Drug offenses span many different types of crimes. You can face simple possession charges, manufacturing charges, trafficking charges, and more. The penalties for each of these vary based on certain factors.
It can be difficult and scary if you face drug charges in Georgia. The potential penalties for these crimes are severe, and you may be unsure what to do. At the Law Offices of Matthew C. Hines, we can help with your drug charge situation and provide you with an aggressive defense.
Knowing about some of the most common felony drug offenses in the state will help you know what to do if you are charged with this crime.
Factors Considered When Charging Someone with a Drug Crime
Several factors are considered when a drug offense is classified in Georgia.
The first consideration is the schedule of the substance involved. Drugs are categorized as Schedule I, II, III, IV, or V. The classification depends on the addictiveness or danger of the drug.
If the situation involves a more dangerous drug (Schedule I or II drugs), it is often charged as a felony.
Another factor is the amount of the drug involved. For example, if someone is caught with a small amount of a drug that is for personal use, it may be charged as a misdemeanor. However, for larger amounts of a drug, a felony charge will likely apply.
Types of Drugs Commonly Charged as Felony Offenses
Regarding felony drug charges, some substances are more commonly seen in this category than others. These include the following:
- LSD
- Heroin
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Methamphetamine
The charges that are involved with these substances include cultivation, possession, trafficking, sale, offenses involving a minor, and possession with the intent to distribute the substance.
First-Time Felony Drug Possession Charges
In Georgia, felony drug charges are considered serious crimes. The crimes can result in extensive prison sentences and significant fines.
If you face a first-offense felony drug charge, you will face specific consequences. For example:
- If you possess a Schedule I or Schedule II drug, you can face a prison sentence of two to 15 years. For second or subsequent convictions of possession charges, you will face up to 30 years in prison.
- If you possess a Schedule III, Schedule IV, or Schedule V drug, your first offense can result in a prison sentence of one to five years. For second or subsequent convictions of possession charges, you will face one to 10 years in jail.
Felony Possession Drug Conviction Penalties
If you are charged with drug possession in Georgia, how the crime is charged depends on a few factors. These factors include the following:
- Total weight of the substance you possess impacts your penalties. A general rule is that the more weight in drugs you have in your possession, the more severe the sentence will be.
- Your past criminal history will impact the penalties you face. If you have prior convictions, this may result in more severe penalties for subsequent crimes.
As you can see, the potential penalties for felony drug charges are severe. You must take steps to protect your rights if you find yourself in this situation.
Seek Legal Help for Felony Drug Charges
All drug charges are serious. However, if you are facing felony drug charges, the potential penalties and impact on your life can be significant. The consequences you face can impact your future, rights, and relationships if convicted.
If you are arrested for drug charges, you should invoke your right to remain silent. You may want to try to explain what is going on; however, everything you say to the authorities can be used to build a case against you. By staying silent, you aren’t providing any additional evidence for the authorities to use against you.
You should also contact our legal team at the Law Offices of Matthew C. Hines. We will immediately gather evidence and build a solid defense for your case.
We provide aggressive representation for all our clients to help them achieve the best possible outcome for their situation.
The first step is to contact us to schedule a consultation to discuss your situation. We offer legal services for individuals throughout Georgia and have past client testimonials about our drug crime defense services.