Being charged with a drug offense in Georgia, whether it's possession charges, intent to distribute, or trafficking, is a serious matter that could significantly impact your life. Convictions for drugs such as heroin, cocaine, or marijuana might lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines, imprisonment, and long-term consequences on your personal and professional future. Even a first drug possession charge can result in mandatory minimum sentences, while repeat convictions can carry harsher penalties. Beyond incarceration, a drug conviction can limit your ability to find employment, join the military, or access financial aid for education.
If you're facing drug charges, the stakes are high. It is essential to act quickly and secure the guidance of an experienced possession lawyer in Savannah. At The Ozer Law Firm, attorney Jennifer L. Ozer is dedicated to helping individuals across Chatham County and beyond defend themselves against drug charges. With her deep knowledge of Georgia drug laws, she will work alongside you to build a strategic and effective defense to protect your rights and your future.
Georgia’s Drug Classification System
Georgia’s drug laws are strict and classify controlled substances into five schedules based on their medical use, potential for abuse, and safety profile. Understanding how these classifications work is critical to addressing your drug offense charges.
- Schedule I: Substances with no accepted medical use, such as heroin, LSD, and ecstasy
- Schedule II: Drugs with a high potential for abuse, including cocaine, methamphetamine, and hydrocodone
- Schedule III: Includes steroids and other substances with moderate to low potential for dependence
- Schedule IV: Medications like Xanax and Valium with a low risk of abuse but a high potential for misuse
- Schedule V: Drugs with limited abuse potential, such as small amounts of prescription cough medicines
Marijuana remains tightly regulated under Georgia law. While small allowances exist for medical use of cannabis oil, possession of marijuana in significant amounts can bring severe penalties.
Georgia Drug Possession Charges and Penalties
Penalties for drug possession in Georgia depend on the type and quantity of the substance involved. Here is an overview of the potential consequences for drug possession charges:
- Schedule I or narcotic Schedule II drugs: 2-15 years in prison for a first conviction; up to 30 years for subsequent convictions
- Non-narcotic Schedule II drugs: 2-15 years for the first offense; 5-30 years for additional convictions
- Schedule III, IV, or V drugs: 1-5 years in prison for a first conviction; 1-10 years for subsequent offenses
Possession of marijuana penalties is based on the amount:
- 1 ounce or less: A misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine
- More than 1 ounce: A felony carrying a mandatory minimum sentence of 1 year to up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $5,000
If the amount exceeds 10 pounds, the charge may escalate to drug trafficking.
Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Georgia
Drug trafficking is one of the most severe drug offenses in Georgia, involving activities like manufacturing, sale, delivery, or possession with intent to distribute. Consequences include lengthy prison sentences and steep fines. Specifically, trafficking marijuana, cocaine, or heroin brings escalating penalties based on the quantity.
All Georgia drug trafficking offenses are punished as felonies. The specific penalties will, like possession, depend on the type of drug:
- Any Schedule I or narcotic Schedule II drug: Punishable by 5-30 years in prison for a first offense; punishable by 10-40 years or life in prison for subsequent convictions
- Any Schedule III, IV, or V drug: Punishable by 1-10 years in prison
If your case involves violations like hiring individuals under 17 to aid in trafficking, these charges carry heightened punishments. Regardless of the substance or situation, federal law may also come into play, especially where marijuana is concerned.
Marijuana trafficking is also a serious felony penalized by jail time and fines depending on the amount:
- Up to 10 pounds: 1-10 years in prison
- 10-2000 pounds: 5 years in prison and $100,000 in fines
- 2000-10,000 pounds: 7 years in prison and a mandatory $250,000 fine
- More than 10,000 pounds: 15 years in prison and up to $1,000,000 in fines
Possession of more than 10 pounds of marijuana is considered a crime of trafficking. We can also defend the rights of those facing charges for driving under the influence of drugs.
Why Work With The Ozer Law Firm, LLC
When you choose Jennifer L. Ozer as your drug crimes attorney in Savannah, Georgia, you can count on knowledgeable and compassionate legal counsel. At The Ozer Law Firm, LLC, we take the time to understand the specific details of your case and craft a tailored defense strategy. From reviewing the circumstances of your arrest to identifying potential violations like illegal search and seizure, we will leave no detail unexplored.
Our firm is committed to protecting your rights, explaining your legal options clearly, and helping you make informed decisions for the best possible outcome. You do not have to face these drug charges alone—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Protect your rights, your record, and your future. Trust The Ozer Law Firm, LLC to defend against drug charges in Savannah and surrounding counties. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
FAQs on Drug Possession
How can a drug crimes attorney help me?
A skilled drug crimes attorney can provide invaluable assistance at every stage of your case. From conducting a thorough investigation to challenge the evidence against you to negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options, an attorney can help protect your rights and advocate for the best possible outcome. Additionally, an attorney can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process, answering your questions, addressing your concerns, and keeping you informed every step of the way.
What are the potential consequences of a drug conviction in Savannah, GA?
The potential consequences of a drug conviction in Savannah, GA, can vary depending on factors such as the type and quantity of drugs involved, your criminal history, and other aggravating or mitigating circumstances. Penalties for drug crimes can range from fines and probation to imprisonment and forfeiture of assets. Additionally, a drug conviction can have long-term consequences, including difficulty finding employment, housing, and educational opportunities, as well as the loss of certain civil rights.
Will I go to jail if I am convicted of a drug crime in Georgia?
Whether or not you will go to jail if convicted of a drug crime depends on several factors, including the severity of the offense, your criminal history, and the specific circumstances of your case. In some cases, alternative sentencing options such as probation, drug rehabilitation programs, or community service may be available. However, for more serious offenses or repeat offenders, jail time is a possibility. An experienced drug crimes attorney can assess your case and help you understand the potential consequences you may face.
Can my drug charges be dismissed?
In some cases, it may be possible to have drug charges dismissed or reduced through pre-trial motions, plea negotiations, or other legal strategies. Factors that may contribute to the dismissal or reduction of charges include violations of your constitutional rights, lack of probable cause for a search or arrest, insufficient evidence, or mitigating circumstances. However, every case is unique, and the outcome will depend on the specific facts and legal issues involved. A skilled drug crimes attorney can evaluate your case and advise you on the best course of action.
If I’m a passenger during a traffic stop where a dollar bill in my belongings tested positive for a felony substance, what should I do?
If you are a passenger and a search leads to an item testing positive for a controlled substance, you may still face felony drug possession charges. It’s essential to remain calm, avoid providing any statements without legal representation, and consult a knowledgeable possession lawyer in Savannah as soon as possible. An attorney will examine whether the search was lawful and work to establish your lack of knowledge or control over the substance, potentially reducing or dismissing the charges.
My co-defendant’s drug possession case was dismissed in Georgia. Do I still need to appear in court due to a continuance?
Yes. Even if your co-defendant’s charges were dismissed, it does not absolve you of the responsibility to appear for your scheduled court hearing. Your case will be handled independently, and missing a court date can result in additional legal consequences, including a bench warrant. Consult your attorney to understand how your co-defendant’s dismissal may influence your case and to ensure proper legal representation as proceedings continue.
If I have a citation for possession of marijuana under 1 ounce, do I still need to appear in court after paying the fine?
Yes, you must appear in court even if you have paid the fine for a citation of possession of marijuana under 1 ounce. While paying the fine might seem like resolving the issue, failure to attend the court date can result in further penalties or a warrant being issued. An attorney can provide guidance on whether it’s possible to negotiate alternative approaches or request a resolution without an in-court appearance based on your circumstances.
