Being charged with cocaine possession has the potential to change your life. You are likely under a significant amount of stress as you consider the chance that you might go to prison. But, before you seal your fate, remember you are innocent until proven guilty and you may still have options available!
A local defense attorney knows Georgia’s cocaine laws well, but has abundant experience in the local courtrooms, dealing with judges and prosecutors that may be assigned to your case. This sort of experience can be invaluable in a cocaine possession case.
Whether you are guilty or not, these charges can tarnish your image and carry serious personal, not to mention legal, penalties.
Georgia Cocaine Possession Penalties
Under Georgia law, cocaine is considered a Schedule II substance. This means it has a relatively high risk of addiction and is treated as a dangerous substance under the law. Possession of cocaine is a felony.
If you are convicted of cocaine possession and it is your first offense, you will face 2-15 years in prison and fines.
If this is your second or subsequent offense, you will face 5-30 years in prison and fines.
These penalties are extremely severe and Georgia is known for its harsh drug laws. If you are accused of possessing drugs, the system would love to see you pay for it.
Cocaine Charge Defense Strategies
The best defense strategy for your case will depend on the individual facts of your case. No two cocaine possession cases are the same. For that reason, our attorneys treat each and every case as unique, giving you the individualized attention needed to help minimize the effects of these charges on your life.
Your case could hinge on evidence that was seized in violation of your rights or handled improperly after it was confiscated. We can challenge the admissibility of this evidence in court and even move to have the case dismissed if the evidence is suppressed.
Georgia Drug Courts
Georgia is home to a growing number of drug courts. Though they are still not available in every jurisdiction, these courts are designed to help people get treatment, rather than strictly penalize them. If your case qualifies for drug court participation, you will be required to attend treatment, maintain employment, submit to random drug tests, and check in frequently with the court.
If you are charged with cocaine possession and are in need of assistance, contact our attorneys today to discuss your legal situation options and how we might be able to help you.