Drug Manufacturing

In Tennessee, drug manufacturing crimes cover a broad spectrum of actions and as a result, defending these criminal cases can be complex. A Nashville drug crime lawyer can assist people who have been charged with drug manufacturing by uncovering all of the facts and finding holes in the prosecution’s case. Attorney Bernie McEvoy understands the nuances of a drug manufacturing charge and can inform you of your options after an arrest. If you are facing charges for manufacturing a controlled substance such as meth in Davidson or Williamson County, Bernie McEvoy can provide legal guidance and defense representation for your case.

Tennessee laws regulate many activities concerning controlled substances. A controlled substance is a drug, substance, or immediate precursor that has been identified and classified under one of seven schedules. Controlled substances include illegal street drugs, some commonly prescribed medications, and other materials that are specifically named in the statutes. A few examples are methamphetamine, crack cocaine, oxycodone, fentanyl, and marijuana.

In Tennessee, individuals are prohibited from manufacturing a controlled substance. Manufacturing is broadly defined under the law, and includes acts such as producing, preparing, propagating, compounding, converting, and processing a controlled substance. Adding cutting agents to cocaine or heroin, for example, may constitute drug manufacturing under Tennessee law. In addition, the planting, cultivating, growing, or harvesting of a controlled substance falls under the definition of drug manufacturing. Consequently, growing marijuana plants in Tennessee could result in a drug manufacturing charge. Finally, manufacturing also encompasses any packaging or repackaging of a controlled substance, as well as labeling or re-labeling of its container.

The expansive meaning of drug manufacturing under Tennessee law has led to a number of drug arrests and serious felony charges brought against defendants. There are important exceptions to the offense, however, that may result in a reduced or dismissed drug manufacturing charge. First, the crime is not meant to include the manufacturing of a controlled substance for personal consumption. An individual who prepares or compounds drugs solely for her own use and not for other people is not manufacturing drugs, although she may be violating other drug laws. Drug manufacturing also does not apply to some professionals who are processing controlled substances for a legitimate purpose. Examples may include a pharmacist administering or dispensing prescription drugs in the course of their professional practice, or a medical researcher compounding a controlled substance for chemical analysis.

Typically, drug manufacturing is a felony offense. The penalties follow the class of felony charged, which will depend on a number of factors. Details such as the type of controlled substance, the amount, whether a minor was involved in any way, the criminal history of the defendant, and other circumstances can play a role. Generally, the punishment for a conviction may include a jail sentence, large fine, and/or probation. Organizing a prepared defense strategy against the charges may have a significant impact on the outcome of a drug manufacturing case.

Possessing drugs with the intent to manufacture them is also a criminal offense in Tennessee. To prove its case, the prosecution often relies on evidence at the scene of the arrest or the defendant’s home, such as the amount of drugs in the defendant’s possession, equipment and solvents commonly associated with drug manufacturing, witness testimony, and other relevant circumstances. Similarly, the manufacture of an imitation controlled substance, and possession with intent to manufacture an imitation controlled substance are drug crimes in Tennessee. These offenses are typically Class E felonies, carrying the potential for incarceration and monetary fines for those who are convicted, along with the consequences of a convicted felon status.

Nashville attorney Bernie McEvoy has the experience to handle complex criminal cases including drug manufacturing, possession, and other felony charges. He can assist individuals who have been arrested in Franklin, Nashville, and other cities throughout Davidson and Williamson Counties. Contact the Law Office of Bernie McEvoy today and request a consultation to discuss your criminal matter. We are available by phone at (615) 255-9595 during business hours and (615) 804-8779 after hours and on weekends, and online.