Drug Crime Attorney in Griffin, Georgia

Being charged with a drug offense in Georgia is a serious legal matter that can lead to harsh penalties, including jail time, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. Whether you're facing charges for possession, distribution, manufacturing, or trafficking, the consequences can be life-altering.

At The Harding Law Firm, LLC the firm's experienced criminal lawyer, Todd A. Harding, is dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome in your case. Trusted by hundreds of clients since 2006, Harding was selected as one of the Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys in 2022.

If you or a loved one is facing drug-related charges, it's crucial to act quickly and secure criminal defense representation. Don't hesitate to reach out to The Harding Law Firm, LLC to schedule a free consultation with a drug crime attorney in Griffin, Georgia, today.

What Are Georgia’s Drug Laws?

According to the Georgia State Legislature, Georgia enforces strict drug laws under the Georgia Controlled Substances Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-13-30). These laws classify drugs into five schedules based on their potential for abuse and accepted medical use:

• Schedule I: High potential for abuse, no accepted medical use (e.g., heroin, LSD, ecstasy). Possession or distribution of these substances carries severe legal penalties, including felony charges and significant prison time.

• Schedule II: High potential for abuse but some accepted medical use (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine, oxycodone). While these drugs may be prescribed for medical treatment, unauthorized possession or trafficking can lead to harsh criminal consequences.

• Schedule III: Moderate potential for abuse, accepted medical use (e.g., anabolic steroids, ketamine). Misuse of these substances, especially without a valid prescription, can result in criminal charges and possible incarceration.

• Schedule IV: Low potential for abuse, commonly prescribed medications (e.g., Xanax, Valium). Though considered less dangerous, these drugs still require a valid prescription, and unlawful possession or distribution is punishable under Georgia law.

• Schedule V: Lowest potential for abuse, often over-the-counter medications (e.g., cough syrups with small amounts of codeine). Despite their low abuse risk, improper use or distribution of these substances can still lead to legal consequences.

Georgia’s drug laws are designed to regulate controlled substances strictly, and violations can result in severe penalties. Working with an experienced drug crime defense attorney can help assure that your rights are protected during your case.

Types of Drug Crimes in Georgia

There are several types of drug charges that individuals may face in Georgia, each carrying different legal consequences.

Drug Possession (Simple Possession)

Possession charges apply when an individual is caught with illegal drugs for personal use. Georgia law distinguishes between actual possession (on your person) and constructive possession (drugs found in your car, home, or belongings).

Some of the most common penalties for drug possession include:

• For marijuana (less than 1 ounce): Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. In addition to jail time and fines, a conviction can result in a criminal record that may impact employment and housing opportunities.

• For marijuana (more than 1 ounce): Felony, with penalties ranging from one to 10 years in prison. A felony conviction for marijuana possession can also lead to the suspension of driving privileges and other long-term legal consequences.

• For Schedule I or II drugs: Felony, punishable by two to 15 years in prison, depending on the amount and prior offenses. Repeat offenses or possession of larger quantities can result in harsher sentences, including mandatory minimum prison terms.

• For Schedule III, IV, or V drugs: Felony, with one to five years in prison for a first offense. Subsequent offenses may carry longer prison sentences and higher fines, making legal representation crucial in such cases.

Drug possession charges in Georgia are taken seriously, and even minor offenses can have lasting effects on your future, making it essential to understand the law and seek legal guidance from a skilled drug crime defense attorney when necessary.

Possession With Intent to Distribute

If law enforcement believes you intend to sell or distribute drugs, your charges will be more severe. Factors such as large quantities, packaging materials, scales, or large amounts of cash may indicate intent to distribute.

Some of the penalties for possession with intent to distribute include:

• For Schedule I or II drugs: Felony, punishable by five to 30 years in prison for a first offense.

• For Schedule III, IV, or V drugs: Felony, punishable by one to 10 years in prison.

• For marijuana distribution: Felony, punishable by one to 10 years in prison (more if near a school or public housing).

