if you live in Nashville or the surrounding area, staying up to date on Tennessee’s criminal laws is important — especially if you or someone you care about ever faces criminal charges. In 2025, more than 170 new laws were passed, including several that directly impact criminal cases.
At Herbert & Lux Attorneys at Law, we’re here to break down the key updates in a way that’s easy to understand. Our goal is to keep our community informed and help you know when it might be time to call a Nashville criminal defense lawyer for advice.
Harsher Penalties for Child Abuse (HB0045)
Effective Date: July 1, 2025
The penalty for knowingly injuring a child between ages 9 and 17 is now much more serious.
- Old Law: Class A misdemeanor (up to 11 months, 29 days in jail).
- New Law: Class E felony (1–6 years in prison and a permanent felony record).
This means anyone accused of this type of child abuse could face a felony conviction — which comes with prison time and long-term consequences that can affect employment, housing, and more.
Driving With an Invalid License (HB0749)
Effective Dates: April 24, 2025 (law takes effect) | January 1, 2026 (enforcement begins)
Driving without a valid license is no longer just a traffic matter.
- New Offense: Class B misdemeanor for operating a vehicle with an invalid license.
- Extra Change: Licenses issued only to undocumented immigrants in other states will no longer be recognized in Tennessee.
Being charged with this offense now carries the risk of a criminal record, not just a fine.
Stricter Penalties for Catalytic Converter Theft
Effective Date: July 1, 2025
Possessing a detached catalytic converter without proper authorization is now a Class E felony — a big jump from the previous misdemeanor offense.
This law is meant to reduce catalytic converter thefts, but it also means someone caught with one could face felony charges and significant penalties.
Expanded List of “Dangerous Felonies” for Firearm Cases (HB0578)
Effective Date: July 1, 2025
More crimes have been added to Tennessee’s list of “dangerous felonies.” If someone is caught with a firearm or antique firearm while committing one of these offenses, they could face enhanced sentencing.
This change can increase the prison time and fines in certain criminal cases involving weapons.
What This Means for Nashville Residents
These updates show a trend toward tougher penalties across the board — from driving offenses to violent crimes. If you’re facing charges under one of these new laws, you could be looking at harsher sentences than before, including felony convictions and possible prison time.
How Herbert & Lux Can Help
At Herbert & Lux Attorneys at Law, we know how stressful it can be to face criminal charges — especially when the laws are changing. Our Nashville criminal defense team has years of experience defending clients across Middle Tennessee in cases involving:
- DUI defense
- Drug crimes
- Assault and violent crimes
- Gun and weapons charges
- White collar crimes
- Juvenile cases
- Misdemeanors and felonies of all kinds
Talk to a Nashville Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
If you or someone you love is charged under one of these new Tennessee laws, don’t wait. The sooner you speak with an experienced defense lawyer, the better your chances of protecting your future.
Call Herbert & Lux Attorneys at Law today or fill out our online contact form to schedule a confidential consultation. We’re ready to fight for your rights and help you move forward.
