Riverdale Drug Lawyer

An accusation of a drug-related crime can be frightening. In Georgia, these crimes carry significant penalties and prosecutors are particularly focused on taking down those responsible for the trafficking of controlled substances. While simple possession is a serious crime, drug trafficking can land you in prison for the rest of your life. Be sure to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney about your case. 

When you have been accused of a drug crime, you could face years in prison, fines, and other consequences. The exact nature of your sentence will depend on the type of crime, your prior convictions, and the type of drug involved. Speak with a Riverdale drug lawyer about developing a defense.

Types of Drug Crimes

The law categorized drugs into different schedules based on how dangerous and addictive the substances are. The penalties for a drug conviction turn on which schedule of drugs a person is accused of having or selling. Schedule I drugs are the most dangerous narcotics, do not have medical value and are highly addictive. These include:

• LSD
• Heroin
• Ecstasy
• Mushrooms

On the other hand, Schedule II drugs are less dangerous and have some medicinal value but are highly addictive and unlawful:

• Opium
• Codeine
• Cocaine
• Ketamine
• Oxycodone
• Methamphetamine

Schedule III drugs are normal substances that are often legitimately prescribed but abused, such as antidepressants or steroids. Similarly, Schedule IV drugs are prescription drugs that are highly abused, including Xanax, Ambien, and Valium. 

A person could face various types of drug charges, from possession to trafficking. Some common types of drug crimes in this state include:

• Drug sales
• Conspiracy
• Simple possession
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Possession with intent to distribute
• Manufacturing controlled substance
• Drug trafficking (selling in large amounts)

No matter what type of drug crime a person faces, an attorney in Riverdale could help them understand their charges, potential penalties, and defense strategy for mitigating the consequences. 

Typical Defenses to Drug Charges

Like any other crime, a strong defense strategy will depend on the facts and circumstances of the case. In drug cases, a common defense tactic is to show that there was an illegal search. The police must follow certain procedures when investigating, searching, and seizing evidence. The Fourth Amendment protects citizens from unlawful searches and seizures, which means that if someone seized evidence of a drug crime in violation of the Fourth Amendment, the court may suppress that evidence. Without sufficient evidence, prosecutors may have to drop the charges entirely. 

Another common defense tactic is to show that the defendant did not have intent to sell or distribute. A lawyer in Riverdale could negotiate with prosecutors on the defendant’s behalf to advocate that the drug charges be dropped or, at a minimum, reduced.

Connect With a Riverdale Attorney About Drug Violations

When you are accused of a drug crime in this state, you have rights. While it may seem like the evidence weighs heavily against you, an attorney could review the case and determine what defenses are applicable. Officers make mistakes, and when evidence is unlawfully seized, you have the right to challenge it in court. 

With your future on the line, choosing the right legal representation is critical. A Riverdale drug lawyer could help make the best argument based on the circumstances of your case. Contact us to schedule a consultation and get started on your case.