Drug Possession Attorney
A drug possession charge can range from a routine misdemeanor to a felony with mandatory prison time, depending on the substance, the amount, and the person’s prior record. At DeVore Law, PLLC, drug possession charges are handled exclusively by Devin S. DeVore, who represents clients throughout Knoxville and East Tennessee.
Because Tennessee’s drug schedules and enhancement rules differ in important ways from federal law, matching the right defense to the specific substance and charge is essential from the start.
Drug Possession in Tennessee — What You Need to Know
It is an offense to knowingly possess or casually exchange a controlled substance without a valid prescription, and it is a separate offense to distribute a small amount of marijuana — up to half an ounce. A first-time simple possession or casual exchange charge is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and fines up to $2,500.
Certain substances and circumstances carry enhanced penalties. Any amount of methamphetamine carries a mandatory minimum of 30 days, served in full. A casual exchange to a minor by an adult at least two years older, knowing the recipient is a minor, is charged as a felony. A charge involving heroin becomes a Class E felony where the person already has two or more prior convictions under the statute.
Tennessee’s drug schedules also differ from federal schedules in some respects — marijuana and synthetic marijuana products are Schedule 6 substances under Tennessee law, rather than Schedule 1 as under federal law.
How DeVore Law, PLLC Can Help
The Drug Possession Case Timeline
Here is how a typical case moves through the system:
How Possession Charges Escalate
Simple Possession
A first-time offense is a Class A misdemeanor, carrying up to 11 months and 29 days in jail.
Methamphetamine Enhancement
Any amount carries a mandatory minimum 30-day sentence served in full, regardless of other factors.
Felony Enhancement
Repeat convictions involving certain substances, or exchange to a minor, can elevate the charge to a felony.
Common Areas of Focus
The Search
Whether the stop and search that led to discovery of the substance were lawful is often the strongest point of challenge.
Constructive Possession
Where a substance is found in a shared space or vehicle, the state must still prove the specific person knew about and controlled it.
Lab Testing and Chain of Custody
The substance must be properly tested and its custody documented from seizure through trial.
Diversion Eligibility
Many first-time possession charges qualify for judicial diversion, avoiding a permanent conviction.
What to Expect — The Defense Process
While each case differs, most Knoxville drug possession cases follow these general stages:
01
Case Review
We review the stop, search, and lab reports to identify weaknesses in the state’s case.
02
Motion Practice
We file motions to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful search or seizure.
03
Diversion or Negotiation
We pursue diversion for eligible clients or negotiate the most favorable resolution available.
04
Resolution
We finalize the case through dismissal, diversion, plea, or trial.
Why Work With Devin DeVore for Your Drug Possession Case
Drug possession defense at DeVore Law, PLLC is not delegated between attorneys. Devin DeVore personally handles every case, offering:
Direct access to your attorney
Personal handling of every case, from arraignment through trial
Membership in the Tennessee and Knoxville Bar Associations
Familiarity with local courts and diversion programs
Straightforward advice focused on protecting your record
His approach combines direct courtroom experience with practical, realistic guidance for every client.
Speak With a Knoxville Drug Possession Attorney
If you’ve been charged with drug possession, Devin DeVore can review the stop, the search, and the charge against you.
Contact DeVore Law, PLLC to schedule a consultation.