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Do Authorities Suspect You of Cocaine-Related Crimes?

On Behalf of Law Offices of Thomas Maynard April 26, 2019

When caught in difficult situations, people choose to handle them in different ways. Some may begin to panic while others remain calm. While it is typically better to remain calm, it can be difficult to do so when faced with criminal charges.

If Tennessee authorities have charged you in relation to cocaine crimes, you may start to feel as if your life is over. However, before your mind goes down such a fatalistic path, you may want to remember that you have rights and legal options that could help you handle your case. One of your first steps may be to fully understand the charges that you face.

Possession or sale?

The types of charges brought against you can depend on the activities that the police suspect that you participated in. For instance, you may face possession charges if officers found cocaine on or around your person, or in your vehicle or residence. If you face possession charges, one of the following allegations may apply:

  • Class A misdemeanor for possession or casual exchange

  • Class E felony for two or more previous convictions for cocaine possession

  • Class C felony for less than .5 grams of cocaine

  • Class B felony for .5 grams or less but involving a death, commission of a crime or having a concealed deadly weapon

You could also face a felony charge if the casual exchange involved a minor two years younger than you, and you are an adult. When it comes to the sale of cocaine, the charges become more severe.

Charges for Selling Cocaine

If authorities suspect that you had involvement in cocaine distribution, you could face the following charges:

  • Class C felony and up to a $100,000 fine for less than .5 grams

  • Class B felony and up to a $100,000 fine for over .5 grams

  • Class B felony and up to a $200,000 fine for over 26 grams

  • Class A felony and up to a $500,000 fine for over 300 grams

  • Class A felony for sale to a minor or in a drug-free school zone

The exact allegations you face will play a significant role in your overall case. Therefore, you may benefit from gaining information on the charges and your legal options. Working with a Tennessee defense attorney may help you gain reliable information and assist you throughout your ordeal.