Many people deal drugs to make money. However, getting caught with large amounts of drugs is highly illegal. This is called drug trafficking, and Georgia takes these crimes seriously. If you are convicted, you can expect a significant uphill battle regarding protecting your legal rights.
The penalties for drug trafficking crimes are not cut and dry. You will face hefty fines and prison time, but the amounts and prison terms will vary based on the type of drug in your possession and the amount. These provisions allow for extremely high fines, mandatory minimum sentences, and possible forfeiture of your property.
What the Law Says
O.C.G.A. § 16-13-31 outlines the penalties for various drugs. For cocaine, methamphetamine, and amphetamine, possession of 28 to 200 grams will result in a minimum of 10 years imprisonment and a $200,000 fine. For 200 to 400 grams, you will face a minimum of 15 years imprisonment and a $300,000 fine. For 400 grams or more, you will face a minimum of 25 years imprisonment and a $1 million fine.
Marijuana Cases
For marijuana, between 10 pounds and 2,000 pounds will result in at least five years in prison and a $100,000 fine. For 2,000 to 10,000 pounds, you will face a minimum of seven years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. For 10,000 pounds or more, you will face a minimum of 15 years imprisonment and a $1 million fine.
Other Drug Trafficking Penalties
For illegal drugs such as heroin, morphine, and opium, possession of 4 to 14 grams will result in a minimum of five years imprisonment and a $50,000 fine. For 14 to 28 grams, you will face a minimum of 10 years imprisonment and a $100,000 fine. For 28 grams or more, you will face a minimum of 25 years imprisonment and a $500,000 fine.
The penalties are so strict due to federal laws since drug trafficking tends to cross state borders. These penalties may be even stricter based on factors such as prior convictions and use of a firearm. Engaging in other crimes while trafficking drugs can also increase the penalties.
More than likely, you will face prison time for a drug trafficking charge. It is possible to get probation for drug trafficking in Georgia under certain circumstances, but it is very rare. Some people may qualify for the First Offender Act, which allows individuals with no prior felony conviction to avoid prison by going on probation. You can ask for this in a plea deal.
Get a Serious Defense Lawyer for Serious Crimes
Drug trafficking is a serious crime that can result in hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines as well as decades in prison.
Trafficking is a high-level drug crime that comes with mandatory minimum sentences and fines. Georgia prosecutes drug trafficking charges harshly. Act quickly and contact the Atlanta criminal defense lawyers at Ghanayem & Rayasam so we can defend you from the charges you face. Schedule a consultation with our office today by calling (404) 561-0202 or completing the online form.