Knoxville Drug Possession Lawyer

Arrested for drug possession? Don't fight your charges alone!

For possession of drugs in this state, the type of drug has no bearing on the penalties. Tennessee lawmakers have kept it simple. The first offense for possession of any drug is charged as a Class A misdemeanor, and the second or subsequent offense is charged as a Class E felony. The exception is marijuana, which is not charged as a felony until the third possession offense.

If you have been arrested for drug possession, you need the services of a drug possession attorney in Knoxville. With Robert R. Kurtz, Attorney at Law, you will get big firm service and resources with the personal attention of a boutique law firm, and you will be working directly with your attorney, rather than being shuffled off to an assistant or paralegal.

Attorney Kurtz has helped many clients facing criminal charges in both state and federal courts. He has been practicing criminal defense since 1998 for 24 years.

Mr. Kurtz has a 10.0 Superb Avvo Rating and a long list of successful case results. You can rest assured that his primary goal is defending your rights and obtaining the best possible outcome in your case.

Overview of the Penalties for Drug Possession in Tennessee

Although controlled substances are classified into seven different schedules in decreasing order of dangerousness, the penalties for possession are the same from one drug to the next. The exception is possession of marijuana, which is charged as a felony for third and subsequent offenses, while possession of other drugs is charged as a felony for a second offense. For a first offense of simple possession of drugs, penalties include up to one year in jail and $2,500 in fines.

For second offense Class E felony possession of drugs (except marijuana), potential penalties are one to six years in prison and up to $3,000 in fines. If you are charged with possession and this is your first offense, it may not seem like a serious problem. However, conviction of a drug crime will remain on your record and impact your future prospects. You will also face harsher penalties for a second offense. You need a Knoxville criminal lawyer to help you fight the charges.

What to Expect in Knox County Drug Proceedings With Our Drug Possession Attorneys in Knoxville

If you are arrested for drug possession in Knox County, your initial court dates are generally held at the City-County Building in downtown Knoxville. Typically, your first appearance is an arraignment, where the charges are formally read and bail is considered. The courts here follow procedural rules specific to Tennessee, including observing local filing deadlines and evidence discovery requirements. The representation of our drug possession attorneys in Knoxville begins immediately after your arrest, providing you with critical advice about what to say—and what not to say—to law enforcement or prosecutors. This guidance is designed to safeguard your rights, help preserve vital defenses, and keep you from making statements that could be used against you during your case. As your case progresses, we walk you through each phase, from pretrial hearings to courtroom negotiations and, if necessary, trial—making sure you always understand what each step means within the context of Knox County’s local procedures.

Having served as a drug possession attorney in Knoxville for many years, I understand the priorities of the Knox County District Attorney’s Office and the strategies frequently employed by local prosecutors. This perspective is crucial, as it helps me negotiate favorable outcomes or challenge the prosecution’s case when appropriate. We ensure you are fully informed at every stage, that all deadlines are met, and that you are prepared for everything from a suppression motion to advocating for entry into diversion or rehabilitation programs in Knox County. Above all, we are committed to empowering you to make informed decisions with candid advice and practical guidance rooted in my deep knowledge of local courts and the Knoxville legal community.

Call us at (865) 896-9779 and let us explain the legal options you have for your drug possession case. We're here for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens if I am Charged With Drug Possession While Visiting Knoxville?

If you are not a resident but are charged with drug possession while visiting Knoxville or Knox County, your case will progress through the same court system as residents. In some instances, routine matters can be handled by your drug possession attorney in Knox County without requiring you to be present at every hearing, though for crucial events like a trial, your appearance is generally required. Having a local drug possession lawyer in Knoxville makes it easier to navigate this process efficiently, avoid unnecessary travel, and ensure you meet all obligations under Tennessee law. I keep clients informed about required appearances and work to simplify the process for out-of-town or out-of-state defendants.

Can a First-Time Offender in Knox County Avoid Jail Time for Drug Possession?

For many first-time offenders facing drug possession charges in Knox County, alternatives to jail may be available depending on the details of your case and prior history. Judicial diversion, probation, or deferred judgments are sometimes available through negotiations with the Knox County District Attorney’s Office or with court approval. These options often focus on rehabilitation, education, or community service requirements instead of incarceration. However, these alternatives are not guaranteed. As a drug possession attorney in Knoxville and Knox County, I assess your eligibility and advocate for every available option, ensuring you fully understand what is required should one of these alternatives be granted by the court.

How Does a Drug Possession Conviction Affect My Record in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, a conviction for drug possession results in a permanent criminal record accessible by employers, educational institutions, and licensing agencies. This record can limit your career, housing, and professional opportunities for years to come. Some individuals may become eligible for expungement or record clearance following completion of certain conditions, but only under specific circumstances. As a drug possession attorney in Knoxville, I help clients determine eligibility for expungement, guide them through the application process, and advise them on steps to reduce collateral consequences. Being proactive about your legal options ensures you are best positioned to mitigate the impact of a conviction in Knox County.

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