Nashville Drug Crime Defense Attorney
Get a legal warrior on your side when you’re facing drug charges in Nashville
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Facing drug crime charges in Nashville demands skilled legal guidance and strategic defense. It also requires tenacity and a refusal to back down in the face of intimidation from law enforcement. As experienced criminal defense attorneys, our team knows how important it is to fight back against accusations. Whether you're accused of possession, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking of controlled substances, Tennessee's stringent drug laws can put your future at risk. At Waynick Law, we stand up against the government to protect your rights and shield you from the damage these charges can cause you and your family. With thorough preparation, skilled negotiation, and aggressive advocacy in court, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for each of our clients. If you're facing drug-related charges, contact us today for a confidential consultation. We want to hear your story and to start using our experience to help you fight back.
What is drug scheduling?
Drug crimes range from minor offenses to serious charges that can land you in jail. The type of drug and what prosecutors accuse you of doing with it – using, selling, producing – will play a role in the charges. Tennessee law categorizes controlled substances into seven schedules (Schedule I through Schedule VII), each with varying degrees of regulation and penalties associated with their possession, distribution, and manufacture. Here’s an overview of the different schedules and examples of substances in each:
- Schedule I:
- Definition: Substances with a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use in treatment in the United States or lacking accepted safety for use.
- Examples: Heroin, LSD, ecstasy (MDMA), and certain synthetic cannabinoids.
- Schedule II:
- Definition: Substances with a high potential for abuse, currently accepted medical use with severe restrictions and the potential for severe psychological or physical dependence.
- Examples: Cocaine, oxycodone, methamphetamine, and fentanyl.
- Schedule III:
- Definition: Substances with a potential for abuse less than Schedule I or II drugs, currently accepted medical use in treatment, and moderate to low physical dependence or high psychological dependence.
- Examples: Anabolic steroids, some barbiturates, and ketamine.
- Schedule IV:
- Definition: Substances with a low potential for abuse relative to Schedule III drugs, currently accepted medical use in treatment and limited physical or psychological dependence.
- Examples: Xanax (Alprazolam), Valium (Diazepam), and Ambien (Zolpidem).
- Schedule V:
- Definition: Substances with a lower potential for abuse than Schedule IV drugs, currently accepted medical use in treatment and limited physical or psychological dependence.
- Examples: Some cough preparations containing codeine or similar narcotics.
- Schedule VI:
- Definition: Marijuana and its derivatives.
- Examples: Cannabis, THC, and products containing marijuana extracts.
- Schedule VII:
- Definition: Substances that are controlled substances under federal law but not listed in Schedules I through VI.
- Examples: Butyl nitrite, gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), and substances with hallucinogenic effects not otherwise listed.
The penalties for drug-related offenses in Tennessee vary based on where the controlled substance falls on the schedule. Offenses involving Schedule I and II substances typically carry harsher penalties than those involving substances in lower schedules. Penalties may include fines, imprisonment, mandatory minimum sentences, and forfeiture of assets.
Understanding the specific schedule of a controlled substance is critical for legal compliance and defense strategies in drug-related cases. If you’re facing drug charges in Tennessee, our battle-tested Nashville criminal defense attorneys will aggressively defend your rights and guide you through the legal system. We're not just your lawyers; we're your legal warriors.
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What are the potential drug charges in Nashville?
In Nashville, the type of controlled substance and your involvement with it will both play roles in the charges you face. Here are some common drug charges under Tennessee law:
- Simple possession: Possession of a controlled substance for personal use without intent to sell is the least severe drug-related offense. Generally, this is a misdemeanor, with penalties including fines and possible jail time depending on the substance and amount.
- Possession with intent to sell or distribute: Possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute or sell is more serious than simple possession. These charges can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the type and amount of drugs you have in your possession. Penalties for this will range from significant fines to
- Drug trafficking: Involvement in the transportation, sale, or distribution of large quantities of controlled substances is more serious as it suggests greater involvement in the drug trade as opposed to use. Trafficking is considered a felony with severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines.
- Manufacturing or cultivation: Production or cultivation of illegal drugs, such as methamphetamine or marijuana, is also typically a felony offense with harsh penalties, including extensive prison sentences and significant fines.
- Prescription drug fraud: Fraudulent obtaining, possession, or distribution of prescription medications is a crime related to the illegal use of otherwise legal pharmaceuticals. This can range from misdemeanor to felony charges, depending on the specific actions and quantities involved.
- Drug paraphernalia: Possession or distribution of equipment or materials used for manufacturing, using, or concealing drugs is often a more minor offense. In most cases, it’s a misdemeanor, with fines and possible jail time depending on the circumstances.
It’s also important to keep the following under consideration:
- Enhancements: Penalties may be enhanced based on factors such as prior convictions, the presence of firearms during the offense, or the proximity to schools or parks.
