Firearm and Drug Trafficking Lawyer in Nashville, TN
Allegations involving the possession of a firearm and other violent crimes can lead to serious consequences, as can charges involving the possession, distribution, or trafficking of drugs. When charges for firearm and drug violations are combined, the potential consequences can threaten the defendant’s liberty for years and even decades.
Charges involving the use or carrying of a firearm in connection with or in furtherance of drug trafficking can lead to steep, consecutive jail sentences. In cases charged under 18 U.S.C. §924(c), the punishment for the gun offense runs consecutively to the punishment for the drug offense. Consecutive sentences are worse than concurrent sentences in that they cannot be served together. Rather, the prison time for the gun charge must be served after the time is completely served on the drug case, resulting in longer overall prison sentences. To make matters worse, in this type of gun case, the minimum consecutive sentence for a gun charge connected with drugs is five years. Depending on other circumstances, such as the type of gun (i.e., whether the weapon (or action) is considered a “machine gun,” has a “silencer,” or constitutes a short-barreled rifle), whether it was brandished or discharged, whether this is a repeat offense and other statutory factors, the potential consecutive sentence can escalate to 30 years or even mandatory life imprisonment without release.
The federal courts take charges involving firearm possession and drug trafficking very seriously. Even if your gun is lawfully registered and you have no criminal record, drug charges alleging simultaneous possession of your gun can lead to years and even decades in jail.
Kimberly S. Hodde’s Experience
Federal drug crimes attorney Kimberly Hodde has worked to defend people accused of drug, weapon, and other federal crimes for nearly 30 years, and has successfully represented numerous individuals facing charges involving firearm possession and drug trafficking.
Kimberly Hodde is skilled and experienced in identifying constitutional issues arising from weapon and drug trafficking charges and in pursuing effective legal defenses. Ms. Hodde has successfully achieved acquittals and reductions in charges for individuals facing 18 U.S.C. 924(c) charges. Because the penalties are harsh and consecutive by statute, it is critical that your defense be conducted by an experienced, federally dedicated criminal defense lawyer who can help you avoid conviction for these offenses and who is particularly knowledgeable about federal defense and the constantly developing federal case law in this area.
Defense Against Federal Gun and Drug Charges in Nashville and Nationwide
Kim Hodde and her team at Meister Seelig & Schuster (MSS) bring extensive knowledge of federal firearm laws and a highly analytical approach to cases involving firearm possession allegations. Kim’s deep understanding of constitutional protections, federal statutes and the evidentiary issues that frequently arise in firearm prosecutions allows her team to examine every aspect of the government’s case. With Kim Hodde leading the defense, clients receive sophisticated counsel tailored to the circumstances of their case, whether the matter involves an individual, business owner, executive or organization facing serious federal consequences.
If you have questions regarding weapons possession and drug trafficking charges, contact Kim Hodde and MSS-Nashville. Kimberly S. Hodde can be available for evening and weekend appointments. Ms. Hodde is mindful that you may not have budgeted for funding your defense; so, under some circumstances, she will work with defendants and/or their families on a reasonable payment plan. The firm is conveniently located in a freestanding building on Music Row, just one mile from the federal courthouse with abundant free parking. Contact us at 615-242-4200.