In Georgia, drug trafficking is a felony offense that comes with harsh penalties. The exact prison sentence and fine you can face depend on the type and amount of drug involved. Regardless, having a drug crime conviction on your record and being subject to severe punishments can tremendously impact the course of your life. To increase your chances of obtaining an optimal result in your case and avoiding or minimizing penalties, it's best to pursue the matter with help from a seasoned Atlanta drug trafficking lawyer.
At The Abt Law Firm, LLC, our Atlanta drug trafficking defense lawyer has over 29 years of experience. Throughout our practice, we have successfully handled 2,500+ cases, getting charges dropped or dismissed and obtaining acquittals for past clients. We are prepared to put our knowledge, skills, and resources to work for you. When you choose us, you can trust that a member of our team will stand by you through every step in your case. You'll have the answers and guidance you need to navigate the complexities of your matter and feel confident in the way it progresses.
We deliver legal representation with professionalism and integrity and can zealously advocate on your behalf. Set up a free consultation with an Atlanta drug trafficking lawyer by calling (770) 977-6105 or contacting us online.
What Is Drug Trafficking?
Various types of conduct are considered drug trafficking.
The offense generally involves the following with controlled substances:
- Sale
- Manufacture
- Delivery
- Importing
- Possession
Typically, what separates drug trafficking from other possession, selling, or delivery offenses is the amount of the drug involved. In many cases, a person may be charged with drug trafficking when they engage in conduct with 28 grams or more of a controlled substance (or 10 pounds or more of marijuana).
Is Drug Trafficking Considered a Felony in GA?
Yes, all instances of drug trafficking is classified as felony in Georgia. The seriousness of the felony charge varies according to circumstances such as the type and quantity of narcotics involved. Georgia imposes harsh consequences for drug trafficking convictions, including lengthy jail sentences and hefty fines. If you are facing drug trafficking accusations, it is best to consult with a qualified drug trafficking attorney.
What Are the Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Georgia?
Drug trafficking is a felony, and the prison sentence ranges from a few years to a few decades. Usually, upon a conviction, a judge must impose a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment. The fines range from tens of thousands to a million dollars.
As mentioned previously, the type and amount of drug will determine the punishments:
Trafficking Ecstasy
The penalties for ecstasy trafficking are as follows:
- 28 grams or more but less than 200 grams:
- Between 3 and 30 years in prison and
- Between $25,000 and $250,000 in fines
- 200 grams or more but less than 400 grams:
- Between 5 and 30 years in prison and
- Between $50,000 and $250,000 in fines
- 400 grams or more:
- Between 10 and 30 years in prison and
- Between $100,000 and $250,000 in fines
Trafficking Cocaine
If a person is found guilty of trafficking cocaine or a mixture containing the drug, they face the following:
- 28 grams or more but less than 200 grams:
- A minimum of 10 years in prison and
- A fine of $200,000
- 200 grams or more but less than 400 grams:
- A minimum of 15 years in prison and
- A fine of $300,000
- 400 grams or more:
- A minimum of 25 years in prison and
- A fine of $1 million
Trafficking Morphine, Opium, and Heroin
If a person traffics morphine, opium, heroin, or certain other Schedule I or II drugs, they could be penalized as follows:
- 4 grams or more but less than 14 grams:
- A minimum of 5 years in prison and
- A fine of $50,000
- 14 grams or more but less than 28 grams:
- A minimum of 10 years in prison and
- A fine of $100,000
- 28 grams or more:
- A minimum of 25 years in prison and
- A fine of $500,000
Trafficking in Marijuana
Anyone who sells, manufactures, grows, delivers, imports into the state, or possesses marijuana can be sentenced as follows:
- 10 pounds or more but less than 2,000 pounds:
- A minimum of 5 years in prison and
- A fine of $100,000
- 2,000 pounds or more but less than 10,000 pounds:
- A minimum of 7 years in prison and
- A fine of $250,000
- 10,000 pounds or more:
- A minimum of 15 years in prison and
- A fine of $1 million
Trafficking Methamphetamine
A person who traffics methamphetamine or amphetamine can face the following punishments:
- 28 grams or more but less than 200 grams:
- A minimum of 10 years in prison and
- A fine of $200,000
- 200 grams or more but less than 400 grams:
- A minimum of 15 years in prison and
- A fine of $300,000
- 400 grams or more:
- A minimum of 25 years in prison and
- A fine of $1 million
Whatever controlled substance was involved in your alleged offense, discuss your case with our drug trafficking attorney in Atlanta.
Understanding the Legal Process for Drug Trafficking Charges
Being charged with drug trafficking can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. It's important to understand the legal process and your rights when facing these serious charges. Our experienced Atlanta drug trafficking lawyers can guide you through the legal process and provide you with the aggressive defense you need.
Key aspects of the legal process for drug trafficking charges include:
- Arrest and booking
- Bail and pre-trial release options
- Grand jury indictment or preliminary hearing
- Discovery process and evidence review
- Negotiations for plea deals or alternative sentencing
- Court trial or sentencing hearing
It's essential to have a skilled legal advocate on your side to navigate the complexities of the legal process and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. Contact our Georgia drug trafficking lawyers today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
Defenses Against Drug Trafficking Charges
A careful assessment of the facts is required when developing a defense opposing drug trafficking claims. Simply being charged with a crime does not guarantee that you will be convicted, and being innocent does not guarantee victory either. If you have been accused of drug trafficking in Georgia, do not hesitate to speak with a skillful drug trafficking lawyer at The Abt Law Firm, LLC. We can help you build a solid defense case!
Below are some common defenses:
- Illegal Search and Seizure: This is one of the most common drug trafficking defenses. If police violated your Fourth Amendment rights by performing an illegal search or seizure, all evidence gathered as a result of that violation may be declared inadmissible in court. Contesting the legality of the search may break down the evidence against you.
- Lack of Knowledge or Intent: One possible defense is that you were unaware of the presence of drugs or that the substances were illegal. If you can prove that you had no knowledge of the substances and had no intention of trafficking them, you may be able to weaken the prosecution's case.
- Entrapment: You may have a legitimate entrapment argument if you can show that law enforcement personnel enticed or pressured you into committing a drug trafficking felony that you would not have done otherwise. This defense claims that you were "set up" by law enforcement.
The viability of these defenses depends on the specific circumstances of your case. Consulting with an experienced drug trafficking defense attorney is crucial to determine the most suitable defense strategy for your situation.
Get A Free Consultation With Expert Georgia Drug Trafficking Lawyers
Although you are facing a criminal charge, that does not mean you're guilty. Options may be available to challenge the accusation. Our Atlanta drug trafficking lawyers are ready to explore every legal avenue to seek a favorable outcome for you.
For personalized counsel and aggressive defense, call (770) 977-6105 or submit a contact form to speak with our experienced Atlanta drug trafficking attorney.