- Federal charges: Some drug offenses may also lead to federal charges, which can carry even more severe penalties.
If you’re facing drug charges, you need a strong defense strategy. The best way to challenge accusations will vary depending on the specific facts in your case – which is why we believe it’s so important to listen to our clients. Common defense approaches may include challenging the legality of search and seizure procedures, disputing the chain of custody of evidence, asserting a lack of knowledge or control over the drugs, or demonstrating entrapment.
If you or someone you know is facing drug-related charges in Nashville, you need a criminal defense attorney who is committed to fighting back with everything they have. A criminal defense warrior can help you understand your options, protect your rights, and work with you to come up with a plan to fight back.
What penalties do drug charges have in Nashville?
As mentioned, the penalties for drug charges can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the type and amount of controlled substance involved, the specific offense (possession, distribution, manufacturing, etc.), and any prior criminal history. While there are too many variables to predict the actual sentence, here’s a rough overview of potential penalties for drug charges:
- Simple possession:
- Classification: Generally a misdemeanor.
- Penalties: Up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, depending on the substance and amount.
- Possession with intent to sell (or distribute):
- Classification: Can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the substance and amount.
- Penalties: Penalties can include substantial fines and imprisonment ranging from one year to multiple years, especially for larger amounts or more serious substances.
- Drug trafficking:
- Classification: Felony.
- Penalties: Depending on the quantity and type of drugs, penalties can include significant fines and mandatory minimum prison sentences. It’s possible for sentences to range from several years to life imprisonment, particularly for large quantities of controlled substances like heroin or cocaine.
- Manufacturing or cultivation:
- Classification: Felony.
- Penalties: Penalties can include lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines, especially for manufacturing operations involving methamphetamine, marijuana, or other controlled substances.
- Prescription drug fraud:
- Classification: Misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances.
- Penalties: Penalties can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the fraud and the quantity of drugs involved.
- Drug paraphernalia:
- Classification: Misdemeanor.
- Penalties: Up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
Given the severe consequences of drug charges in Nashville, you need a fierce legal advocate on your side immediately. Our relentless criminal defense attorneys will dissect every detail of your case, protect your rights, and fight tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome. Whether through hard-hitting negotiations, strategic litigation, or alternative sentencing, we’re ready to go to battle for you.
How can your Nashville drug crime attorneys help my case?
Our Nashville drug crime defense attorney stands as a formidable force, delivering comprehensive and aggressive legal representation for individuals facing drug charges. Here are some of the ways our criminal defense warriors fight for you:
Thorough investigation
We dive deep into the details of your arrest and charges, meticulously analyzing every aspect. Our legal team scrutinizes the circumstances of your arrest and the handling of evidence by law enforcement. We are relentless in uncovering any violations of your constitutional rights, such as unlawful search and seizure. By identifying any procedural errors or rights violations, we can potentially get evidence suppressed, crippling the prosecution's case against you.
Robust defense strategy
We develop robust defense strategies that address the specifics of your situation. Armed with an in-depth understanding of Tennessee’s drug laws, we challenge the prosecution’s evidence at every turn. Whether it's disputing drug test accuracy, questioning witness credibility, or proving your lack of knowledge or control over the substances, we explore all defenses, including entrapment or mistaken identity, leaving no stone unturned.
Skilled negotiation
We are fierce negotiators. When possible, we engage in plea bargaining with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or alternative sentencing options. This might include diversion programs, probation, or rehabilitation instead of jail time. Our mission is to minimize the charges' impact on your life and future, and we fight relentlessly to achieve the most favorable outcome.
Unwavering support
Facing drug charges is daunting, but you’re not alone. We keep you informed at every stage of your case, ensuring that you understand your options and the potential outcomes. Our dedication to client service means that we are always available to answer your questions and address your concerns.
If you or a loved one is facing drug charges in Nashville, act now. Contact our firm today to schedule a confidential consultation. Our experienced drug crime attorneys are ready to provide a vigorous defense, protect your rights, and secure the best possible resolution for your case. We’re prepared to fight for you every step of the way.
Do you have a Nashville drug crime defense attorney near me?
Waynick Law PLLC serves clients out of its offices in Nashville at 95 White Bridge Road, 5th Floor – Suite 512B, Nashville, TN 37205 or in Dickson at 504 E. College Street, Dickson, TN 37055. For those unable to make it to our offices, we can talk over the phone about most issues.
Experienced Nashville drug crime defense lawyer in your corner
If you or a loved one is facing drug charges in Nashville, it's vital to act swiftly and secure experienced legal representation. At Waynick Law, our dedicated team is ready to provide the aggressive defense and comprehensive support you need to protect your rights and your future. Don't navigate this challenging time alone—contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward building a strong defense and fighting back against charges or allegations. To schedule a meeting with a dedicated criminal defense attorney, simply call our offices or fill out our contact form.