What Consequences Will Your Child Face for Drug Possession?

Possession of a drug is on the lower end of the severity scale regarding drug charges in Tennessee, coming in behind drug selling, trafficking and manufacturing. However, this does not mean that there are not consequences for the act, especially if your child is a minor.

The law and penalties are different for adults and minors of the same crime, so it is important to know what your child could be facing. If your child is facing drug possession charges, it can be scary for both you and your child. No matter how frightening, it can be beneficial to know the possible consequences beforehand.

Possible charges

If your child is facing a casual possession, or simple possession, charge, it means they were in possession of or casually exchanged .5 oz of a drug. Consequences for juveniles are typically heavily focused on rehabilitation, so there can be great variance in the charges that one may face. Possible penalties include:

• Drug counseling classes: This class is made to inform or re-inform individuals on the dangers and consequences of drugs and alcohol.

• Community service: Your child may need to complete a set number of hours of community service for their crimes.

• Probation: Some judges may set a probationary period, in which a juvenile cannot break the law again in the duration of said period or there will be further consequences.

• Misdemeanor: This is a strict form of punishment as it will go on the child’s record. In some cases, your child may receive a misdemeanor for their acts.

The consequences will likely vary case by case, so it may be beneficial to have legal counsel on your side. A minor in possession of drugs can have harsh consequences that will follow them throughout their life but knowing the possible consequences before sentencing can help to lessen the blow.