Chattanooga Drug Possession Attorneys

Aggressive Defense for Drug Possession Charges in Tennessee

Drug possession is a serious crime in Tennessee. If you are convicted, you could face jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing drug possession charges, it is important to take the situation seriously and seek legal representation as soon as possible.

At Cavett, Abbott & Weiss, our Chattanooga drug possession lawyers have extensive experience representing clients in all types of drug cases. We understand the potential consequences of a conviction and will work diligently to protect your rights and your future. Our attorneys are skilled litigators who are not afraid to take your case to trial, if necessary. We are committed to providing you with the aggressive representation you need and the compassionate client service you deserve.

Call (423) 264-2206 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Chattanooga drug possession lawyers today.

What is Considered Drug Possession in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, drug possession involves knowingly and intentionally having control or possession of illegal substances. Controlled substances include drugs like marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, prescription medications without a valid prescription, and other prohibited substances.

Five Types of Drug Possession Charges in Tennessee

• Simple Possession and Casual Exchange: This charge applies to individuals found in possession of a small amount of a controlled substance for personal use. Additionally, the casual exchange of drugs without payment falls under this category.
• Possession with Intent: If you are found in possession of drugs with the intent to distribute or sell them, you can face more severe consequences. Factors such as the quantity of drugs, packaging materials, scales, and large amounts of cash can contribute to this charge.
• Sale of a Controlled Substance: This charge pertains to actively engaging in the sale or exchange of illegal drugs. Whether it involves a single transaction or repeated sales, the penalties can be significant.
• Drug Trafficking and Conspiracy: Drug trafficking involves the transportation, distribution, or sale of controlled substances on a larger scale. Conspiracy charges apply when individuals collaborate to commit drug-related offenses, such as planning and coordinating drug distribution networks.
• Drug Manufacturing: Engaging in the production, cultivation, or manufacturing of illegal drugs constitutes the charge of drug manufacturing. This includes activities like operating meth labs, cultivating marijuana, or producing controlled substances.

What Are the Penalties for Drug Possession in Tennessee?

The penalties for drug-related charges in Tennessee vary depending on several factors, including the type and quantity of drugs involved, previous convictions, and other aggravating circumstances. Possible consequences may include:

• Fines
• Probation
• Mandatory drug education programs
• Loss of driving privileges
• Community service
• Drug rehabilitation programs
• Jail or prison time

Defending Against Drug Possession Charges

If you are facing drug possession charges, you may be wondering if there is any way to fight the charges. The good news is that there are several defenses that may be available to you, depending on the circumstances of your case.

Some common defenses to drug possession charges include:

• Illegal search and seizure: The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. If the police violated your constitutional rights by conducting an illegal search, any evidence they found may be inadmissible in court.
• Lack of knowledge: You must have known that the drugs were present in order to be convicted of drug possession. If the prosecution cannot prove that you had knowledge of the drugs, the charges against you may be dismissed.
• Valid prescription: Some drugs are illegal to possess without a valid prescription. If you had a valid prescription for the drugs in question, you may be able to avoid a conviction.

Our Chattanooga drug possession attorneys can review the facts of your case and help you determine the best defense strategy. We will conduct a thorough investigation and gather all available evidence to build a strong case on your behalf.

How Can a Drug Possession Conviction Affect My Life?

A drug possession conviction can have serious consequences that can impact your life for years to come. In addition to the criminal penalties, you could also face a number of collateral consequences.

Some of the potential consequences of a drug possession conviction include:

• Permanent criminal record: A drug possession conviction will go on your permanent criminal record and can be seen by anyone who conducts a background check on you. This can make it difficult to find a job, secure housing, or obtain a loan.
• Loss of professional licenses: If you have a professional license, such as a license to practice medicine or law, a drug possession conviction could result in the loss of your license.
• Loss of student loans: A drug possession conviction can make you ineligible for federal student loans and other types of financial aid.
• Immigration consequences: If you are not a U.S. citizen, a drug possession conviction could result in deportation or make you ineligible for naturalization.
• Child custody issues: A drug possession conviction can also impact child custody and visitation rights.

Given the potential consequences of a drug possession conviction, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Our attorneys can help you understand your rights and options and work to minimize the potential consequences of a conviction.

How Our Chattanooga Drug Possession Lawyers Can Help

If you are facing drug possession charges, you may be wondering if you really need a lawyer. After all, you can just plead guilty and get the whole thing over with, right? Wrong. Drug possession is a serious crime in Tennessee and can result in severe penalties. You should never plead guilty without first consulting with an experienced drug possession attorney.

Here are some of the ways our Chattanooga drug possession lawyers can help:

• Conduct a thorough investigation: We will conduct a thorough investigation of the facts and circumstances surrounding your arrest. We will review the police report, interview witnesses, and gather all available evidence to build a strong case on your behalf.
• Protect your rights: We will ensure that your constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process. We will review the search and seizure procedures to determine if the police violated your rights. If they did, we will file a motion to suppress the evidence and work to get the charges against you dismissed.
• Negotiation Skills: If it is in your best interest, we will negotiate with prosecutors to potentially reduce charges, explore diversion programs, or seek alternative sentencing options.
• Provide you with the support you need: We understand that facing drug possession charges can be overwhelming. Our attorneys will be there to guide you through the legal process and provide you with the support you need during this difficult time.

Our Chattanooga drug possession attorneys have a proven track record of success. We have helped countless clients in Chattanooga and throughout Tennessee get their charges reduced or dismissed. We are not afraid to take on the toughest cases and will fight to protect your rights and your future.

Schedule a Consultation with Our Chattanooga Drug Possession Lawyers

If you are facing drug possession charges, you need an experienced attorney on your side. At Cavett, Abbott & Weiss, our Chattanooga drug possession lawyers have extensive experience representing clients in all types of drug cases. We understand the potential consequences of a conviction and will work diligently to protect your rights and your future. Our attorneys are skilled litigators who are not afraid to take your case to trial, if necessary. We are committed to providing you with the aggressive representation you need and the compassionate client service you deserve.

Call (423) 264-2206 or you can contact us online to schedule a consultation to discuss your case with an experienced Chattanooga drug possession lawyer today.