Nashville Criminal
Defense Lawyers
We See the Bigger Picture
At May McKinney, PLLC, we do more than defend cases. With over 80 years of combined experience, we help people navigate some of the most difficult moments of their lives with clarity, strategy, and unwavering support.
A Different Kind of
Criminal Defense Firm
At May McKinney, PLLC, our Nashville criminal defense lawyers combine passion with thoughtful, strategic advocacy. We don’t just react to charges—we take a holistic approach that looks deeper, uncovering the root cause of our clients’ legal challenges and building a defense designed to protect their future, not just resolve their case. Many attorneys promise to “fight for you.” But without strategy, communication, and intention, even the most aggressive defense can fall short.
An arrest or criminal investigation can impact every part of your life—your career, your relationships, and your freedom. That’s why we take the time to understand your situation fully, ask the right questions, and guide you through the process with clarity and support from start to finish. With 80+ years of combined legal experience, our team is known throughout Nashville and Middle Tennessee for being both highly skilled and deeply committed to our clients. We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach or rush cases toward quick resolutions. Instead, we carefully evaluate every detail to determine the most advantageous path forward—whether that means negotiating strategically or taking your case to trial.
Our Unique Approach to Criminal Defense
May McKinney, PLLC is not like most criminal defense firms—and that’s intentional. Our Nashville criminal defense attorneys take a more thoughtful, human-centered approach to every case. We don’t see clients as case numbers. We take the time to understand your situation from your perspective—how this moment is impacting your life, your future, and the people who matter most to you.
Working collaboratively as a team, we bring together experience, strategy, and insight to build a defense that goes beyond surface-level facts. We look deeper—often uncovering details and opportunities others may overlook—to minimize the impact of charges and position you for the best possible outcome.
Criminal Defense Services in Nashville
From misdemeanor arrests to serious felony charges, our Nashville criminal defense team is prepared to handle the full range of criminal matters across Middle Tennessee.
Free Consultations
(615) 256-7337
May McKinney, PLLC represents clients in DUI and drug offenses, domestic violence, sex crimes, violent crimes, weapons charges, theft offenses, expungement petitions, juvenile matters, and more. Every charge brings its own legal complexities, and we approach each case with the focused attention it deserves, no matter how large or small it may seem.
Our attorneys understand Tennessee criminal law inside and out, from the earliest stages of an investigation through trial and appeal. We explain your options clearly, keep you informed at every step, and build a defense strategy around your specific circumstances and goals, whether that means negotiating for a favorable resolution or fighting in court.
"I care about my clients, and I enjoy helping them. They are good people who are going through difficult times. Some are falsely accused. Others may have made a bad decision, like failing to call a cab after a party. I guide them through a legal process that can be frightening, confusing and full of snares for the unwary. I help put their lives back on track."
Attorney Rob McKinney
What You Can Expect
When You Work With Us
We know our clients come to us during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. That’s why we don’t just represent you—we guide you. From your first call through the resolution of your case, we are committed to clear communication, thoughtful strategy, and unwavering support. Even when a situation feels overwhelming or uncertain, there are often paths forward. With decades of combined experience, our attorneys know where to look, what to challenge, and how to protect your constitutional rights at every stage.
Whether that means identifying search and seizure violations, leveraging expert witnesses, or preparing for trial, we take every step necessary to pursue a resolution that protects your future—not just your case.
Why Choose May McKinney?
A Firm Committed to You, Your Case & Your Future
Clients come to us during some of the most stressful moments of their lives. What they often say is different about working with our firm is how supported they feel throughout the process. We don’t just prepare cases—we prepare people.
80+ Years of Combined Experience
Our accomplished attorneys bring over eight decades of combined criminal defense experience.
Educated In Our Field
Our team believes in ongoing training in the criminal defense field. Our attorneys are educated in the latest forensic science technology and Attorney Riddle is Trauma Certified.
A Team Approach
Our attorneys work each case as a unit, which is extremely beneficial to our clients. No matter the case size, it's integral to get the experience and knowledge of a team.
An Aggressive Defense
When you choose May McKinney, you are choosing a team that will fight tooth and nail for your rights, your freedom, and your future.