Drug Crimes Put 70 Years of Combined Experience in Your Corner

Chattanooga Drug Crime Defense Lawyers

Decades of Combined Criminal Law Experience

According to Tennessee’s Bureau of Investigation, 80 percent of crimes committed in the state are drug-related. Due to the deep-rooted social and criminal problems connected with the use of illegal drugs, drug offenders are vigorously pursued and prosecuted in Tennessee courts. The state maintains seven drug “schedules,” involving all types of narcotics, drug precursors, and illegally-obtained prescription drugs, such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, Adderall, and fentanyl. Being found in possession of such drugs can lead to severe criminal penalties.

Why Choose Our Chattanooga Drug Charge Lawyer

At Speek, Turner & Newkirk PLLC, we understand the high stakes involved in drug charges. You need a legal professional on your side as soon as possible to protect your rights and ensure fair treatment. Our attorneys bring more than 70 years of combined experience, along with a team-based approach to criminal defense, to each and every case. With vast trial experience and favorable relationships with local judges, our team is well-equipped to fight for you.

Arrested on drug charges? Contact one of our Chattanooga drug crime defense attorneys at (423) 799-3030 and request a free consultation.

Penalties for Drug Crimes

All drug crime convictions in the state of Tennessee carry an array of penalties, including but not limited to:

  • Required counseling
  • Probation
  • Jail or prison time
  • Substantial fines
  • Suspension of your driver’s license
  • Community service
  • Forfeiture of possessions related to the offense

Tennessee drug crimes include not only simple possession but possession with intent to sell, illegal drug sales, drug cultivation or manufacture, and drug trafficking. All Tennessee drug crimes other than simple possession are charged as felonies. With intent to sell, you can face up to 60 years in prison and $500,000 in fines based on the weight of drugs that were found to be in your possession.

If you are convicted if either a misdemeanor or felony drug crime, you will also be left with a permanent criminal record that can be detrimental to future opportunities for employment, housing, professional licenses, and more. As a convicted felon, you will lose certain rights and, if you are a non-citizen, a conviction can lead to deportation and other immigration consequences.

Understanding Drug Possession Charges in Tennessee

Drug charges in Tennessee will depend on many factors, such as the type of drug found in your possession, the quantity of drugs involved, whether it is your first offense or a repeat offense, and other factors. Simple possession of an illegal drug is the lowest level drug offense, typically charged as a Class A misdemeanor and punishable by up to a year in jail and/or fines up to $2,500.

First and second drug possession charges carry the above misdemeanor penalties, while a third or subsequent drug possession or possession of half an ounce or more of any drug is charged as a felony. A felony is punishable by one to six years in prison and fines up to $3,000. An additional fine up to $10,000 will be levied if your offense occurred within 1,000 feet of a school, park, recreational area, or library.

Marijuana Possession & Drug Paraphernalia

Unlike many other states, Tennessee has not legalized the recreational use of marijuana. You can be charged with a misdemeanor for a first- or second-offense simple possession no matter how small the amount. Furthermore, you can be charged with possession of drug paraphernalia in connection with marijuana, as well as other drugs. Drug paraphernalia can include pipes, bongs, hookahs, rolling papers, roach clips, and more.

Felony Drug Charges

You will be charged with a felony if you are found to be selling or making illegal drugs in Tennessee. The class of felony you will face will depend on the schedule of the drug involved. For example, it is a Class B felony for selling 0.5 grams or more of cocaine, punishable by up to eight years in prison and fines up to $100,000. Trafficking in even larger amounts will result in steeper fines and longer prison sentences.

You Can Rely on Our Legal Team

Drug crimes are serious legal matters that call for serious legal representation from a trusted attorney. Our Chattanooga drug crime lawyers are prepared to work quickly to defend you against all types of drug charges. We know the law, the legal procedures, how to challenge evidence, and how to negotiate and litigate in search of helping resolve your case in the best possible way.

Learn more about how our criminal defense lawyer in Chattanooga can help by contacting us at (423) 799-3030.

Peace of Mind Knowing We Are on Your Side

See What Our Clients Are Saying About Us

  • “They are always willing to go the extra mile for every one of their clients.”

    - Madeline Y.

  • “Trust me, if you need a drug lawyer, he is the best. I don't know what I would have done without you. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

    - Eric K.

  • “I went to them because I needed the best. These guys definitely got the job done. Thank all of you guys!!!!!!!”

    - Cotey A.

Why Choose Us?

See What Sets Us Apart
  • Trial Experienced Attorneys

    We have a vast amount of trial experience, which sets us apart from other firms in the area.

  • Well-Known & Respected

    We have an easy to recognize location near the courthouse, allowing us to be known and revered by local judges.

  • All of Your Legal Needs in One Place

    You don’t have to use different law firms for your legal needs, you can use just one.

  • A True Team Approach

    Our large legal team allows us the resources and ability to prepare cases for trial.

Days Make a Difference

Don't Hesitate to Put Us on Your Side
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