What is a Class E Felony in TN?
In the state of Tennessee, crimes are categorized into different levels of severity, with more serious offenses falling under felony charges. Class E felonies are the least severe type of felony in Tennessee, with punishments generally being more lenient than those for higher-level felonies.
What are the Criteria for a Class E Felony?
In Tennessee, a Class E felony is typically considered to be a non-violent offense that carries a sentence of 1-6 years in prison, as well as a possible fine of up to $5,000. Some common examples of Class E felonies in Tennessee include:
• Forgery: The intentional and fraudulent creation or alteration of a written instrument, such as a check or a document, with the intention of deceiving another person.
• Identity Theft: The unauthorized use or possession of another person’s identifying information, such as their social security number or driver’s license number, with the intention of deceiving or defrauding another person.
• Embezzlement: The unauthorized taking or use of someone else’s property, including money or valuables, with the intention of deceiving or defrauding that person.
• Drug Possession: Possessing controlled substances, such as opioids or methamphetamine, without a valid prescription or with the intention of distributing them.
Sentencing for Class E Felonies in TN
The sentencing guidelines for Class E felonies in Tennessee are as follows:
| Sentence Length | Fine Amount |
|---|---|
| 1 year in prison | up to $5,000 |
| 2 years in prison | up to $5,000 |
| 3 years in prison | up to $5,000 |
| 4 years in prison | up to $5,000 |
| 5 years in prison | up to $5,000 |
| 6 years in prison | up to $5,000 |
It’s important to note that these are the standard sentencing guidelines for Class E felonies in Tennessee. The actual sentence imposed may be different depending on the specific circumstances of the case, as well as any prior convictions or aggravating factors.
Consequences of a Class E Felony Conviction
A conviction for a Class E felony in Tennessee can have serious consequences, including:
• Felony record: A felony conviction will stay on your criminal record forever, making it more difficult to secure employment, obtain loans, or get hired in certain fields.
• Time in prison: You could spend anywhere from 1 to 6 years in prison, depending on the specific circumstances of your case.
• Fines: You may be required to pay fines of up to $5,000, which can be a significant financial burden.
• Restitution: You may be required to pay restitution to any victims of the crime, which can also be a significant financial burden.
Defending Against a Class E Felony Charge in TN
If you’ve been charged with a Class E felony in Tennessee, it’s important to seek the advice of a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. A good defense attorney can help you navigate the criminal justice system and work to achieve the best possible outcome in your case. Some potential defenses to consider include:
• Insufficiency of evidence: If the prosecution’s evidence is insufficient or unreliable, your attorney may be able to challenge the charges against you.
• Illegal search or seizure: If your property was searched or seized illegally, your attorney may be able to get the evidence suppressed and have the charges against you dropped.
• Mistaken identity: If the prosecution’s evidence relies on mistaken eyewitness identification or other flawed testimony, your attorney may be able to challenge the charges against you.
• Duress: If you were forced or coerced into committing the crime, your attorney may be able to argue that you should not be held fully responsible for your actions.
Conclusion
A Class E felony in Tennessee is a serious criminal offense that can carry significant penalties and consequences. If you’ve been charged with a Class E felony, it’s important to seek the advice of a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and interests. With the right legal representation, you may be able to achieve a more favorable outcome in your case and avoid the harsh consequences of a felony conviction.
