Murfreesboro Drug Crime Attorney

Defending Against in Possession, Distribution, Trafficking, and Manufacturing Charges in Tennessee

Have you been charged with a drug crime? Whether you have been arrested for simple possession of marijuana or more serious drug offenses, it is important that you seek professional legal representation before the prosecution gains an advantage. Our Murfreesboro drug crimes lawyers at Santel | Garner, who are led by a former Assistant District Attorney General, can assist you.

Facing drug charges? Reach out to us at (615) 987-0268 or book online a free consultation with our Murfreesboro Drug Crime Attorneys. 

Types of Drug Crime Charges in Tennessee

Any sort of controlled dangerous substance (CDS) in almost any amount can constitute a drug crime in Tennessee. Common examples of a CDS are cocaine, marijuana, heroin, methamphetamines, and ecstasy. Over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs can also trigger drug crime charges if there is evidence that they have been abused, misused, or illegally handled in anyway.

Some of the most common drug crime charges include:

• Possession: You may not have an illegal narcotic on your person, within your property, or directly under your control.
• Distribution: Moving an illegal drug from one location or party to another, even if it does not involve a direct sale or profit, is a criminal violation.
• Trafficking: A high-scale form of distribution, drug trafficking involves detailed organization and preparation to move or sell a great quantity of drugs. This is widely considered the most serious of all drug charges.
• Manufacturing: Without the appropriate licenses, permits, and equipment, manufacturing a drug of any sort is strictly illegal. When the drug is naturally occurring, manufacturing is called cultivating.
• Prescription Drug Fraud: Obtaining prescription medications through false information, such as forging prescriptions or using stolen identities, or visiting multiple doctors to obtain prescriptions for controlled substances is illegal.

Penalties for Drug Crimes in Tennessee

If you are convicted of a drug crime, the penalties you face will depend on the facts of your case, including the amount and type of drugs involved, why you apparently had the drugs, any other crimes connected with the offense, and any prior drug crime convictions. Sentencing may carry the possibility of jail or prison sentences in excess of several years, thousands of dollars in fines, probation, and community service.

Here’s an overview of the potential penalties for various drug crimes:

Drug Possession

In Tennessee, drug possession penalties depend on the type and amount of drug. For marijuana, possessing less than 1/2 ounce is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and/or a $2,500 fine. More than 1/2 ounce is a Class E felony, with 1 to 6 years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine. 

For other controlled substances like cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine, simple possession of small amounts is a Class A misdemeanor with similar penalties, while larger quantities may result in a Class E felony or higher, with up to 6 years in prison and fines varying by amount and substance.

Drug Trafficking

Drug trafficking penalties for cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine are severe in Tennessee. For each of these substances, trafficking less than 0.5 grams is classified as a Class B felony, with penalties including 8 to 30 years in prison and/or a fine up to $100,000. Trafficking 0.5 grams or more of any of these drugs is classified as a Class A felony, resulting in 15 to 60 years in prison and/or a fine up to $500,000.

Drug Manufacturing

Manufacturing methamphetamine is classified as a Class A felony, which can result in 15 to 60 years in prison and/or a fine up to $500,000, with additional charges possible if a meth lab is involved. Manufacturing other drugs also incurs significant penalties, which vary based on the specific substance and the scale of the operation, generally ranging from Class B to Class A felonies.

Prescription Drug Fraud

Fraudulent prescriptions are typically classified as a Class D felony or higher, depending on the specifics of the case. Penalties include 2 to 12 years in prison and/or a fine up to $5,000.

Possession with Intent to Manufacture or Distribute

Depending on the type and amount of drug, it constitutes a Class E to Class A Felony. Penalties could range from 1 to 60 years in prison and/or fines up to $500,000.

What are Common Defenses Against Drug Charges in Tennessee?

Defending against drug charges in Tennessee involves various legal strategies, depending on the specifics of the case. 

Here are some common defenses against drug-related charges:

• Illegal Search and Seizure
• Lack of Knowledge
• Illegal Arrest or Detention
• Medical Necessity
• Entrapment
• Chain of Custody Issues
• Mistake of Fact
• Lack of Evidence
• Coercion or Duress
• Involuntary Intoxication due to someone else’s actions

At Santel | Garner, we investigate your case to define which is the best defense strategy. Set up a free consultation with our Murfreesboro drug crime lawyers.

Contact Our Murfreesboro Drug Crimes Lawyer Today

In the face of any criminal charges, it is in your best interests to engage the services of a drug crimes defense attorney with the knowhow and skills to construct a strong, unwavering defense. Your selection of legal guidance may be what makes or breaks your chances of reducing your charges, having them dropped, or winning a not guilty verdict. 

By contacting our team, you will be taking a crucial step in fighting the charges against you and minimizing the negative consequences they can bring.

Facing drug charges? Contact our Murfreesboro drug crimes lawyers now calling at (615) 987-0268.