Fort Oglethorpe Drug Lawyer

Georgia law establishes strict regulations on the possession of illegal and prescription drugs. A conviction for possessing even a small amount of a prohibited drug could subject you to severe penalties, not the least of which may include the suspension of your driver’s license. Call today to speak with a Fort Oglethorpe drug lawyer if you have been charged with a drug crime.

An accomplished narcotics attorney could safeguard your legal interests and help you lodge a strong defense or negotiate a plea deal to maximize your chances of a successful resolution.

Drug Classifications

Georgia law classifies controlled dangerous substances into five schedules, in accordance with their potential likelihood to be abused by users. These classifications are as follows.

Schedule I Drugs

Those that are not accepted as a form of medical treatment and present a significant possibility for consumer abuse (i.e. heroin). See Georgia Code §16-13-25.

Schedule II Drugs

Drugs that are accepted as a form of medical treatment subject to stringent restrictions and present a significant probability for abuse. Schedule II drugs may cause severe dependence, both physical and psychic (i.e. morphine, opium). See O.C.G.A. §16-13-26.

Schedule III Drugs

Those that are accepted as a form of medical treatment and present less probability for abuse than drugs in the Schedule I or II classifications. Consumer abuse of these drugs could cause moderate physical addiction and lead to significant psychological addiction (i.e. anabolic steroids). See O.C.G.A. §16-13-27.

Schedule IV Drugs

Schedule IV drugs present less possibility for consumer abuse than drugs in the Schedule III classification. These drugs also are less likely to result in psychological or physical addition and are accepted as a form of medical treatment. (i.e. diazepam). See O.C.G.A. §16-13-28.

Schedule V Drugs

Finally, Schedule V drugs present the least possibility for consumer abuse in comparison to Schedule IV drugs. These controlled dangerous substances carry a low risk for addiction and are accepted for medical treatment. Medicines in this classification contain minute quantities of certain narcotics. See O.C.G.A. §16-13-29.

What Are the Penalties for Drug Possession in Fort Oglethorpe?

The long-term consequences associated with a Fort Oglethorpe drug conviction could include a permanent criminal record, making it vital that a qualified drug possession lawyer is sought. A Schedule I or Schedule II drug conviction may incur up to 15 years’ incarceration, with subsequent offenses facing upwards of 30 years in jail.

When a person is convicted for possessing Schedule III, IV, or V drugs, the term of imprisonment could range from 12 months up to five years. Addition convictions may lead to up to a decade’s incarceration.

Marijuana and Flunitrazepam Drug Possession Charges

Possessing one ounce of marijuana or less is a misdemeanor offense, incurring punishments which may include 12 months in jail and $1,000 in fines. If someone is caught possessing more than one ounce of marijuana, the charge would be elevated to a felony. A felony marijuana possession conviction may result in up to 10 year in prison and upwards of $5,000 in fines. For those charged with possession of marijuana, a lawyer could be of exceptional use.

Flunitrazepam drug possession also constitutes a felony charge with punishments including up to 15 years in jail for a first conviction and up to 30 years in jail for additional offenses.

Could Someone Face Consequences for Possessing Drug Paraphernalia?

Drug-related objects include mediums for packaging, storing, growing, ingesting, or administering controlled dangerous substances. Possessing a drug-related object or possessing such an object for the purpose of using it could lead to misdemeanor charges. If convicted, a person could face 12 month’s imprisonment and/or have to pay upwards of $1,000 in fines.

Driver’s License Suspension

Someone convicted for drug possession may face suspension of their driver’s license. For a first conviction, a mandatory six-month suspension would apply. Second convictions incur a one-year license suspension period. For a third or subsequent drug convictions, a person could lose their license for two years.

When someone has been charged with drug possession, or another drug-related crime, it is a good idea to consult with a Fort Oglethorpe attorney could help them understand the charges they are up against, the potential penalties, and various legal options available.

Talk to a Fort Oglethorpe Drug Attorney

A drug crime conviction could result in lengthy periods of incarceration, and have considerable long-term ramifications. A criminal record could follow a person with a conviction forever. It could also affect things like the person’s insurance, school admissions, and employment prospects.

A Fort Oglethorpe narcotics lawyer could fight to protect your rights and provide solid defense strategies against your charges. Call now to schedule a confidential consultation and discuss what defenses could be possible in your case.