Will I Go to Jail for Carrying Marijuana in Tennessee?

 Posted on July 14, 2025 in Drug Crimes

Marijuana usage is strictly criminalized in Tennessee. If you have been accused of a crime involving marijuana, even just possession, it is in your best interests to seek out legal representation as soon as possible. With the help of a Knox County, TN drug crime defense attorney, you can fight the charges against you in court.

We know just how damaging a conviction for a drug crime can be, impacting your future job prospects and relationships. Our firm can put up an aggressive defense on your behalf, looking for ways to get a marijuana-related charge reduced or dismissed.

The Penalties for Marijuana Possession

While certain cannabis products are permitted in Tennessee with a valid prescription, possessing marijuana bud is a crime. The penalties for possession vary depending on the amount of the drug. However, first offenders do not get off lightly. If you are accused of carrying even a half ounce or less of marijuana, you could be charged with a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum of a year in jail.

Aside from the possibility of jail time, a conviction of marijuana possession will also incur heavy fines and a criminal record. At Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney, we can help you strategize around the charges against you as we work toward an ideal outcome.

How Is Marijuana Distribution Prosecuted in Tennessee?

While marijuana possession can carry some harsh penalties, the punishments for distribution are even greater. If you are accused of possessing more than half an ounce of marijuana with the intent to sell or distribute it, you could face felony charges. At the very least, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute is a Class E felony that can carry up to six years in prison.

Cultivating marijuana plants, regardless of whether you intended to distribute them, is also a felony offense in Tennessee. If you have been charged with a felony, you should reach out to a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Defenses Against Marijuana Charges in Tennessee

When your case goes to court, the prosecution has to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This means that the prosecutor has to show that you actually possessed the marijuana. If the prosecution cannot prove it belonged to you, you may be able to cite that as a defense. Similarly, if you face distribution charges, the prosecution must prove that you intended to give away the drugs with hard evidence.

Police must also follow certain laws when carrying out traffic stops and arrests. For instance, if you were pulled over without reasonable suspicion that a crime was committed, your rights may have been violated. At Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney, we can argue to have illegally seized evidence removed from court.

Contact a Blount County, TN Criminal Defense Lawyer

Have you been charged with marijuana possession or distribution? If so, contact a Knox County, TN drug crime defense attorney today. At Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney, we can fight for your rights, looking for ways to reduce or eliminate a jail sentence. Call us at 865-281-1000 for a free consultation.