Danny Baxter Nashville
Criminal Lawyer

Danny J. Baxter is a Senior Trial Attorney at Michael & Associates Criminal Defense Attorneys in Nashville, Tennessee. He joined the firm in June 2026, bringing more than four decades of combined experience in law enforcement, criminal investigations, and criminal defense litigation. Throughout his career, he has developed a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system from multiple perspectives, enabling him to provide strategic and informed representation to individuals facing serious criminal charges.

Before becoming a criminal defense attorney, Danny served with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, where he worked in violent crime investigations, undercover narcotics operations, and patrol. He also served as a hostage and crisis negotiator, a role requiring advanced training in communication, conflict resolution, and high-stakes decision-making. This firsthand experience investigating criminal allegations and gathering evidence provides him with valuable insight into how law enforcement agencies build cases and how prosecutors evaluate criminal charges.

For more than 25 years, Danny has represented individuals accused of criminal offenses throughout Tennessee. His practice includes DUI and impaired driving offenses, drug crimes, assault and violent crimes, domestic violence allegations, theft offenses, weapons charges, probation violations, sex crime allegations, and other misdemeanor and felony matters. Drawing on his extensive law enforcement background, he carefully analyzes police reports, witness statements, forensic evidence, and investigative procedures to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case and develop effective defense strategies tailored to each client's circumstances.

In addition to his criminal defense practice, Danny has served in several unique roles within Tennessee's legal system. He has served as a legal advisor and instructor for law enforcement personnel, helping train officers on legal procedures, investigations, and courtroom issues. He also served as a legal liaison with the Davidson County District Attorney's Office, providing him with additional insight into how prosecutors evaluate cases, make charging decisions, and prepare matters for litigation.

Danny has further served as a Special Judge in General Sessions Court, giving him valuable perspective on how criminal cases are evaluated, litigated, and resolved at multiple stages of the judicial process.

He is an active member of the Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the Tennessee Bar Association, the Nashville Bar Association, and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He is also a member of the Fraternal Order of Police, reflecting his longstanding involvement in both the legal and law enforcement communities.

Clients benefit from Danny's unique combination of investigative experience, courtroom advocacy, and practical understanding of how criminal cases progress from arrest through trial and appeal. His background allows him to evaluate cases from both the law enforcement and defense perspectives, helping him anticipate prosecutorial strategies, challenge investigative methods when appropriate, and provide practical guidance throughout the legal process.

Known for his direct communication style and client-centered approach, Danny believes that effective representation begins with trust, preparation, and open communication. He works closely with clients to ensure they understand their options, the legal process, and the potential consequences of the charges they face. He approaches every case with the belief that clients deserve both skilled advocacy and compassionate support during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

At Michael & Associates, Danny provides experienced criminal defense representation to individuals facing charges in Nashville and throughout Middle Tennessee. His decades of service in law enforcement and criminal defense, combined with his extensive trial experience, make him a trusted advocate for clients seeking knowledgeable and effective legal representation.

Outside the courtroom, Danny enjoys playing the violin and cello, CrossFit training, coaching youth sports, riding motorcycles, spending time outdoors, and being with his family. He and his wife, Jill, have two children and two British Labradors.