What is the maximum sentence for drug possession in Tennessee?

Under Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-418 (Class A Misdemeanor), Tennessee drug possession carries a maximum sentence of 11 months 29 days and a maximum fine of $2,500.

Does Tennessee have a mandatory minimum for drug possession?

Tennessee does not impose a blanket mandatory minimum for simple drug possession. Specific charges or enhancements may carry their own minimums.

What factors enhance a drug possession charge in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, drug possession penalties can be enhanced by: Third or subsequent offense within 7 years (Class E Felony under § 39-17-418(e)).

Tennessee Drug Possession Law

Tennessee Drug Possession Defense

What you're facing under Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-418, how the penalties scale, and the questions your attorney needs to answer, specific to Tennessee (TN) law.

Offense Class

Class A Misdemeanor

Maximum Penalty

11 months 29 days

Maximum Fine

$2,500

Penalty Range in Tennessee

StatuteTenn. Code Ann. § 39-17-418 — Simple Possession or Casual Exchange of Controlled Substance

Minimum Penalty

Maximum Penalty11 months 29 days

Maximum Fine$2,500

Charge Enhancements

These factors can elevate the charge or penalty in Tennessee:

Third or subsequent offense within 7 years (Class E Felony under § 39-17-418(e))

Tennessee-Specific Detail

Simple possession is a Class A Misdemeanor for first and second offenses. Third offense within 7 years becomes a Class E Felony.

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Important: This page provides legal INFORMATION about Tennessee drug possession law as of the date of publication. Laws change frequently. This is not legal advice. The analysis draws on methods developed by defense attorneys, applied to public data. Your attorney remains the final authority on defense direction.