In Tennessee, not every criminal charge results in handcuffs or a ride in a police car. Instead, law enforcement may issue a criminal citation—essentially a ticket for certain offenses that still requires you to show up in court. If you’ve been cited and are unsure what happens next, you're not alone. At Herbert & Lux, we help individuals across Nashville and Middle Tennessee understand what criminal citations mean and how to move forward the right way.
What Is a Criminal Citation?
A criminal citation is a legal notice requiring you to appear in court for alleged criminal behavior. While it may feel less serious than an arrest, it’s still a criminal charge. Citations are typically given in cases where the offense is nonviolent, the individual has valid ID, and there are no outstanding warrants.
Instead of being booked on the spot, you’re given a date to appear in court and will usually need to report for fingerprinting and processing before your hearing. Failing to appear can lead to a bench warrant and a potential arrest.
Common Offenses That Lead to Citations in Tennessee
Not all criminal acts result in immediate arrest. Law enforcement may issue citations for offenses such as:
- Shoplifting or petty theft
- Simple drug possession (e.g., marijuana)
- Public intoxication
- Prostitution or solicitation
- Leaving the scene of a minor accident
In most cases, citations are linked to misdemeanor charges, but in rare instances, a felony charge may be cited instead of arrested immediately—depending on the situation and local policies.
Penalties You Might Face
Even though you weren’t arrested, the consequences of a citation can still be serious. Depending on the nature of the offense and the outcome of your court appearance, you could be looking at:
- Fines up to $2,500
- Up to 11 months and 29 days in jail for a Class A misdemeanor
- A permanent mark on your criminal record
- Community service, probation, or drug/alcohol treatment
Getting cited does not mean you can’t go to jail. The courts take these cases seriously, and so should you.
Why You Should Contact a Defense Attorney Immediately
It might seem like "just a ticket," but a criminal citation is a charge that could have long-term consequences. Working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer gives you the best shot at:
- Reducing or dismissing charges
- Avoiding jail time or high fines
- Preserving your clean record
At Herbert & Lux, our team has helped hundreds of individuals across Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro, Hendersonville, and the rest of Middle Tennessee handle criminal citations with confidence. We know the local courts, prosecutors, and procedures—and we know how to protect your future.
Don't Wait for Court Day — Let’s Talk Now
If you’ve been issued a criminal citation, it’s important to act quickly. Your court date isn’t just a formality—it’s your opportunity to defend yourself. Let Herbert & Lux Attorneys at Law stand by your side and help you make the strongest case possible. Contact us today for a free consultation and find out how we can help.
