Fight Drug Possession Charges With the Help of An Experienced Defense Lawyer
A conviction for drug possession can have serious and lasting impact on your future. If you have been charged with possession of a controlled substance, it is important to understand the penalties you face and the options you have for presenting your defense. A solid defense can result in a positive outcome such as:
- Charges dismissed
- Deferred adjudication
- Drug court (also called recovery court) as an option
- Probation
At The Law Office of Jeffrey Jones, our Bartlett drug possession attorney has successfully represented countless Tennessee residents who have been charged with drug possession. As a highly experienced litigator, attorney Jeffrey Jones has the skill and knowledge needed to help you develop an aggressive defense and pursue the best results that the facts allow.
About Tennessee Drug Possession Offenses and Penalties
In Tennessee, possession of even a small amount of drugs may be considered simple possession. Simple possession is charged as a misdemeanor, although repeat offenses can lead to felony charges.
Each level of offense carries different penalties, including:
- First offense: An individual convicted of simple drug possession for the first time faces up to one year in jail and a $250 fine. First-offense drug possession is charged as a misdemeanor.
- Second offense: A second-offense conviction for drug possession is still considered a misdemeanor, though the penalties for a conviction are more severe than a first offense. A conviction goes on your criminal record.
- Third offense or higher: Individuals who have been arrested for a third-offense possession may face felony-level charges. Felony drug possession convictions carry stiffer penalties, including one to six years of incarceration.
How Do Laws Differ For The Possession Of Marijuana, Cocaine, OxyContin And Other Substances?
Tennessee classifies controlled substances into several categories, known as schedules. These categories include:
- Schedule I: Drugs that are the most dangerous and have the highest risk of addiction are considered Schedule I substances. These substances include LSD, heroin, Ecstasy, psilocybin, khat, crack cocaine and speed.
- Schedule II: Substances classified into Schedule II have a high risk of abuse, but also have legitimate medical uses. Schedule II drugs include cocaine, methamphetamines, methadone and amphetamines.
- Schedule III: The third category of drugs includes substances that are slightly less dangerous than the first two schedules, but still have a moderate risk of abuse. Schedule III substances include Lortab, Adderall, Ritalin, hydrocodone, ketamine, depressants and anabolic steroids.
- Schedule IV: Substances included in Schedule IV have a slight risk of dependency and often have medical uses. Schedule IV drugs include sedatives, Xanax, Valium and other tranquilizers.
- Schedule V: Substances with low risk of dependency, such as codeine, are classified into Schedule V.
- Schedule VI: Drugs with a low risk of physical dependency are classified into Schedule VI. Marijuana is the most recognized substance classified into this schedule.
- Schedule VII: The final category includes only butyl nitrite or poppers.
Penalties increase when more dangerous drugs are involved. Individuals charged with possession of a Schedule I substance such as heroin and methamphetamine face a minimum of eight years in prison. Possession of marijuana is still a crime in Tennessee.
Drug court, diversion, drug treatment and probation offer available alternatives to jail time and a criminal record or criminal conviction. Work with an experienced, dedicated attorney to maximize your chances of obtaining a promising outcome.
Is It Possible to Recover Money and Property Seized by Police?
Recovering money, cars, vehicles and bank accounts seized during a drug investigation can be difficult but is not necessarily impossible. We will work hard to assist you in the claims process.
Our staff is well-versed in the seizure process, and we offer detailed guidance through the process of reclaiming your money, vehicles or property.
Discuss Your Defense Options With A Memphis Area Lawyer
If you have been charged with possession of drugs, it is important to act quickly to plan your defense. The Law Office of Jeffrey Jones in Bartlett offers detailed and aggressive defense representation to Memphis area clients. We have the skill and knowledge needed to help you avoid or limit the penalties of a drug possession conviction.
Call 901-410-5751 or contact us online today to discuss your drug possession defense options.