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Drug Crimes Highly Respected by Our Peers, as Well as Our Community

Drug Crime Attorney in Clarksville, TN

Tennessee Drug Laws and Penalties

One of the first questions that those who come to see us here at Runyon and Runyon following a drug arrest in Clarksville is what sort of penalties could they be facing if convicted. Unfortunately, there is not a simple “one size fits all” answer to that question. If you are arrested for drug possession, the charges and penalties that you may face depend largely on the type of substance you were allegedly found with.

Under Tennessee Code § 39-17-418, a first-time simple drug possession charge is classified as a Class A misdemeanor charge. In Tennessee, a Class A misdemeanor is punishable by a $2,500 fine and 12 months in jail.

The law firm of Runyon & Runyon, however, can help. Having been a former police officer and now as a trained lawyer, Mr. Runyon, more than most lawyers, is very familiar with both the building and breaking down of criminal law cases. The firm provides its drug charge defense clients with a uniquely qualified criminal defense practice led by a former narcotics police officer: Frank J. Runyon.

Contact the Clarksville drug crimes attorneys at Runyon & Runyon by calling (931) 805-4445 or contacting us online! 

Tennessee Drug Schedules

Under Tennessee law, classifications are assigned by the potential for addiction as well as whether or not a substance has applications in the medical field. These schedules (as shared by Discovery Place) are as follows:

  • Schedule I: Drugs with the highest risk of addiction and no approved medical purpose. Examples include heroin and hallucinogens.
  • Schedule II: Drugs with a relatively high risk of abuse and addiction, yet have been approved for certain medical uses. Examples include narcotics, cocaine and methadone, as well as amphetamines and methamphetamines.
  • Schedule III: Drugs with a moderate risk of abuse. Examples include ketamine and depressants, along with anabolic steroids and synthetic testosterone.
  • Schedule IV: Drugs with numerous medical applications that also carry with them a slight risk of addiction. Examples include prescription benzodiazepines (sedatives).
  • Schedule V: Drugs with a very low risk of dependency.

Tennessee also recognizes a Schedule VI and VII, yet these categories are reserved exclusively for marijuana and butyl nitrate (poppers), respectively. Based on the way the state categorizes these substances, you can probably guess that the penalties for allegedly being in possession of a controlled substance are more severe if said drug is found in Schedule I or II.

Commonly Asked Questions

What should I do if I am arrested for a drug-related offense?

It is important to remain calm and avoid making any statements to law enforcement without your attorney present. Contact a qualified attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and understand your rights.

How can a drug crime conviction impact my future?

A drug crime conviction can have serious consequences, including a criminal record, difficulties in finding employment, limitations on housing options, and potential loss of professional licenses. It is crucial to address these charges properly.

Are there any diversion programs available for first-time offenders?

In Tennessee, first-time offenders may be eligible for diversion programs, which could allow them to avoid a conviction by completing certain requirements, such as community service or drug counseling. Consult with an attorney to explore your options.

What is the difference between drug possession and drug trafficking charges?

Drug possession typically refers to having a controlled substance for personal use, while drug trafficking involves the distribution or sale of drugs. Trafficking charges are generally more severe and carry harsher penalties.

Can I challenge the evidence against me in a drug crime case?

Yes, you can challenge the evidence if it was obtained unlawfully or if there are inconsistencies in the prosecution's case. An experienced attorney can help identify potential weaknesses in the evidence.

Why Choose Runyon and Runyon for Your Drug Crime Case

Clarksville drug lawyer, J. Runyon understands how to find weaknesses in the evidence gathered by the police and even in how they gathered it, correctly or incorrectly. Raising these kinds of Constitutional challenges can often lead to lesser charges with more appropriate punishment or even to the dismissal of the case in its entirety.

Types of Drug Crime Cases We Handle:

Specific Drug Possession Cases We Defend:

For more than a quarter of a century, "J." Runyon has been involved in the criminal justice system: 12 years as a police officer and the last 20 as a Clarksville criminal defense attorney. As a police officer from 1985 to 1997, J. Runyon moved from patrol to detective to police Sergeant to serving as the Sergeant over the Vice-Narcotics unit of the Special Operations Division of the Clarksville Police Department.

We are ready to defend your rights! Contact our Clarksville drug crimes attorneys by calling (931) 805-4445 or contacting us online! 

What Our Clients Are Saying

Past Clients Are Our Best Advertisements

At Runyon & Runyon, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    “Best Attorney in the State of Tennessee.”
    Jay Runyon at Runyon & Runyon is the best Attorney in the State of Tennessee. Yeah, Yeah I know that I can be a little biased. But, I have had legal representation from others. The experiences are night and day. Please if you’re looking for legal representation that is no nonsense, straightforward and easy to understand. Mr. Jay Runyon is the man.
    - Curtis
    “He went above and beyond for us”
    I truly appreciate all the effort and work Mr. Runyon did to help our family. He went above and beyond for us. He is caring and extremely knowledgeable. I will always recommend him.
    - Diane
    “Ray Runyon is the person you want on your side”
    If you are facing a divorce, Ray Runyon is the person you want on your side! He is absolutely phenomenal. His fees are fair, his communication is fantastic, he is extremely knowledgeable of the laws, and he really fights for what you want and will let you know if something that you are wanting isn't realistic. He is very straight forward and will tell you if your wants are something he feels he can accomplish. Very caring and will not nickel and dime you to death. Everyone in the office is extremely helpful and the absolute sweetest! I cannot recommend Ray (Runyon & Runyon) enough!
    - Shae
    “Go with the Runyons they will never steer you wrong.”
    This family firm has been nothing but amazing I can’t express enough how much this firm has helped me and my family. The best of the best from criminal to civil this team is amazing and I will never use any other firm but this one. I know you may want to compare based off rates however the rates for this team worth every penny. Go with the Runyons they will never steer you wrong.
    - Samuel
    “Very knowledgeable and easy to work with”

    Jay and his staff are very knowledgeable and easy to work with. Highly recommend him and his staff if you or someone you know needs a lawyer

    - Judy
    “Best lawyer I've ever seen or had”
    By far the best lawyer I've ever seen or had. GREAT!!
    - Jason
    “I went to him facing 3 felonies”
    Mr. J.Runyun helped me out so much I cant even explain, I went to him facing 3 felonies looking at 100% prison time if i was convicted. He got the charges dropped to two misdemeanors and 11 months probation, he’s affordable and honestly very good at his job trust his judgement and his advice and he can help 1000%.
    - John
    “Mr. J Runyon will fight his heart out defending you”
    Highly recommend this office to anyone looking for representation! 100% professionalism from everyone on staff, excellent communicators and Mr. J Runyon will fight his heart out defending you, can’t thank them enough!
    - Jason