When you’re facing criminal charges, you need a lawyer who will fight for your rights. The attorney you choose can determine whether to accept a plea bargain, take the case to trial, or appeal the conviction.
The first thing your lawyer will do is review the evidence against you and advise you on what to expect during your arraignment. This is your first court appearance before a Criminal Court judge.
DUI
Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most damaging and complicated criminal charges a person can face. These charges can have far-reaching effects on an individual’s life, including insurance rates and driver points.
Those who are arrested for DUI should hire an experienced Knoxville criminal defense attorney who understands how these laws work and can help them protect their rights. It’s important to get a lawyer who can challenge the police stop, analyze the scientific data, and fight to keep your record clean.
First-time offenders convicted for DUI in Tennessee face a minimum jail sentence of 48 hours and a maximum of 11 months and 29 days. They also have to pay fines ranging from $350 to $1500, have their license revoked for one year and may be required to install an ignition interlock device in their car.
Drug Trafficking
If you are accused of drug trafficking, your Knoxville criminal defense may need to be handled by an experienced attorney. A conviction for this type of offense can have life-changing ramifications, including jail time, a ruined reputation, and seized assets.
In the United States, there are a number of federal and state laws that govern the sale, transport, distribution, or possession of controlled substances. These laws include HS 11350, which prohibits the transportation of drugs across state lines and HS 11352, which prohibits the purchase or sale of a controlled substance from another person within a state.
The penalties for drug crimes vary based on the drug and quantity in question. For instance, drug trafficking for a Schedule I drug like LSD, heroin, or methamphetamine is a federal crime with harsh penalties. These punishments range from years in prison to decades, depending on the amount and the drug.
Assault
Assault is the intentional threat or contact with another person that places them in fear of harm. This can include the threat of a physical attack, but it does not have to involve actual bodily harm.
If you have been charged with assault, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side to fight the charges. A Knoxville lawyer can help you assess whether the charges are true, explore plea options, or represent you at trial.
Aggravated assault is a serious charge that involves the use of a dangerous weapon and the attempt to cause severe bodily harm. It is a Class B felony that can carry up to 25 years in prison if you are convicted.
Assault charges are often related to bar fights, workplace disputes, family feuds and more. The consequences of an assault conviction can be devastating. It can have a long-lasting impact on your life, relationships, job and housing qualifications.
Drug Possession
If you have been arrested for drug possession, you will need to get in touch with an experienced Knoxville criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Even a simple possession charge can carry severe penalties and affect your future.
A conviction of simple possession will result in a conviction on your permanent record, which can prevent you from obtaining student loans, getting a job or housing, and can lead to professional licensing and other issues. If you are charged with drug trafficking, you could face a felony charge that will also be on your permanent record.
Defending drug charges requires a knowledge of state and federal laws and the ability to identify and collect evidence in your favor. An experienced attorney can work with the prosecution to negotiate a favorable outcome in your case. They can also fight to have the drugs that were seized suppressed or excluded from the trial. In addition, they can provide you with guidance on your rights and help you understand the process.