I'm Ryan Hanzelik. For nearly twenty years I've defended Chattanooga families, the wrongly accused, and the seriously injured — through divorces, custody battles, criminal charges, and life-altering accidents. Down to earth. Compassionate. And, when your case calls for it, an aggressive fighter who does not back down.
Every client of The Hanzelik Firm speaks and meets directly with me — not a paralegal, not a junior associate. You get my judgment, my preparation, and my voice in the courtroom.
The largest part of my practice. I have won custody for fathers and mothers, negotiated fair divorces that protect what matters, and represented clients through some of the hardest moments of their lives.
Learn more →From DUI and drug possession to assault, theft, and murder — I have saved clients from life sentences and obtained dismissals of serious felony charges. I know the Chattanooga courts and the prosecutors who work them.
Learn more →Car wrecks, truck accidents, wrongful death. I have negotiated six-figure settlements for injured clients in Tennessee and Georgia. No fee unless we recover for you.
Learn more →When you call my firm, you speak with me. When we meet, you sit across from me. When your case is filed, I am the one who drafts the motion, takes the deposition, and stands up in court for you.
I started practicing law in 2006 and opened my own practice in 2007. Since then I've represented thousands of clients in divorces, custody battles, criminal cases, and serious injury claims. My father practiced law for forty years — I learned this work from him before I learned it from a courtroom.
I am happily married to my wife Heather and the proud father of three daughters. My life revolves around my family, which is exactly why I understand what is at stake when yours is on the line.
Ryan was exceptionally professional and explained every detail as my divorce case proceeded. He relentlessly communicated my proposals to opposing counsel and gave awesome effective representation in court. I came out with a very fair settlement and was able to keep the house.
The best in Chattanooga, hands down. He knows his way around the courtroom. Treats every case as if it's his only one. With being a father I was expecting to not get a fair chance — Ryan never allowed that to be an option. His passion and determination gave me a win that allows me to be an active father in my son's life.
From my very first conversation with Ryan, I knew he was someone who could be trusted with the most difficult situation I have been through. Ryan stood by my side and made sure each concern was heard regarding a difficult interstate custody situation. If you are looking for someone experienced, knowledgeable, kind, understanding, and genuinely caring about your case — Ryan is your guy.
Whether you're facing a divorce you didn't see coming, charges that could change your life, or an accident that wasn't your fault — call me. We will talk through where you stand and what comes next.