Douglas County Drug Trafficking Attorneys

Providing the Experienced Legal Defense You Need

In Georgia, drug trafficking is generally defined as selling, making, delivering, possessing, or bringing into the state a controlled substance. The specific elements of this offense vary depending on the type and amount of drug in question. The state vigorously prosecutes and harshly penalizes drug trafficking crimes. If you are convicted, you could face years in prison and steep fines, which could affect you for the rest of your life.

Because of the life-altering consequences of a conviction, it is imperative to hire a skilled defense attorney who can fight the charges brought against you. At Howard Law Group, we have years of legal experience and know how to build effective strategies focused on obtaining favorable results.

To speak with our Douglas County drug trafficking attorney, call us at (678) 922-9743 or contact us online now.

Potential Conviction Penalties in Georgia

Drug trafficking charges are felonies, and the punishments you could face depend on the amount the drug you are accused of having. Here are some examples of potential penalties:

Marijuana Trafficking

• Less than 10 pounds: Minimum of 1 year and maximum of 5 years in prison.
• 10 to 100 pounds: Minimum of 5 years and maximum of 10 years.
• Over 100 pounds: Minimum of 10 years and maximum of 20 years.

Cocaine Trafficking

• Less than 28 grams: Minimum of 5 years and maximum of 10 years in prison.
• 28 grams to 200 grams: Minimum of 10 years and maximum of 20 years.
• Over 200 grams: Minimum of 15 years and maximum of 30 years.

Heroin Trafficking

• Less than 4 grams: Minimum of 5 years and maximum of 10 years in prison.
• 4 grams to 14 grams: Minimum of 10 years and maximum of 20 years.
• Over 14 grams: Minimum of 15 years and maximum of 30 years.

Methamphetamine Trafficking

• Less than 28 grams: Minimum of 5 years and maximum of 10 years in prison.
• 28 grams to 200 grams: Minimum of 10 years and maximum of 20 years.
• Over 200 grams: Minimum of 15 years and maximum of 30 years.

Other Controlled Substances

• Trafficking in other controlled substances (like prescription drugs) can also lead to similar penalties, often depending on the amount involved.

Serving time in prison and paying a fine could put a strain on your relationships and finances. A conviction will also show up on your criminal record, making it difficult to obtain housing, get a job, or even attend school.

Common Defenses for Drug Trafficking Charges

When facing drug trafficking charges, having a knowledgeable attorney is vital to crafting a strong defense. Common defenses include challenging the legality of the search and seizure that led to your arrest, which could render evidence inadmissible in court.

Demonstrating a lack of knowledge about the presence of drugs can also be a compelling argument, as can proving mistaken identity or entrapment. Additionally, issues like chain of custody violations and insufficient evidence can undermine the prosecution's case.

Our team at Howard Law Group is well-versed in these defenses and is dedicated to thoroughly investigating the specifics of your situation to ensure your rights are protected. We pride ourselves on developing personalized defense strategies tailored to your unique circumstances.

Trust Our Douglas County Drug Trafficking Lawyers to Handle Your Case

Navigating the complexities of drug trafficking charges without skilled legal representation can be perilous. Prosecutors often build strong cases based on various factors, including evidence collected during traffic stops, wiretaps, or informant testimonies. Having seasoned drug trafficking attorneys in Douglas County by your side can significantly alter the course of your case.

At Howard Law Group, we provide aggressive defense as we work toward getting your charges reduced or dropped to minimize the impact of a conviction on your life. Our Douglas County drug trafficking attorneys will conduct a detailed investigation of your situation to gather evidence that challenges the prosecution’s case against you.

If you are facing charges, retain superior legal counsel by calling us at (678) 922-9743 or contacting us online.

Commonly Asked Questions

Is There a Difference Between Drug Trafficking and Possession?

Yes, drug trafficking involves the distribution or sale of controlled substances, while possession typically refers to having drugs for personal use. The penalties for trafficking are generally much more severe.

Can I Be Charged with Drug Trafficking If I Only Possessed a Small Amount?

Yes, you can still face trafficking charges if the amount exceeds certain thresholds set by Georgia law. Even small amounts of certain drugs can lead to serious charges if the prosecution can prove intent to distribute.

What Types of Evidence are Commonly Used in Drug Trafficking Cases?

Evidence may include physical drugs, surveillance footage, witness testimonies, wiretaps, and financial records indicating drug sales or transactions.

What if the Drugs Were Found in My Vehicle But Don’t Belong to Me?

If drugs are found in your vehicle, the prosecution must prove that you had knowledge of the drugs and intended to distribute them.

Are There Alternatives to Incarceration For Drug Trafficking Offenders?

In some situations, options like rehabilitation programs, probation, or diversion programs may be available, especially for first-time offenders. A Douglas County attorney can help explore these alternatives.