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What are the penalties for a drug crime?

On Behalf of | Jan 15, 2021 | Drug charges

Each state has their own penalties for drug crimes. If someone is facing charges for a drug crime here in Georgia, they should know just how their future and freedom are at stake. Despite the attitude toward marijuana use and possession becoming more casual over the years, there are still consequences for having this drug in your possession.

Georgia has its own laws about marijuana and even more about other drugs. Depending on the severity of the drug (or schedule), a conviction’s consequences can vary.

Georgia drug penalties

Possession of marijuana in an amount smaller than one ounce can result in a conviction of up to a year of incarceration and a fine up to $1,000. If a person receives charges of intent to sell, the felony can result in the convicted earning up to 30 years of incarceration and up to $1,000,000 in fines.

Other drugs fall into one of five groups, or schedules:

  • Schedule I – Heroin, LSD, ecstasy, mushrooms
  • Schedule II – hydrocodone, codeine, cocaine, meth
  • Schedule III – Steroids
  • Schedule IV – Valium and Xanax
  • Schedule V – Certain cough medicine

The higher on the list a drug charge is, the worse the consequences can be. A conviction for drugs involving schedules III, IV, and V groups qualify as a felony and can have up to five-year sentencing for incarceration or up to 10 for the sale of these drugs. Schedule I and II convictions can result in sentencing of up to 30 years for possession or sale.

Fight your charges

If you face charges in Georgia for drug possession or sale, do not just accept the charges, even if the police tell you it will make things easier. An experienced criminal defense attorney can find ways to defend their clients or even negotiate to reduce or drop the charges. Reach out to a lawyer to see how they can help you.