Drug Crimes

KNOXVILLE DRUG CRIME LAWYERS

Discreet & Dedicated Defense

Facing drug-related charges can be difficult and embarrassing, but the defense team at Eldridge & Cravens is here to help you – not judge you. We will provide effective legal guidance and representation, drawing on our years of experience successfully defending clients against drug charges.

Types of drug charges we address

Different drug charges each bring unique challenges and legal implications. Eldridge & Cravens attorneys have successfully defended clients facing various drug-related charges, including:

  • Drug possession, the unlawful possession of controlled substances, such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, prescription drugs, or other illegal drugs. The severity of the offense depends on factors like type and quantity of the substance.
  • Prescription drug fraud, such as forging prescriptions or obtaining them through deceit can lead to criminal charges.
  • Drug trafficking, involving distributing, selling, or transporting controlled substances.
  • Manufacturing and cultivation, including activities like growing marijuana or producing methamphetamine. Convictions may result in substantial prison time.
  • Drug paraphernalia, such as possession of drug paraphernalia like pipes, syringes, or scales can lead to separate charges, even if there is no actual possession of drugs.
  • Possession with intent to distribute if you have a significant quantity of drugs and items like scales or baggies.

Our team is here for your defense.

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Potential penalties for drug crimes in Tennessee

The penalties for drug crimes in Tennessee vary depending on the type of offense, the quantity of drugs involved, and any prior criminal history. Some of the potential consequences you may face include:

  • Fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
  • Probation, which comes with strict conditions, including mandatory drug testing.
  • Jail or prison time, with length of sentence depending on specifics of your case.
  • Criminal record, which could affect your future opportunities in terms of employment, housing, and more.
  • Suspension of driver’s license.
  • Federal charges. In some instances, drug crimes may be prosecuted at the federal level, leading to even more severe penalties.
  • Enhanced penalties if the crimes were committed near a school or park; involve minors; or if you have a prior criminal history.

Developing an effective defense

Every drug offense case is unique, so our team will work tirelessly to explore all available defenses to build a strong case.

We will delve into the details of your arrest or the accusations against you to determine if your rights were violated and to examine potential law enforcement errors.

  • Illegal search and seizure. If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights during a search and seizure, evidence obtained in that manner may be suppressed, weakening the prosecution’s case.
  • Lack of possession. Prosecution must prove you had actual possession or control over the drugs. If this cannot be established, we may be able to challenge the charges.
  • Medical necessity. Individuals may sometimes use controlled substances for medical purposes. We can help demonstrate that your use was medically necessary and lawful.
  • Entrapment. If you can show that law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you wouldn’t have otherwise committed, entrapment may be a valid defense.
  • Chain of custody issues, including thoroughly examining the handling and storage of evidence to ensure its integrity throughout the legal process.
  • Substantive defenses. Other substantive defenses may be available depending on the circumstances of your case.

You deserve discreet & professional defense.