DeKalb County Drug Lawyer

Georgia has some of the most austere drug laws in the United States, and breaking them can lead to between 5-25+ years in prison. Additionally, the amount of drugs involved can impact the sentencing, increasing the length of jail time and at times even allowing for the defendant to be charged with multiple criminal acts.

Because of these high stakes, finding a DeKalb County drug lawyer to assist you throughout the proceedings is crucial. In his 25 years of criminal justice experience, the former elected District Attorney, Robert James has firsthand experience working closely with law enforcement and understands what it takes to provide you with sound counsel during this time. He brings a wealth of knowledge and resources to each case he accepts.

Are you facing drug charges? Our seasoned defense attorney is ready to represent you! Call Robert James Trial Attorneys today or contact us online to start your defense!

What are the Different Categories of Drug Charges?

In Georgia, there are several different categories of drug crimes:

• Drug Possession
• Drug Distribution
• Drug Manufacturing
• Drug Trafficking

As a DeKalb County drug attorney could explain, drug trafficking is the most severe of the charges. It is defined as possessing, selling, distributing, or manufacturing a large amount of illegal drugs. The quantity involved is what sets this charge apart from the others. There is a mandatory prison sentence for drug trafficking which means if you are convicted, there is a minimum number of years that you must go to jail, regardless of any extenuating circumstances or the judge’s discretion. The mandatory prison sentence length depends on which drug was being trafficked and the amount involved.

However, jail time is not the only concern if charged with drug trafficking. There will also be a fine involved, which can range from $100,000 to $1,000,000. Furthermore, this crime is considered a felony, meaning that there will be daily ramifications for the rest of your life if convicted.

What are the Different Scheduled Drugs?

There is a scheduling of the different drugs that is based on their danger and has correspondingly harsh sentences. These are based on the federal scheduling in all cases except for marijuana which is schedule I federally, but is treated not as harshly in Georgia.

Schedule I and II

• This group includes Heroin, LSD, Methamphetamine
• Punishments for normal drug possession:
  • 2-15 years in state prison, and subsequent convictions are 2-15 years
  • felony conviction

Schedule III – IV

• This group includes Adderall, Vicodin, Ketamine, Anabolic Steroids, Xanax and Valium.
• Punishments for normal drug possession:
  • 1-5 years in state prison, and subsequent convictions are 1-10 years
  • felony conviction

What is the Penalty for Marijuana Possession?

• Punishment for possession of less than 1 oz:
  • misdemeanor conviction
  • 1 year in state prison
  • fine of up to $1000
• Punishment for over 1 oz
  • felony conviction
  • 1-10 years in state prison
  • fine up to $5000

A seasoned DeKalb County drug attorney could explain the different drug schedules and the potential penalties that come with each during a free initial consultation.

Contact a DeKalb County Drug Crime Attorney Today

Cases concerning drug crimes are contentious, with much room for interpretation and a wide range of possible rulings. The criminal defense provided by Robert James Trial Attorney has many years of experience and an impressive list of courtroom victories.If you need a DeKalb County drug lawyer, don’t hesitate to put us on your side of the courtroom. Reach out to our office today to get started.