Helping You Move Forward
Drug Charges
Chattanooga Drug Crime Lawyer
Experienced Defense Against Drug Charges in Hamilton, Bradley, Marion, Polk, & McMinn Counties
Tennessee has a reputation for having some of the country's toughest punishments for drug-related offenses. For example, those convicted of simple possession (the lowest drug charge in TN) could face one year in jail and fines up to $2,500. Repeat offenders, and anyone found guilty of selling or distributing could receive much harsher punishments, including multi-year sentences varying based on the amounts and types of drugs in question and fines into the hundreds of thousands (Tenn. Code Ann. §39-17-417). It's safe to say that Tennessee does not take drug crimes lightly.
Andrea Hayduk Law is here if you've been arrested for or charged with a drug crime. Charges do not always mean you will be convicted, and it is still possible to fight the charges, have them reduced, or negotiate your penalties. The prosecution started building its case as soon as you were arrested (and sometimes earlier), so contacting us as soon as possible is essential. Starting with our first meeting, we'll begin crafting your legal defense and work with you toward an optimal resolution to your case.
Are you facing a drug crime charge in Tennessee? Call Andrea Hayduk Law today at (423) 301-5050 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our drug crime attorney in Chattanooga!
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“Andrea is extremely intelligent, caring, and very knowledgeable...I finally have my peace of mind back.” - Former Client
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“If you want an attorney who takes a genuine interest in their client, then Andrea is the attorney for you.” - Steve
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“She managed to bring about an outcome that far surpassed anything I could have hoped for.” - Former Client
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“She took a genuine interest in my case and delivered a better result than I could have possibly imagined.” - Josh
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“Choosing Ms. Hayduk was the best choice I could have made... I can’t express the relief I’ve felt.” - Former Client
Why Hire Andrea Hayduk Law?
With 15+ years of experience practicing criminal defense law and as a board member of the Tennessee Innocence Project and the Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (TACDL), Attorney Hayduk has dedicated her career to helping the people of Tennessee fight drug, alcohol, and other criminal charges. You can trust that our firm knows what it takes to pursue the best possible outcome for your circumstances, whether that’s having your penalties reduced or charges dismissed altogether. As a boutique law firm dedicated to criminal defense, we will help you craft a creative and informed legal strategy based on the unique facts of your case, as well as any mitigating factors or evidence that the prosecution may use against you.
Common Drug Violations in Tennessee
Common drug violations include:
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Possession of paraphernalia
- Possession with intent to sell or distribute
- Drug trafficking
- Manufacturing or cultivating drugs
- Selling prescription medications without proper authorization
- Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol
- Providing illegal substances to minors
What are the Penalties for Drug Crimes in Tennessee?
Penalties for drug offenses vary depending on the nature of the offense but can often include jail time and significant fines. Common drug violation penalties include:
- Possession of a controlled substance in Tennessee is a felony punishable by incarceration and fines, depending on the amount and type of drug. Possession of less than one gram can result in up to 2 years in prison and a fine of $2,500, while possession of more than one gram can lead to 8-30 years in prison and fines up to $500,000.
- For those convicted of possession with intent to sell or distribute, sentences range from: 8-60 years in prison and fines from $15-$500 per count.
- Drug trafficking offenses may be charged as felonies with sentences ranging from 3-60 years in jail and fines up to $100,000.
- Manufacturing or cultivating drugs can also result in felony charges with sentences of 8-60 years and fines up to $200,000.
- Selling prescription medications without proper authorization is an even more serious offense that can lead to sentences of 8-30 years and fines of up to $200,000.
- Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is considered a Class A misdemeanor in Tennessee, with penalties including 11 months & 29 days in jail and/or a fine up to $2,500 for a first-time conviction.
- Providing illegal substances to minors is treated particularly seriously and can result in severe penalties, including up to 12 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.
It is essential for anyone accused of a drug crime to understand the potential consequences and know their rights. Consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney can help ensure defendants are fully aware of their legal options and the possible outcomes. An experienced lawyer may also be able to negotiate for lesser penalties or have charges dismissed entirely.
Start your defense with our Chattanooga drug crime lawyer today!
Contact Our Chattanooga Drug Crime Attorney Today
Whether you’re charged with a minor misdemeanor or something more serious like drug trafficking, proper legal representation protects your rights and interests. Andrea Hayduk Law will empower you through effective representation and personalized legal counsel at each stage of the legal process. It’s our goal to help you avoid the most severe and damaging outcomes for drug charges.
Contact Andrea Hayduk Law today to schedule a FREE consultation with our drug crime lawyer Chattanooga!