Defenses to Drug Charges in Tennessee
Drug charges in Tennessee often hinge on the Fourth Amendment of the United States Constitution. It provides the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. Law enforcement patrol the Tennessee highways looking for certain indications that a vehicle might be trafficking drugs. Naturally, vehicle stop and search issues are always closely examined. Some cases there may be search warrants based on information provided by Confidential Informants. The credibility and reliability of the information provided is always in question. These are just a few of the questions that our Tennessee criminal defense lawyers must examine.
What is a likely sentence for a drug conviction in Tennessee?
In determining the possible punishment and exposure for a conviction there are several factors to be considered and weighed. Most obviously, the classification of the drug charge. Simple Possession, for example and regardless of the type of drug, is a Class A Misdemeanor and is punishable by up to 11 months, 29 days in jail. Felony drug crimes are classified based on the schedule of the drug, the amount of the drug, and the possible sentencing range depends on the number of prior felony convictions of the person charged.
Many courts offer eligible drug crime offenders unique sentence alternatives through Drug Court. Drug Courts across Tennessee serve to assist those struggling with addiction and serve as an acknowledgment that incarceration is not always the most productive or efficient punishment.
Aside from taking the case to trial, is there a way to keep this drug charge off my record?
Possibly. Every case is unique in it’s facts and circumstances. Pre-Trial or Judicial Diversion may be one option. Call our Cookeville criminal lawyers today to discuss possible options.
Drug charges in Tennessee carries serious consequences if you are convicted. If you are facing any drug charge in Tennessee, you should always consult with a drug defense attorney about your case and discuss possible defenses. There are a number of factors which may enhance the seriousness of the drug charge, such as if the crime was committed with 1,000 feet of a school zone.
It is very important to have an experienced Tennessee criminal lawyer examine your case, the facts and discuss with you what defenses you may have and whether you qualify for any alternative sentencing. Our Tennessee attorneys include a former prosecutor and have handled thousands of drug cases. With offices in Cookeville and Nashville, if you are facing a criminal charge in the Middle or East Tennessee area, call our criminal attorneys today.
Call our Cookeville Lawyers today at (931) 303-0421, or our Nashville office at (615) 829 – 8259
More Information on Tennessee Drug Possession:
Simple Possession (Misdemeanor Drug Possession)
Possession with Intent (Felony Drug Charges – Including the Manufacture and Sale)
Drug Possession Citations in Tennessee