About

The Music City defender Cesar Arbelaez

Call For A Consultation 615-293-7698

Cesar Arbelaez is a dedicated and experienced legal professional whose career has been shaped by a commitment to justice and a deep understanding of both sides of the legal system. Born in Colombia and immigrating to the United States at the age of 9, Cesar faced the challenges of learning a new language and adapting to a new culture. Despite these early hurdles, his passion for law emerged early on, and he worked tirelessly to become proficient in English, determined to pursue a career in the legal field.

Cesar moved to Nashville, Tennessee in 2005, where he graduated from McGavock High School in 2008 and then attended the University of Memphis. While in college, Cesar was actively involved in the University’s Mock Trial team and interned at the Tennessee Legislature, laying the groundwork for his future legal career. He graduated with honors, double-majoring in Political Science and Philosophy, and went on to attend the University of Memphis’ Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, where he continued to excel academically and professionally. As a student, he made a lasting impact by founding the law school’s Hispanic Law Student Association, and he gained practical legal experience interning at the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office.

Upon earning his law degree, Cesar passed the bar exam on his first attempt and was hired as the first Hispanic Male Prosecutor at the Davidson County District Attorney’s Office in Nashville. In this role, he honed his skills in both misdemeanor and felony prosecution, specializing in Domestic Violence and DUI cases. His experience in trial advocacy and courtroom dynamics helped solidify his reputation as a skilled litigator.

In 2020, Cesar transitioned to criminal defense, motivated by a desire to advocate for individuals often facing the harsh realities of the justice system. This move allowed him to leverage his extensive prosecutorial experience while ensuring fair representation for the accused. Since making the switch, Cesar has represented over 500 individuals and built a strong track record of successful resolutions, including numerous trial victories and favorable negotiated outcomes. His knowledge of trial strategy, courtroom procedure, and relationships with judges and prosecutors across 20 Middle Tennessee counties make him a formidable advocate for his clients.

Cesar’s journey from an immigrant child to a distinguished attorney exemplifies his resilience, dedication, and commitment to justice for all. Whether through litigation or negotiation, his focus remains on securing the best possible outcomes for those he represents.