We handle all types of drug possession cases, including:
- Simple possession of weed, THC, or other controlled substances
- Unlawful possession of prescription drugs (e.g., Adderall, Xanax, Oxycodone)
- Possession with intent to distribute
- Manufacturing or delivering controlled substances
- Drug paraphernalia charges
- Hemp-derived cannabinoid, THCa, and total-THC cases
- Synthetic cannabinoid and THCp cases
- Felony vs. misdemeanor charges and escalating penalties
We work relentlessly to secure dismissals, reduce charges, or obtain probationary outcomes when possible.
Tennessee Cannabis & Hemp Law Overview
Marijuana remains illegal for recreational use in Tennessee. Hemp-derived cannabinoid products may be legal, but Tennessee significantly changed how these products are regulated in 2026.
Under Tennessee's current hemp law, products subject to the new regulatory framework generally cannot exceed 0.3% total THC on a dry-weight basis. Total THC includes both Delta-9 THC and THCa using a statutory conversion formula. Tennessee also prohibits products containing THCp or synthetic cannabinoids.
These distinctions can be important in a criminal case because a product marketed as hemp, THCa, or another cannabinoid is not necessarily legal simply because it was purchased from a store. The product's composition, THC concentration, testing, and circumstances of possession can all matter.
Consequences of a Conviction
The potential penalties depend heavily on the substance, amount, charge, prior record, and whether prosecutors allege simple possession or conduct such as manufacture, delivery, sale, or possession with intent.
- Simple possession: Generally prosecuted as a misdemeanor, although prior convictions and other circumstances can affect the potential consequences.
- Felony drug charges: Manufacturing, delivering, selling, or possessing controlled substances with intent can result in felony charges carrying substantial prison time and fines.
- Criminal record: A conviction can create longer-term consequences for employment, education, housing, professional licenses, and other opportunities.
How Michael & Associates Defends You
Some firms take on as many clients as possible and encourage quick plea deals so they can keep churning cases. That’s not how Michael & Associates operates. We limit the number of cases we accept, ensuring that we always have the time to make you our priority. Our No. 1 goal is to secure the best possible outcome for every client.
And while your attorney will live and work in Nashville, giving them firsthand familiarity with the local courts and procedures, they'll have the full support of our entire U.S. team, which includes three attorneys certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and two attorneys who have completed advanced forensic training through the American Chemical Society’s Chemistry and the Law Division (ACS-CHAL), strengthening our ability to scrutinize blood, breath, and other forensic evidence.
When you hire Michael & Associates, we charge a flat rate based on the complexity of your case, which we will disclose during your free consultation. That fee includes:
- Immediate case review and investigation
- Scrutiny of arrest procedures and evidence handling
- Challenges to search and seizure legality
- Identification of mishandling of evidence or procedural errors
- Defense strategies tailored to your specific circumstances
- Aggressive negotiation with prosecutors for reduced charges or probation
- Trial-ready defense: We're prepped and ready to take your case to trial when needed — no bluffing, just fearless advocacy
- We treat you like family, not a case number
Nashville-Focused, Results-Driven
Our focus on Nashville, Davidson County, and Middle Tennessee means we understand local courts, prosecutors, and judges, giving you an edge in negotiation and defense.
Last updated in September 2026 to reflect changes in Tennessee drug laws.
