Mississippi And Tennessee Drug Charges

In this article, you can learn about:

• The timeline of a drug charge in Mississippi and Tennessee.
• How working with an attorney can help mitigate the negative effects of a drug charge.
• The severe consequences of an out-of-state drug charge.

Common Drug Charges In Mississippi And Tennessee

 The majority of my clients reach out to me after being charged with possession of drug paraphernalia. I also often work with people who have been charged with possession of a controlled substance. (Typically, these cases are marijuana-related.)

In Mississippi and Tennessee, possession of paraphernalia is always charged as a misdemeanor. Charges for possession of a controlled substance, on the other hand, vary greatly from case to case. The most crucial factors that impact the way drug possession is charged are the quantity and the type of narcotic present at an arrest.

What Are Potential Sentencing Penalties For Misdemeanor And Felony Drug Convictions In Mississippi And Tennessee?

Tennessee and Mississippi have similar but different sentencing penalties for drug convictions.

In Mississippi:

First-time offenders may be able to negotiate a non-adjudication agreement. Non-adjudication agreements allow participants to complete probation and other requirements to dismiss their charges.

For misdemeanors, the probationary period can last from six to twelve months. For felony-level offenses, non-adjudication probation can last for up to five years.

In Tennessee:

This state offers pre-trial intervention (sometimes referred to as pre-trial diversion).

The pre-trial intervention program is similar to non-adjudication. It allows participants to remain on probation for six months to five years (depending on the nature of their charge). After which, their charges will be dismissed. To successfully complete pre-trial intervention, participants will attend “drug court” and submit to regular drug testing.

In both states:

If you choose to plead guilty to your drug charges, you could face anywhere from six months to ten years of time served.

The penalties for each drug charge vary greatly depending on many factors – including the amount and type of drug in the charge.

Working with a skilled drug crimes attorney is the best way to ensure that you can find the best outcome possible for your case. From negotiating with prosecutors to creating a strategic defense plan, your attorney will work to ensure that you receive fair treatment under the law.

How Are Out-Of-State Drug Charges Are Handled In Mississippi And Tennessee?

Drug charges are prosecuted and penalties are served under the state where the offense occurs. This means that if an out-of-state resident is charged with a drug offense in Mississippi, the entire case will be handled under Mississippi law.

If drug charges occur in more than one state, the matter becomes severe. If a drug charge involves crossing state lines, it becomes a federal crime. This means that the case will become a concern of the federal government. It will be handled by the DEA and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney General’s office.

What’s more, you may be charged in Tennessee, then in Mississippi, and again in federal court for the same offense.

If you’re concerned about drug charges between multiple states, it’s in your best interest to contact an attorney immediately. These crimes can come with life-altering penalties, and swift action is required to avoid the worst consequences.

For more information on Drug Charges In Mississippi & Tennessee, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (662) 510-8044 today.