Georgia has stricter drug laws than many other states. While some jurisdictions have legalized or decriminalized a variety of substances, Georgia still has strong prohibition statutes. People can get arrested for prohibited drugs and also for inappropriate conduct with prescription medication.
Prosecutors can bring a variety of different charges ranging from minor misdemeanor possession offenses to felony charges related to trafficking or manufacturing drugs. Those facing drug charges in Georgia are often anxious about the future. They may worry about the possibility of the courts imposing the harshest penalties possible, for example.
What are the criminal penalties that the courts can impose after a guilty plea or conviction for a drug offense in Georgia?
Many factors influence the penalties for drug offenses
There are numerous different types of charges that prosecutors can bring against defendants for drug offenses in Georgia. The penalties an individual faces depend on the nature of the charge and whether they face misdemeanor or felony charges. The standard penalties include incarceration, fines, probation and community service required as a condition of probation.
Larger amounts of drugs can worsen the penalties an individual faces. So can prior offenses. Even the type of drugs can influence the penalties imposed. Drugs with a lower schedule number often carry more serious consequences. Schedule I drugs are subject to harsher restrictions and penalties than Schedule IV substances.
For those facing the lowest-level possession charges possible, the penalties might include up to a year in jail and $1,000 in fines. If the state asserts that someone possessed the drug with the intent to distribute it, that could increase the severity of the charges and the possible penalties. Possession of more dangerous drugs or large amounts of a substance can result in felony possession charges.
The most serious drug offenses in Georgia include trafficking and distribution. The worst penalties the courts could impose include between 10 years and life in prison and up to $500,000 in fines.
Reviewing the details of the state’s case with a skilled legal team can give people more insight into the potential consequences of pending drug charges. Those accused of breaking the law may be able to defend against those allegations with the right support and an appropriate legal strategy.