About
John G. Oliva is a Nashville, Tennessee, attorney whose practice at John G. Oliva Attorney At Law, centers on criminal defense law. He represents clients in state and federal criminal matters, including felonies, drug crimes, white-collar offenses, DUI/DWI, and misdemeanors. His practice extends to death penalty cases, parole and probation matters, appeals, and military law. He is admitted to practice in Tennessee and several federal courts, including the US Supreme Court.
Oliva earned his J.D. from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, where he completed his legal education and prepared for a career in law. He earned his B.A. from the University of Tennessee before attending law school. His academic background provided the foundation for his work in criminal defense and litigation.
Oliva has held numerous leadership roles within the Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. His service has included positions as treasurer, vice president, president-elect, and president. He has worked on committees involving military justice, continuing legal education, legislation, publications, and long-range planning. He has been a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He received the TACDL Lionel R. Barrett, Jr. Award and was named the Middle District of Tennessee C.J.A. Panel Lawyer of the Year.
John G. Oliva brings decades of criminal defense and professional leadership experience to his legal practice. His background includes service as a Captain and Judge Advocate in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. He has served on the Middle District of Tennessee C.J.A. Panel Selection Committee and previously served on its Steering Committee. His work spans criminal litigation, federal court litigation, state litigation, and military practice.
Law Office Affiliations
- Attorney and Member, John G. Oliva Attorney At Law
- Member, Tennessee Bar Association
- Member, Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- Member, American Bar Association, Military Law Section, Young Lawyers Division (1984–1993)
Licensed State
- Tennessee
Education
- University of Tennessee at Knoxville
Juris Doctor (JD) - University of Tennessee
Bachelor of Arts
Awards & Badges




- Assault & Battery
- Drug Crime
- DUI & DWI
- Federal Crime
- Homicide
- Parole & Probation
- White Collar Crime
- Appeals
- Domestic Violence
- Military Law
- Tax Fraud & Tax Evasion




