The state of Georgia has strict laws regarding the possession and distribution of dangerous and illegal drugs. If you were arrested and charged with any type of drug possession in the state of Georgia, an experienced defense attorney can help you understand your legal rights and plan your next steps. The following are the ways in which drugs and illegal substances are classified in the state of Wisconsin.
Classification of Illegal Drugs in the State of Georgia
The state of Georgia follows the same drug classification as federal law. This schedule appears as follows:
- Schedule I – Drugs with a high risk of dependency and abuse, and have no medicinal use (drugs include heroin, hallucinogens, PCP, mescaline, mushrooms, peyote, and LSD).
- Schedule II – Drugs with a high risk of dependency and abuse but also have some type of established and accepted medical use (drugs include oxycodone, fentanyl, morphine, hydrocodone, cocaine, methadone, and methamphetamines.
- Schedule III – Drugs with a more minimal risk of dependency and abuse and also have an established and accepted medical use (drugs include anabolic steroids, ketamine, barbiturates, some medicines containing codeine.
- Schedule IV – Drugs with low chance of dependency and abuse (drugs include sleep-aids such as Ambien and anti-anxiety medications) .
- Schedule V – Lowest risk drugs including some cough syrups and other drugs with minimal traces of codeine.
Possession of Narcotics and Illegal Drugs in Georgia
Law enforcement in the state of Georgia does not have to find drugs on the actual person in order to determine that he or she was in possession of an illegal substance. You can be arrested legally if law enforcement discovers an illegal substance listed above in your car, home, or simply within your reach. Additionally, the state of Georgia does not need to actually prove or provide evidence that you owned the illegal drugs, but rather that you simply had the ability to have it in your possession.
Consequences of Illegal Drug Possession in the State of Georgia
The drug laws and penalties for drug possession in the state of Georgia are legally complex and challenging. In many cases, the severity of the imposed sentence or fines will relate directly to the judge hearing your case or the county in which you were arrested. More dangerous drugs receive additional jail time and higher financial penalties. The laws regarding the charges and penalties of drug possession in Georgia will vary on a number of factors.
Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are facing charges regarding any illegal drug possession in the state of Georgia, you should visit with an experienced criminal defense attorney to help you through these complex legal matters and ensure your legal rights remain protected. Contact our experienced bankruptcy attorneys at Lankford & Moore Law to help you with your next steps.