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PRO
also known as James Tanner Duncan
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J. Tanner Duncan is a Cincinnati-born criminal defense attorney who takes the fight head-on—and doesn’t back down. Practicing in both Ohio and Kentucky, he handles everything from life-altering felony charges to misdemeanors and traffic offenses, bringing the same aggressive, results-driven approach to every case.
From investigation through trial, Tanner is strategic, relentless, and built for high-stakes defense. He has handled cases involving murder, shootings, sex crimes, DUI/OVIs, domestic violence, and more—where the consequences can follow a client for life. He prepares every case for trial, challenges every piece of evidence, and forces the prosecution to prove its case.
Tanner thrives in the courtroom while others avoid it. He makes sure clients understand exactly what’s at risk—whether it’s jail time, permanent records, registration requirements, license suspensions, or firearm restrictions—and builds a defense designed to protect their future.
Licensed in both Ohio and Kentucky, Tanner is uniquely positioned to handle cases with cross-state consequences, including probation, parole, and license issues. His approach is simple: take control early, apply pressure, and fight relentlessly to win.
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Practice Areas
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State: Kentucky
Acquired: 2021
No misconduct found
State: Ohio
Acquired: 2019
No misconduct found
12 E. Warren Street, Lebanon, OH, 45036
3734 Eastern Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45226
121 West High Street, Oxford, OH, 45056
9078 Union Centre Blvd. Suite 350, West Chester, OH, 45069
401 Scott St., Covington, KY, 41011
4555 Lake Forest Drive Suite 650, Cincinnati, OH, 45242
3805 Edwards Road Suite 550, Cincinnati, OH, 45209
103 Client Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 14 reviews | Responsiveness
Posted by anonymous | March 09, 2026 | Hired Attorney
Charges Dismissed and Peace of Mind Restored
I’m extremely grateful for the outstanding representation provided by Tanner Duncan in my BUI case. Thanks to his deep knowledge of the law and strategic approach, the original charges were dismissed, and what could have been a misdemeanor was reduced to minor infractions. He was professional, respon...
Posted by anonymous | October 26, 2025 | Hired Attorney
Knowledgable, Prompt and Efficient
Tanner took time to answer my questions as issues arose and kept me updated throughout the process. Great service!
Posted by anonymous | April 02, 2025 | Hired Attorney
Hiring Tanner was the best decision I could have made!
Wow, Tanner sets THE extremely high new standard for all attorney interactions I might have in the future. He is incredibly communicative, thorough, and professional. He answered or called back right away any time I called with questions, and gave me balanced and accurate advice. I felt both confide...
Posted by Shawn | December 30, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Speeding & Traffic Ticket
Great Attorney!
After my previous attorney refused to get back in touch with me. I reached out to Tanner on getting a suspension on my license dropped. Him and his team replied in a timely manner and explained all the steps and what to expect. He was in contact with me every step of the way and successfully got my s...
Posted by Rick | September 09, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes
Highly Recommend Tanner and his Team
Tanner and his team were hired in March 2023 and worked on one of family member's case for 18 months. It was a challenging case that faced significant consequences. Tanner worked diligently to ensure my family member's best interests were a priority. The most concerning and stressful part of the e...
"I endorse this lawyer. Tanner is smart, talented, hard-working, and kind. I appreciate his vigorous representation of his clients."
"Tanner is a fantastic criminal defense attorney. He is hardworking and dedicated to getting his clients the best outcome. He is well known in most courts in the Greater Cincinnati area and that reputation carries over to his interactions with judges and prosecutors. Would highly recommend."
"Tanner is a bright, motivated, and aggressive lawyer. He cares deeply about his clients and works tirelessly to get the best result possible. I endorse Tanner without reservation."
"Not only does Tanner have the intelligence and experience to aggressively represent his clients at the highest level, he genuinely cares about his clients and the outcome they receive. I would stand next to Mr. Duncan in any type of criminal matter with confidence."
Criminal defense lawyer
2019
Cum Laude, Northern Kentucky University - Salmon P. Chase College of Law
2019
Dean's List, Northern Kentucky University - Salmon P. Chase College of Law
2019
Order of the Barristers, Northern Kentucky University - Salmon P. Chase College of Law
2019
Law Review - Associate Editor, Northern Kentucky University - Salmon P. Chase College of Law
2018
Dean's List, Northern Kentucky University - Salmon P. Chase College of Law
2018
Law Review - Associate Editor, Northern Kentucky University - Salmon P. Chase College of Law
2017
Dean's List, Northern Kentucky University - Salmon P. Chase College of Law
2016
Dean's List, Northern Kentucky University - Salmon P. Chase College of Law
2025 - Present
Trial Attorney, Rittgers & Rittgers
2021 - 2025
Trial Attorney, Suhre & Associates, LLC
2019
JD - Juris Doctor
2014
BS - Bachelor of Science (History)
2024
2024
Criminal Defense Practice
English