Jerry Summers

Attorney Jerry Summers is a founding partner of Summers, Rufolo & Rodgers, P.C., law firm in Chattanooga, Tennessee. A native of Chattanooga and Hamilton County, Mr. Summers focuses his practice primarily on criminal defense, and he provides unmatched counsel and support to those who stand accused of any type of felony or misdemeanor criminal offense.

A nationally ranked trial attorney with more than 54 years of total legal experience, Mr. Summers has achieved remarkable success advocating on behalf of the accused. As a former prosecutor with the Hamilton County District Attorney's Office, he has invaluable insight into the criminal justice system from both sides, which makes him all the more effective at devising the best possible defense strategies for those charged with DUI, drug crimes, violent crimes, white collar crimes and other serious violations.

Along with criminal defense, Mr. Summers has extensive experience handling personal injury and wrongful death claims involving asbestos exposure and mesothelioma, motor vehicle accidents, defective products and nursing home abuse. He also has experience with employment law, health care law, election campaign and political law, workers' compensation, Social Security Disability and other legal areas.

Honored for his outstanding professionalism and service, Mr. Summers has earned consistent recognition from The Best Lawyers in America© along with many other top rankings and endorsements from his peers. Moreover, he has also accepted invitations to join some of the country's most prestigious legal societies, and he is a fellow with the American College of Trial Lawyers, the American Board of Trial Advocates, The International Academy of Trial Lawyers and the International Society of Barristers.

A leader in his legal community, Mr. Summers has served as president for both the Tennessee Criminal Defense Lawyers Association and the Tennessee Trial Lawyers Association. He has also served on the board of various legal organizations, including the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the American Association for Justice. He also supports his local community through his involvement with the Area IV Special Olympics, CADAS and the Orange Grove Center for individuals with physical and mental disabilities.

A 1963 graduate of The University of the South, Mr. Summers obtained his Juris Doctor in 1966 from The University of Tennessee College of Law. He is admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit and the U.S. Supreme Court.

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