Drug Possession Prosecutors Will Fight Hard Against Your Defense

If you have been charged with possession of an illegal drug, you can be sure that Georgia prosecutors are diligently working to obtain a conviction. They have seemingly endless resources and place a high priority on drug crimes. As a result, anyone facing drug possession charges can feel overwhelmed and feel as if the entire system is against him or her. At my firm, J. Pete Theodocion, Attorney at Law, I can help you even the odds.

I began my career as a drug crimes prosecutor, so I know how both sides of the system work and how the state will build its case against you. I now have more than 20 years of extensive criminal defense experience and have built a reputation for providing aggressive, ethical defense that gets results. I will leave no stone unturned in your case, from challenging illegal searches and seizures to determining if your charges should be dismissed.

Georgia Drug Possession Laws and Penalties

The charge of drug possession in Georgia is complicated in several ways. The most impactful aspect of the charge is the substance of the drug. Georgia, like all states and the federal government, classifies drugs into schedules based on their potential for abuse:

• Schedule I & II, includes such drugs as heroin, cocaine, meth, ecstasy: Possession of drugs in these schedules are automatically felony possession charges and carry between 2-15 year prison sentences
• Schedule III, IV, V, includes many prescription drugs: These charges can be felonies or misdemeanors depending on the amount in possession.
• Marijuana: Under Georgia law, marijuana is no longer scheduled. Still, less than one ounce in possession is classified as a misdemeanor, but more than one ounce is a felony.

A second complicating factor is whether the charge is possession or possession with intent to distribute. “Intent to distribute” is determined by how much of the drugs there is, but also packaging and paraphernalia. Even a miniscule amount of a drug, in the presence of a scale or bagging may lead to an “intent’ charge.

First Offender And Diversion Options In Georgia

If this is your first time facing charge for any sort of drug possession, you may have some options. Georgia’s first offender act allows eligible defendants to avoid convictions. However, it requires the successful completion of probation. The law may recommend drug court and treatment programs rather than facing jail time.

However, not everyone facing their first charge is eligible. Your ability to qualify for this program will depend on the individual factors in your case, such as the amount and type of drugs found. Still, I have seen discharge available for first time drug possession with intent charges and many other positive results.

Appeal Your Drug Possession Conviction

Do you need a knowledgeable attorney to appeal your drug crime conviction? I also provide experienced legal services for criminal appeals.

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There is no time to lose if you are facing drug possession charges. Call my firm right away at 706-250-8762 to discuss your case in confidence. Prospective clients can also reach out via online form.