Savannah GA Drug Crimes Lawyer

Drug Crimes in Georgia

Drug Possession
Drug Distribution
Drug Trafficking

Drug crimes can carry very serious penalties along with them in the state of Georgia, and the possible sentences vary a great deal depending on what type of drug is involved, how much of it one is accused of possessing, and whether they intended to sell it or use it personally. Schedule I drugs are considered to be highly addictive and possessing no therapeutic or medical value, and these are drugs that are often abused. Ecstasy, LSD, and heroin are considered to be Schedule I drugs.

The penalties for possession of Schedule I drugs in Georgia are very significant. A first offense for simple possession can result in between two and fifteen years in prison, and a second possession offense can bring a jail sentence of between five and thirty years along with it. Sale of a Schedule I drug calls for between five and thirty years of incarceration; if you get a second conviction for selling a Schedule I drug, the penalty can include life imprisonment.

Schedule II drugs are also classified as being addictive and prone to abuse, but they do indeed possess some known therapeutic or medical value. Drugs that fall into this category are cocaine and amphetamines. The potential penalties for the possession or sale of Schedule II drugs is the same as for Schedule I controlled substances. Schedule III, IV, and V drugs have progressively decreasing potential for abuse and do have an accepted medical utility. Penalties for sale or possession of these substances is generally between one and ten years of incarceration.

Marijuana laws in Georgia are somewhat less harsh, but serious all the same. Possession of less than one ounce of marijuana is a misdemeanor in the state of Georgia, and for a first offense the charge can be dismissed once a period of probation has been completed. However, possession of an ounce or more is a felony that is punishable by between one and ten years in prison, and possession within 1,000 feet of a school zone can carry a sentence of up to 20 years. Sale, cultivation, or trafficking of marijuana are all felonies that carry significant jail time and very hefty fines.

Clearly, drug crimes can result in some devastating consequences, and it is very important to retain the services of an experienced Georgia drug lawyer as soon as you can if you are accused of a drug crime. These matters are very complex, and your attorney can examine the facts, explain your options to you,  and advocate your interests to the court.

If you are suspected of or charged with violating a drug statute in the State of Georgia, then contact a Savannah GA drug crime defense lawyer today.