Can I avoid the 30-day mandatory jail sentence for meth possession in Tennessee?

Yes. Tennessee law allows a judge to let first-time defendants serve the 30 days through a certified drug or recovery court or licensed treatment program, with full credit toward the sentence.

What counts as possession with intent to sell methamphetamine in Tennessee?

Prosecutors look at the weight of the drug (0.5 grams or more is a Class B felony), how it is packaged, the presence of scales or large amounts of cash, and text messages or other evidence suggesting sales.

Can I go to drug court for meth charges in Davidson or Wilson County?

Both counties offer drug courts. Eligibility depends on your criminal history, the facts of the case, and the judge’s approval. Successful completion can satisfy mandatory jail time and may lead to reduced penalties.

Are meth felony convictions eligible for expungement in Tennessee?

Most felony meth convictions are not eligible for expungement under current Tennessee law. Some misdemeanor dispositions may be eligible, and dismissals can be expunged. Consult an attorney about your specific case.

Methamphetamine Defense

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Methamphetamine Defense Attorney in Nashville, Tennessee

Q: Will I lose my driver’s license for a meth charge?

If you are convicted of driving while possessing 5 grams or more of methamphetamine, Tennessee law imposes a five‑year license revocation and your vehicle may be forfeited.

Criminal Defense in Davidson and Wilson County

Facing methamphetamine charges in Tennessee can feel overwhelming. The state has carved out special laws and mandatory penalties that make meth cases tougher than many other drug crimes. As a defense lawyer serving Nashville–Davidson County and nearby Wilson County, I am here to help you understand the landscape, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome.

How Tennessee Classifies Methamphetamine (Schedule II)

Methamphetamine is listed as a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning lawmakers see it as having a high potential for abuse but limited accepted medical uses. In 2014 the legislature created T.C.A. § 39‑17‑434, a separate statute for meth offenses that imposes enhanced penalties and mandatory minimum sentences.

Types of Methamphetamine Charges in Tennessee

Simple Possession / Casual Exchange

Class A misdemeanor · 30‑day mandatory jail (served at 100 %) · $750 minimum fine for a first conviction. Courts may allow the 30 days to be served in a certified drug‑ or recovery‑court program with full credit.

Possession With Intent to Sell, Deliver, or Distribute

< 0.5 g: Class C felony, fine up to $100,000
≥ 0.5 g: Class B felony, fine up to $100,000
≥ 26 g: Class B felony, fine up to $200,000

Manufacturing Methamphetamine

Class B felony (8–30 years) and restitution for lab cleanup.

Promotion of Methamphetamine Manufacture

Class D felony · triggered by possessing more than 9 g of precursors or allowing property to be used for manufacturing. Possessing 15 g or more creates a presumption of intent (T.C.A. § 39‑17‑433).

Driving While in Possession of Methamphetamine

Having 5 g or more of meth while driving is a separate offense: first conviction is a Class B misdemeanor ($500 fine), second is a Class A misdemeanor ($1,000 fine), plus a five‑year license revocation and possible vehicle forfeiture (T.C.A. § 55‑50‑506).

Penalties for Methamphetamine Convictions in Nashville

Conviction	Mandatory Minimum Fine
First felony drug conviction	$2,000
Second felony drug conviction	$3,000
Third or subsequent felony drug conviction	$5,000

Tennessee statutes change frequently; always consult a qualified attorney about your specific situation.

Common Defense Strategies for Meth Charges

Illegal search & seizure: Challenging traffic stops, home searches, or defective warrants.
Actual vs. constructive possession: When drugs are found in a shared space, the State must prove knowing control.
Treatment alternatives: Using Davidson or Wilson County Drug Courts to satisfy mandatory time through structured recovery programs.

What to Do Immediately After a Meth Arrest

Stay silent: Invoke your right to remain silent and request a lawyer.
Call an attorney quickly: Early action helps preserve evidence and negotiate release conditions.
Follow bond terms: Comply with testing and check‑ins.
Gather helpful proof: Treatment records, character letters, phone logs, or receipts that counter the State’s theory.

Get Help from a Nashville Methamphetamine Defense Attorney

Every hour counts after an arrest. Get in touch today for a free, no‑pressure consultation. Let’s start building your defense and protecting your future.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Possibly. Judges may let first-time defendants serve the 30 days in a certified drug or recovery court or licensed treatment program, with full credit toward the sentence.

Prosecutors examine the weight (0.5 g or more triggers a Class B felony), packaging, presence of scales or large amounts of cash, and communications suggesting sales.

Both counties operate drug courts. Eligibility depends on your history, case facts, and judicial approval. Successful completion can satisfy mandatory jail time and reduce penalties.

If convicted of driving while possessing 5 g or more of methamphetamine, Tennessee law imposes a five‑year license revocation, and your vehicle may be forfeited.

Most felony meth convictions are not expungeable under current law. Some misdemeanor dispositions and dismissals may be; consult an attorney about your case.