Tennessee Criminal Lawyer Blog

Tennessee drug and narcotic defense attorneys have experience working with individuals who have been charged with drug offenses in the East Tennessee area, including those charged with drug possession, selling drugs, drug trafficking, or illegally obtaining prescription drugs. Our criminal defense attorneys know that any type of drug offense is taken seriously, especially if the offense occurred on or near school grounds.

It is important to realize that not all drug offenses are created equally under Tennessee law. If the offender violates TCA § 39-17-417 within 1,000 feet of a school zone, then the punishment will be enhanced upon a conviction. Tennessee lawmakers want to provide young people a positive learning environment without the distractions and dangers that are incident to the occurrence of illegal drug activities. Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-432 (a) (2008)

According to Tennessee law, a violation of § 39-17-417, or a conspiracy to violate the section, that occurs on the grounds or facilities of any school or within one thousand feet (1,000') of the real property that comprises a public or private elementary school, middle school, secondary school, preschool, child care agency, or public library, recreational center or park shall be punished one (1) classification higher than is provided in § 39-17-417(b)-(i) for such violation. Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-432 (b)(1) (2008)

Besides longer incarceration times, the maximum fines are stiff as well. A person convicted of violating the drug free school zone statute shall be subject to the following:

• Upon conviction of a Class E felony, a fine of not more than ten thousand dollars ($10,000);
• Upon conviction of a Class D felony, a fine of not more than twenty thousand dollars ($20,000);
• Upon conviction of a Class C felony, a fine of not more than forty thousand dollars ($40,000);
• Upon conviction of a Class B felony, a fine of not more than sixty thousand dollars ($60,000); and
• Upon conviction of a Class A felony, a fine of not more than one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000). Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-432 (b)(2) (2008)

If you or a loved one has been charged with a drug offense in the East Tennessee area, contact a Tennessee narcotic defense attorney. Our lawyers handle these types of cases in Knoxville, Sevierville, Newport, Morristown, Maryville, Loudon, and Gatlinburg. All initial consultations are free.