI Training and Conference
  • Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • 2012
  • Graduate
  • Terry McCarthy on Cross: Learning at the Feet of a Master
  • 2012
  • Graduate
  • Tennessee Criminal Defense College
  • 2012
  • Certificate in NHTSA Standardized Field Sobriety Testing
  • Impaired Driving Specialists
  • 2012
  • DUI Training and Conference
  • Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • 2011
  • Dean's List
  • University of Tennessee College of Law
  • 2009
  • Robert W. Ritchie Criminal Defense Scholarship
  • Ritchie, Dillard, and Davies, P.C.
  • 2008
  • Academic Achievement Award - Contract Drafting
  • University of Tennessee College of Law
  • 2008
  • Academic Achievement Award - Business Transactions
  • University of Tennessee College of Law
  • 2008
  • Dean's List
  • University of Tennessee College of Law
  • 2008
  • Dean's List
  • University of Tennessee College of Law
  • 2007
View all awards

Publications

  • For The Defense (TACDL)
  • Tennessee Criminal Defense College 2012
  • 2012
  • For The Defense (TACDL)
  • Demystifying the DRE
  • 2012
  • Tennessee DUI and Criminal Law Handbook for Citizens
  • Chapter 13: What's an Appeal and Do I Want One?
  • 2012
  • For The Defense (TACDL)
  • New Ignition Interlock Law Aims for Fail-Safe Drivers
  • 2011
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • Loudon County Citizen's Police Academy
  • Mock Trial
  • 2012

Attorney endorsements

Received (18)
Given (28)
Endorse John
Unknown Attorney | Oct 27
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 08
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"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 08
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 06
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 29
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse John. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jan 27
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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jan 12
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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jan 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John is an excellent DUI attorney. I recommend him highly."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 09
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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 07
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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 25
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 07
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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 04
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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 30
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 24
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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Feb 16
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."
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Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Car accident
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
Divorce and separation
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI