Take The Offensive Against Georgia Drug Charges
The state of Georgia imposes harsh penalties for possessing or distributing drugs. The consequences of a conviction on Georgia drug charges are severe – including steep fines and substantial prison time – and can reverberate far beyond the significant punishments ordered by the court. Indeed, even a misdemeanor can distinctly limit your future employment prospects, educational opportunities or housing options.
At Katherine A. Gonos, Attorney at Law, attorney Gonos knows these stakes. As a former public defender with a comprehensive understanding of Georgia courts, she is committed to providing south Georgia defendants with the representation they need to protect their futures. With nearly two decades of legal experience, her knowledge of the legal system and her aggressive advocacy allow her to take the offensive against prosecutors.
Know The Serious Consequences For Georgia Drug Charge Convictions
While several states have fully or partially legalized marijuana, Georgia certainly has not. Even possession of less than one ounce of marijuana is a misdemeanor, which can result in up to 12 months in prison and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
Possession of more than one ounce of marijuana is a felony which can result in six to 10 years in prison. Possession of any amount of marijuana with an intent to distribute it is punishable by two to 30 years in prison, and a fine of $100,000 to $1 million.
Moreover, as the fentanyl crisis increasingly captures headlines and alarms citizens, Georgia prosecutors face strong public pressure to crack down on the usage and distribution of other drugs. Georgia statutes outline the following ranges of consequences for violating controlled substance laws:
- Possession or distribution of a Schedule I Drug (including heroin, ecstasy, or psychedelic mushrooms) is a felony, and can result in up to 30 years in prison
- Possession or distribution or a Schedule II Drug (including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, hydrocodone or codeine) can result in up to 30 years in prison.
- Possession or distribution of a Schedule III (steroids), Schedule IV (Xanax and Valium) or Schedule V Drug can result in up to 10 years in prison.
When decades of your life are on the line, you need a Georgia drug defense lawyer unafraid to tackle complex cases – including those drug charges linked to violent crime or other criminal charges. Attorney Gonos provides the comprehensive support her clients need to understand their options for relief, and the forceful defense they need to retain control over their lives.
Prescription Drugs Charges In Georgia
State laws strictly regulate controlled substances, including prescription medications. Under O.C.G.A. Section 16-13-30, the possession or distribution of prescription medications is a criminal offense.
Some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs include:
- Opioids: OxyContin, Percocet, Vicodin.
- Benzodiazepines: Xanax, Valium.
- Stimulants: Adderall, Ritalin.
In addition to simple possession, prescription-related criminal charges may include forging scripts, doctor-shopping or pharmacy fraud. Giving or selling a single pill to another person constitutes unlawful distribution under Georgia law.
Understanding Drug-Related DUIs In Georgia
A drug-related DUI charge differs significantly from an alcohol-related DUI. Under O.C.G.A. Section 40-6-391(a)(2), prosecutors need only show that a driver was under the influence of any drug to an extent that made it less safe for them to drive.
Instead of using standard breathalyzer tests, law enforcement officers assess impairment by analyzing pupil size, pulse rate and physical balance. They may also demand blood or urine tests. It is important to hire an attorney for a drug-related DUI to ensure that the arresting officer followed proper protocols during the traffic stop.
Diversion Programs And Alternatives To Conviction
A drug charge does not have to destroy your future. First-time drug offenders often qualify for accountability courts, conditional discharge or pretrial drug diversion programs. These court-supervised options prioritize substance abuse treatment, counseling and community service over jail time.
Successful completion of a diversion program results in a total dismissal of your charges. Attorney Gonos often works closely with prosecutors to explore treatment-based options instead of criminal sentences. She fights to protect your clean record and secure alternative resolutions whenever possible.
Seek The Guidance Of An Assertive Ally
If you are facing Georgia drug charges, don’t hesitate to put a tested fighter on your side. To arrange a consultation with Katherine A. Gonos, Attorney at Law, call 229-269-4923 or contact Ms. Gonos online. Hablamos Espanol.