Marya L. Schalk

Chattanooga, TN

20+ Years Experience

Licensed in 1 State

About Marya

Marya L. Schalk is a dedicated and experienced criminal defense attorney who has spent nearly two decades fighting for her clients in state and federal courts. She’s passionate about protecting the rights of the accused and making sure constitutional protections aren’t just words on paper-but are upheld in every case. Known for her aggressive, fact-driven approach, Marya understands that every case is unique and requires a tailored strategy. A proud graduate of the University of Tennessee College of Law, Marya earned her Juris Doctor in 2005 after completing her undergraduate studies at Vanderbilt University, where she graduated cum laude with dual majors in Sociology and Psychology. After law school, she clerked for the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals, gaining firsthand insight into the appellate process-experience that continues to shape her legal strategy today. Throughout her career, she has successfully handled complex criminal cases, including federal sentencing appeals and high-profile defense matters such as DUI/DWI, drug offenses, white-collar crimes, fraud, embezzlement, sex crimes, violent crimes such as assault and homicide, theft, firearm offenses, conspiracy, and federal charges. She frequently collaborates with attorneys Jerry Summers and Ben McGowan on intricate criminal defense matters that require a team approach, ensuring that clients benefit from a comprehensive and strategic legal defense when heading to trial. Marya is admitted to practice in Tennessee, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, and the Supreme Court of the United States. Throughout her career, she has successfully handled complex criminal cases, including federal sentencing appeals and high-profile defense matters. Her work has led to key legal victories with reversals and remands in the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals, the Tennessee Supreme Court, and the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals. Her dedication to criminal defense has been recognized by her being named to the Mid-South Super Lawyers and Rising Stars list for over a decade. She’s also an active member of the Chattanooga Bar Association, Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Federal Bar Association, and SETLAW. Outside the courtroom, Marya is just as committed to her community. She’s serves on the board of the Chattanooga Football Club Academy and has been a longtime fundraiser and team captain for the Arthritis Foundation.