Drug crimes are serious, and they need to be addressed as soon as you know that you’ll be facing them. From the moment that you’re arrested, you’re being monitored. What you say or do might be used against you, and your actions could lead to harsh penalties.
Tennessee is hard on drug use, possession, trafficking and distribution. You might face one or more charges such as:
- Drug trafficking
- Drug manufacturing
- Possession with an intent to sell
- Selling a controlled substance
- Possession
The good news about Tennessee is that first-time offenses for drug possession crimes are considered to be misdemeanors no matter what kind of drug is involved so long as you have less than a half-ounce of the drug. Simple possession, a misdemeanor on a first offense, can still lead to up to a year in jail and fines of up to $2,500. Possessing more than a half an ounce turns the charge into a felony.
Drugs fall into categories known as schedules. Schedule I drugs are the most serious because they are completely illegal and considered to have no medical purpose. On the other hand, Schedule IV or V drugs are less addictive and harmful, so the penalties may be lower, depending on what you have in your possession.
If you are caught in possession of drugs of any kind, it’s smart to reach out to your attorney right away. A good defense can go a long way toward reducing the penalties you face and the potential for time in prison. You may also need to defend against additional charges added on by the prosecution.