Possession with intent to distribute carries significantly harsher penalties than simple possession, and a conviction can lead to lengthy prison sentences. If you're facing these charges, consulting a drug crime defense attorney can help protect your rights and build a strong defense.

Drug Trafficking

Drug trafficking involves the sale, transportation, or importation of large amounts of illegal substances. Georgia law imposes mandatory minimum sentences, meaning judges have little discretion to reduce penalties.

The mandatory minimum sentences for drug trafficking in Georgia include:

• For methamphetamine or cocaine (28+ grams): Minimum 10 years in prison and $200,000 fine.

• For heroin (4+ grams): Minimum five years in prison and $50,000 fine.

• For marijuana (10+ pounds): Minimum five years in prison and $100,000 fine.

Drug trafficking charges carry severe mandatory minimum sentences, making it crucial to have a strong legal defense. Working with an experienced drug crime defense attorney like Todd A. Harding can help you work through the legal system and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

Drug Manufacturing and Cultivation

Producing, growing, or creating illegal drugs is a serious felony. This includes meth labs, marijuana grow houses, and the production of synthetic drugs. Convictions often lead to lengthy prison terms and property forfeiture.

Prescription Drug Crimes

Prescription drug offenses involve unauthorized possession, distribution, or fraudulently obtaining controlled substances such as Oxycodone, Xanax, or Adderall. Georgia takes these cases seriously, and convictions can lead to felony charges, which is why it's vital to work with a drug crime defense attorney you can depend on.

What Are Some Defenses Against Drug Charges?

At The Harding Law Firm, LLC, the firm uses aggressive defense strategies to challenge drug charges and protect your rights. Possible defenses include:

• Illegal search and seizure: If law enforcement conducted an unlawful search without probable cause or a warrant, evidence may be suppressed.

• Lack of possession: If the drugs weren't yours or found in a shared space, Attorney Todd A. Harding can argue that you didn't have knowledge or control over them.

• Planted evidence or police misconduct: If officers fabricated evidence or violated your rights, your case may be dismissed.

• Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you into committing a crime, you may have a valid defense.

• Lab testing errors: Crime lab errors or misidentification of substances can result in dismissed charges.

Building a strong defense against drug charges requires a thorough investigation and a strategic legal approach. At The Harding Law Firm, LLC, Attorney Todd A. Harding is committed to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome in your case. 

Recognized for his dedication and legal skill, Attorney Harding was selected to Rising Stars in 2016, named one of the 10 Best Client Satisfaction Criminal Law Attorneys in 2016, and honored as one of the Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys in 2022. His reputation makes him a trusted advocate for those facing serious drug charges.

What Are the Consequences of a Drug Conviction?

A criminal record can affect nearly every aspect of your life, from employment opportunities to housing and education. Whether you're charged with simple possession or a more severe offense like trafficking, the penalties can be life-altering. 

Some of the most common consequences of a drug conviction include:

• Jail or prison time

• Heavy fines and court costs

• Driver’s license suspension

• Loss of employment or difficulty finding a job

• Ineligibility for federal student loans or housing assistance

• Permanent criminal record

Because of these harsh consequences, it's essential to take any drug charge seriously and seek legal guidance to protect your future.

Are There Alternative Sentencing Options in Georgia?

In some cases, first-time offenders may qualify for alternative sentencing instead of jail time. These programs include:

• Pretrial diversion programs: Successful completion may result in charges being dropped.

• Drug court: A rehabilitation-focused program for non-violent offenders that can lead to a dismissed conviction.

• Conditional discharge: For first-time offenders, completing probation may prevent a conviction from appearing on your record.

Alternative sentencing programs provide eligible offenders with a second chance by focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment. Successfully completing these programs can help you avoid a permanent criminal record.

Contact a Griffin, GA Drug Crime Defense Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been charged with a drug crime in Georgia, reach out to The Harding Law Firm. Attorney Todd A. Harding serves clients throughout Spalding County, Butts County, Monroe County, Lamar County, and Henry County. Contact the firm today to schedule a consultation.