Tennessee Criminal Lawyer Blog

Tennessee drug attorneys focus on the intricate procedures and heavy burdens that the state must prove to vigorously defend against drug charges. Whenever an individual is cited with an offense involving klonopin, it is important to contact a Tennessee drug lawyer so that the Tennessee lawyer can explore all avenues to optimize one’s legal defense.

Klonopin (clonazepam) is a popular drug that is prescribed in East Tennessee. Clonazepam is primarily used to treat seizures and panic disorders within the medical community. Klonopin has a chemical structure similar to valium and xanax. All three drugs are from the class of drugs called the benzodiazepines. Klonopin has a much longer effect compared to both valium and xanax, which increases its recreational popularity.

Klonopin has heavy withdrawal complications which is why it must be medically prescribed. Convulsions, hallucinations, behavioral disorders, tremors, and abdominal and muscle cramps are known to occur following abrupt discontinuance of someone dependant upon clonazepam. These severe withdrawal symptoms encourage dependant behavior for illegal users.

Unless you have a prescription issued by a licensed physician, it is illegal in Tennessee to knowingly:

• Manufacture klonopin;
• Deliver klonopin;
• Sell klonopin; or
• Possess klonopin with intent to manufacture, deliver or sell klonopin.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-417

Klonopin is considered to be a Schedule IV controlled substance under Tennessee law. The commissioner of mental health and developmental disabilities, upon the agreement of the commissioner of health, shall place a substance in Schedule IV upon finding that:

• The substance has a low potential for abuse relative to substances in Schedule III;
• The substance has currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States; and
• Abuse of the substance may lead to limited physical dependence or psychological dependence relative to the substances in Schedule III. Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-411 (2007).

If you are charged with possession, delivery, manufacture, or selling klonopin, it is important that you find an experienced Tennessee criminal attorney to protect your rights. Our Tennessee Criminal Attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation of your case and actively pursue the best possible resolution for you.