Gordon A. Byars

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Gordon A. Byars is a founding partner of Byars, Darby & Damas, a trial-focused law firm dedicated to high-level criminal defense and complex litigation across Tennessee. His practice is defined by disciplined preparation, strategic clarity, and commanding courtroom advocacy. Every case is built with a singular objective: to prevail where it matters most—before a jury.

Raised in Las Vegas before relocating to Tennessee during high school, Gordon brings a perspective that extends beyond regional familiarity. That background allows him to connect naturally with clients from all walks of life—professionals, business owners, students, and working families alike—while maintaining the poise and credibility demanded in serious courtroom litigation.

Gordon earned his undergraduate degree from Tennessee Tech and his Juris Doctor from Lincoln Memorial University's Duncan School of Law. While in law school, he clerked with the Tennessee Attorney General's Office, where exposure to complex state litigation reinforced his commitment to becoming a trial lawyer.

He is a two-time graduate of the Tennessee Criminal Defense College (2017 and 2019), a selective and intensive program devoted to advanced jury trial advocacy. His continued participation reflects a career-long investment in mastering courtroom persuasion and constitutional defense.

Gordon maintains a strong trial record in criminal defense, having handled matters ranging from speeding citations to first-degree murder. Many of the most serious cases have been tried before juries. His experience spans the full spectrum of criminal litigation—investigation, pretrial suppression practice, jury trial, and post-conviction review. He has successfully argued and won appeals before the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals, reinforcing his ability to protect clients at every stage of the litigation process.

His reputation for disciplined preparation has recently led to his representation of law enforcement officers and other first responders before professional administrative boards—high-stakes proceedings where credibility, precision, and trial skill are paramount.

While criminal trial work remains central to his practice, Gordon also devotes a portion of his litigation practice to personal injury, conservatorships, and probate matters. The intensity and rigor of criminal defense—where liberty is at stake—have sharpened his ability to prepare and litigate complex civil disputes with the same strategic focus and courtroom command. Clients in civil court benefit directly from the discipline forged in serious felony defense.

Gordon's leadership within the profession is extensive. He was selected for the 2025 Leadership Law Class of the Tennessee Bar Association, an honor reserved for attorneys demonstrating statewide leadership and professional distinction. He served three years (2020–2023) on the Middle Tennessee Board of Directors for the Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, contributing to the advancement of criminal defense advocacy across the region.

He is also a former President of the Putnam County Bar Association, Upper Cumberland Trial Lawyers, and Upper Cumberland Young Lawyers—roles reflecting sustained leadership and the respect of his peers in the Upper Cumberland legal community.

Gordon holds an AV Preeminent® Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, signifying that he has been peer rated at the highest level of professional excellence for legal ability, ethics, and courtroom skill. He has also been recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star, reflecting consistent professional achievement among his peers.

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