242 Poplar Avenue · Memphis, Tennessee Call or text (901) 568-5919
Jason Matthews Law Call (901) 568-5919

Practice areas

What I defend

Criminal charges in Memphis and Shelby County. I have handled everything from 1st degree murder to traffic tickets. If your situation isn't listed, call or text anyway — I'd rather point you to the right person than have you sit on it.

Jason Matthews meeting with a client

Defending Memphians accused of crimes since 2009. Jason Matthews Law focuses exclusively on Criminal Defense.

1st Degree Murder

The most serious charge in Tennessee. Immediate representation matters — what happens in the first days after an arrest can shape the entire case.

A murder charge means every decision matters: what you say, when you say it, and who is standing next to you when you do. Early legal representation gives you the best chance of preserving your rights and understanding your options before critical choices are made.

Kidnapping

Kidnapping charges in Tennessee range from false imprisonment to aggravated kidnapping. These charges are frequently added alongside other counts and require immediate attention.

Because kidnapping is often charged in combination with other offenses, the strategy for defending it is closely tied to the rest of the case. Early involvement gives us the most options.

Robbery

From theft-by-force to aggravated robbery charges involving a weapon. These are serious felonies with significant sentencing exposure — early representation matters.

Robbery cases often hinge on identification, intent, and the circumstances of the alleged incident. A strong defense examines every piece of evidence before the State builds its case.

Assault & Domestic Violence

These charges often involve family members, partners, or neighbors, and the version in the police report is rarely the whole story.

There are consequences beyond the criminal case itself — orders of protection, housing, and firearm rights can all be affected. A domestic violence charge needs to be handled carefully from the first appearance.

Weapons Charges

Unlawful carry and possession charges, including situations where a weapons count is added to a case that would otherwise be straightforward.

Tennessee's weapons laws carry real consequences, and a weapons charge added to another offense can dramatically increase sentencing exposure. We look at whether the stop, the search, and the seizure were lawful.

Drug Charges

From simple possession to charges carrying significant exposure. Many of these cases turn less on what was found than on how it was found.

Whether the stop was lawful, whether the search was conducted properly, and whether the warrant was valid are the questions that can change everything. A drug case that looks straightforward often isn't once the evidence is examined.

Theft & Property Crimes

Shoplifting, theft of property, burglary, and vandalism. The dollar amount alleged often determines whether a charge is a misdemeanor or a felony — and that number is not always right.

Property crime charges frequently have more defenses available than people expect, especially when the value of the alleged theft is disputed or the circumstances are more complicated than the report suggests.

DUI & Driving Offenses

A DUI arrest starts two separate matters: the criminal charge and a separate process affecting your license. Both have deadlines.

I look at how the stop was made, how field sobriety testing was conducted, and how any breath or blood sample was handled. First offenses, repeat charges, and commercial license issues each have different implications.

Probation Violations

A violation warrant can mean being held without bond. These move quickly, and how fast you get a lawyer involved often shapes what options remain.

Probation violation hearings have different rules than criminal trials, but the consequences can be just as serious. The earlier we can address it, the better the position we're in when it comes before the judge.

Traffic Tickets

Moving violations, reckless driving, and citations that can affect your license, insurance, or employment. Often resolvable without a court appearance.

A traffic conviction that goes on your record can have long-term consequences for your insurance rates and, in some jobs, your employment. Many tickets can be handled without you having to take a day off work.

Not Listed?

If what you're charged with isn't on this list, send me a text and let me point you in the right direction. I'd rather take a minute to steer you to the right person than have you sitting on a charge without a lawyer.

Jason Matthews at the Walter L. Bailey Jr. Criminal Justice Center sign, 201 Poplar Avenue, Memphis

Right where it matters

My office is directly across the street from the Criminal Justice Center.

The Walter L. Bailey Jr. Criminal Justice Center at 201 Poplar is where your case will be heard. My office at 242 Poplar is right across the street — which means I'm in that building constantly, I know the clerks and the prosecutors, and I can be there in minutes if something comes up on your case.

Being this close isn't a slogan. It's a practical advantage that shows up in how quickly I can respond and how well I know the people handling your case.

Call or text (901) 568-5919

Before you call

A few things worth knowing

  • You are not required to explain yourself to police without a lawyer present.
  • Bring or photograph any paperwork you were given at booking or release.
  • Write down what happened while you still remember the details clearly.
  • Court dates do not move on their own. Missing one creates a new problem.
  • Don't discuss the case on a recorded jail line or on social media.
  • Calling or texting a lawyer is not an admission of anything.

Call or text

Not sure where your case fits?

901.568.5919

Or send a message and I'll get back to you.

Call or text (901) 568-5919