Criminal Citations

Someone who receives a criminal citation in Tennessee has still been charged with a crime—and the choices made before that first court date can determine whether the charge follows them for years or is resolved with far less damage. A focused Nashville criminal citation lawyer can help you protect your record, minimize court time, and avoid costly mistakes.

What is a criminal citation in Tennessee?

Under Tennessee law, officers can issue a criminal citation in lieu of arrest for many non‑violent misdemeanor offenses instead of taking you to jail. Common charges that often result in a citation instead of handcuffs include:​

• Simple possession or casual exchange of drugs

• Possession of drug paraphernalia

• Shoplifting and other low‑level theft offenses

A criminal citation means law enforcement believed you could safely be released but still decided to charge you with a crime. It is not “just a ticket”—it starts a criminal case that can lead to a conviction, probation, fines, and even jail time if not handled correctly.​

Does receiving a criminal citation mean I am in less trouble?

A citation usually means the charge is a misdemeanor and that the officer believed you were not dangerous and had reliable ID, but it does not reduce the seriousness of the offense itself. For example:​

• Simple possession or casual exchange of a controlled substance is generally a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail, fines, court costs, and collateral consequences.​

• Possession of drug paraphernalia and many shoplifting charges can also be Class A misdemeanors with similar exposure and a permanent criminal record if you are convicted.​

In other words, a criminal citation is often the same charge you would have faced if you had been arrested and booked—it just means you were allowed to go home that day instead of to jail.

Do I need a lawyer for a criminal citation?

If your citation requires you to appear in criminal court, you are facing a criminal offense that can carry jail time and a permanent conviction. Any time jail is possible and your record is on the line, you should speak with a Tennessee criminal defense lawyer. A Nashville criminal citation attorney can:​

• Explain exactly what you are charged with, the maximum penalties, and how it may affect your background checks and future opportunities.

• Evaluate the stop, search, and evidence for defenses or weaknesses that could lead to dismissal, reduction, diversion, or other favorable outcomes.

• Handle court appearances, negotiations, and paperwork efficiently so you do not make a quick decision that hurts you long-term.

How do I know if my citation is criminal?

If the paperwork you received lists a court date in General Sessions or Criminal Court, or references a criminal statute like simple possession, drug paraphernalia, theft, or other misdemeanor charges, it is almost certainly a criminal citation—not just a traffic ticket. Failing to appear can lead to a bench warrant and an additional Class A misdemeanor charge for failure to appear in some circumstances.​

Not sure what to do after a criminal citation?

If you were cited for simple possession, paraphernalia, shoplifting, or any other misdemeanor in Nashville or a surrounding Middle Tennessee county, do not wait until your court date to find out what might happen. A Nashville criminal citation lawyer at Shipman & Crim can review your citation, explain your options, and help you pursue outcomes that protect your record—such as dismissal, reduction, diversion, or other alternatives where available.​

Call (615) 829‑8259 today to speak with a Tennessee criminal defense attorney about your criminal citation and next steps.

My Tennessee Citation is for:

– Simple Possession of Marijuana

– Simple Possession of Cocaine or other substance

– Possession of Drug Paraphernalia