Weed, pot, grass, ganja, 420 – no matter what you call it, prosecutors call it illegal. Legalization is sweeping the nation, but in Georgia, possession of cannabis is still a crime. Despite the changing political climate, police are arresting people for possession of marijuana throughout Georgia every day. However, lawmakers view cannabis differently than other illegal drugs in Georgia. Therefore, there are several special rules that apply to possession of marijuana charges that can give you relief. Without the knowledge necessary to use those special provisions, you could end up with a misdemeanor or felony conviction on your criminal record. For that reason, getting an experienced drug attorney is the best course of action when dealing with any drug-related offense.
When Possession of Marijuana Is Illegal in Georgia
Possession of marijuana in Georgia is a felony by default. However, if the amount you possess is one ounce (1 oz) or less, then the offense is a misdemeanor. Georgia also has a very narrow exception which legalizes medically prescribed low THC oil. Unfortunately, this provision is rarely a valid defense to a possession charge. A few cities in Georgia have decriminalized possession of marijuana, but possession within those cities is still a violation of state law. Keep in mind that a citation holds the same weight and consequences as an arrest. A conviction for possession of marijuana will appear on your criminal record. Getting a drug lawyer can help reduce the impact of such a charge.
Defenses Unique to Possession of Marijuana
Despite Georgia’s strict rules on marijuana possession, marijuana convictions are generally not as harsh as other similar criminal charges. A criminal defense attorney can often negotiate to have a first-time misdemeanor marijuana arrest dismissed through a diversion program. These programs usually entail a fine, community service, and a drug evaluation during a period of supervision. Even when diversion is not an option, a skilled drug attorney can negotiate a sentence that will not go against your criminal record. In some cases, a skilled criminal defense attorney can even prevent a felony conviction. Where available, drug court and RSAT programs may provide additional relief.
Defense Attorneys at Lankford & Moore Law Can Help
The criminal defense lawyers at Lankford & Moore Law have helped many people overcome their drug charges. We handle the simplest misdemeanors all the way up to serious trafficking offenses. We know how to use the exceptions to the rules for drug arrests to get our clients out of trouble. Did you know that many drug arrests are invalid because the officer did something incorrect before he even found any drugs? Our drug lawyers know how to look for this information to prevent convictions. Get a free consultation with one of our attorneys to get ahead of your charges until legalization catches up.
