Murfreesboro Drug Crime Attorney

Tennessee Criminal Defense

If you have been arrested or are under investigation by law enforcement for a drug crime, it is essential that you take swift action to learn more about where you stand and your legal options. That action should start by consulting with a skilled Murfreesboro drug crime attorney such as Attorney Michael Auffinger at the Law Office of Michael Auffinger.

Getting a strong and dedicated criminal defense lawyer in Murfreesboro, TN, is the key to creating positive and effective legal strategies that can have a tremendous impact on your case. While you may be facing potential jail time, heavy fines, and a lengthy probation, a conviction will also leave you with a permanent criminal record accessible by future employers, landlords, financial institutions, and more. That record can have long-term collateral consequences that are often overlooked but are as momentous as criminal penalties. As a Murfreesboro drug crime lawyer, Michael Auffinger can help you understand how the laws apply to your case, what your options may be, and can ensure that your legal rights are protected as he builds a defense strategy on your behalf. While prosecutors work to prove their case against you, you can rely on him to fight back with fierce advocacy.

Accused of a drug crime in Tennessee? Schedule a consultation with the Law Office of Michael Auffinger at (615) 258-6575.

Drug Crimes in Tennessee

The state of Tennessee does not take drug crimes lightly, especially those involving sales or distribution. While some drug crimes may be charged as misdemeanors, the majority are charged as more serious felonies. How crimes are charged will depend on various factors, such as what type of drug activity you were engaged in, the type and volume of drugs allegedly involved, and your criminal history, if any. These factors also come into play when a decision is made by the court regarding possible penalties in a conviction.

Drug crimes in Tennessee include:

• Simple possession for one’s own personal use. This generally involves small quantities and is charged as a misdemeanor.
• Possession with an intent to sell. The amount found and other facts of your arrest indicate sales and/or distribution are involved. This is a felony charge based on the quantity.
• Actual sales of a controlled substance. This means you were found selling the drug and is charged as a felony.
• Drug cultivation or manufacturing. This consists of marijuana grow farms as well as labs used to manufacture such drugs as methamphetamine. These are felonies.
• Drug trafficking. This generally involves large-scale operations where drugs are imported, transported, and distributed, and are charged as felonies.

Drug crimes include all controlled substances listed under Tennessee and federal law. These substances include such drugs as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, LSD, methamphetamine, and more. They also include prescription medicines obtained fraudulently and used, sold, or distributed, such as OxyContin, Vicodin, Valium, Adderall, Fentanyl, and more.

Penalties for Drug Crimes in Tennessee

Simple possession, charged as a misdemeanor carries up to a year in jail and fines of up to $2,500. Where quantities exceed half an ounce or you are facing a second offense, you may be charged with a felony. Felony drug offenses can range from a Class E, which is the least serious, up to a Class A, which is the most serious. For example, drug trafficking is generally charged at the highest level. Factors that can influence charges include if minors were affected or involved, if weapons were involved, the total quantity of drugs found, and other circumstances of the arrest.

Felony penalties break down per the following:

• Class A: 15 to 25 years in prison
• Class B: Eight to 12 years in prison
• Class C: Three to six years in prison
• Class D: Two to four years in prison
• Class E: One to two years in prison

You may be subject to other penalties as well, such as forfeiture of property, loss of your driver’s license, heavy fines, and community service.

Turn to a Proven Murfreesboro Drug Crime Lawyer

Whether you are facing a drug misdemeanor charge at the state level or a federal felony charge, you can depend on the dedication and fighting spirit you will find in Attorney Michael Auffinger. He is known for his thorough investigation, attention to detail, aggressive stance in the courtroom, and his tireless dedication to his clients. Find out more about how he can help you with your Murfreesboro drug crime defense by discussing the specifics of your case with him today.

Contact the Law Office of Michael Auffinger at (615) 258-6575 to set up your consultation with our drug crimes lawyer today.