Tennessee Criminal Lawyer Blog

Every year, young people without criminal records go to Bonnaroo seeking a good time only to have their future prospects diminished because of a criminal citation or arrest. Once the person pleads guilty, the consequences can be devastating—from jail time and fines to academic disqualification and financial aid ineligibility.

The common criminal charges and their statutory penalties are as follows:

Simple Possession. A first time offense of simple possession of a controlled substance carries a sentence of no more than a year and a $2,500 fine. Simple possession in Tennessee typically applies when you have been busted with only a small amount of a controlled substance, such as marijuana or LSD.

Felony Drug Possession. Felony drug possession is a more serious crime and penalties vary depending on the type and amount of the controlled substance in your possession. For example, if you were found to possess between one-half ounce and ten pounds of marijuana, you could be charged with a Class E felony, which carries between a 1 and 6 year prison sentence and/or a $3,000 fine.

Drug Paraphernalia. Possession of drug paraphernalia is a Class A misdemeanor if the state can prove that you intended you use it to pack, store, contain or conceal a controlled substance. Under Tennessee law, "drug paraphernalia" means all equipment, products and materials of any kind that are used, or intended for use in storing, concealing, injecting, inhaling or otherwise introducing into the human body, a controlled substance.

Underage Consumption of Alcohol. Underage drinking in Tennessee carries with it relatively severe punishments. If you were under age 21 and you purchased, received, or had in your possession an alcoholic beverage in a public place, you could be facing up to a year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500. You will also be denied driving privileges if convicted.

Public Intoxication. You are facing fines and possibly a few months in jail if found guilty of this crime. An offense is committed if you were on the festival grounds or at a place of business or other public place and, while under the influence of an intoxicating substance, endangered yourself or others, destroyed property, or were simply annoying to the people around you.

If you have been charged with any of the above-listed crimes or any other crime while at Bonnaroo or while leaving the festival, the experienced criminal defense attorneys at Baker Associates encourage you to call us at 866-853-2888. The consultation is free.