What Are the Drug Trafficking Penalties in Georgia? 2024

It can be hard to properly prepare for a drug trafficking charge, but it is important to understand what laws and regulations apply and offer you protection as the defendant. If you are wondering, “What are the drug trafficking penalties in Georgia?” a drug crime attorney can help answer your question.

Drug Trafficking Penalties in Georgia

Drug trafficking is handled very strictly and is one of the most serious types of drug-related offenses. Since drug trafficking often involves transporting drugs over state lines, these crimes are frequently charged on the federal level.

The specific penalties will hinge on the type of drug and amount involved, but they can range from five to 25 years or more in prison, as well as fines that can go into the millions. Below is a general breakdown of some of the federal drug trafficking penalties for the different types of controlled substances:

• Cocaine Trafficking: Cocaine trafficking penalties are based on the amount of grams that are trafficked. Below 200 grams, there is typically a minimum of 10 years in prison and a potential fine of $200,000. Above 200 grams all the way to 400 grams, there is a minimum of 15 years in prison with a potential of a $300,000 fine. For more than 400 grams of cocaine, the penalties will increase depending on the specific amount.
• Marijuana Trafficking: Marijuana trafficking penalties are dependent on the amount of pounds being trafficked. From 10 pounds to 2,000 pounds, the minimum prison sentence is five years and a potential fine of $100,000. From 2,000 pounds to 10,000 pounds, the minimum prison sentence is seven years and a fine of $250,000. Beyond 10,000 pounds of marijuana, the prison sentence and fine amount continue to rise.
• Heroin Trafficking: Heroin trafficking penalties are based on the weight in grams being trafficked, but the penalties associated with the number of grams will be different from what you find with cocaine, which is also measured in grams.

Four to 14 grams of heroin being trafficked can lead to a minimum of five years in prison and a minimum fine of $50,000, and 14 to 28 grams of heroin can lead to a minimum of 10 years in prison with a $100,000 fine. Beyond 28 grams of heroin, the penalties rise to a minimum of 25 years and a fine of $500,000.

It is important to keep in mind that a larger amount of drugs trafficked tends to lead to stricter penalties. In addition, different types of drugs have varying thresholds for trafficking charges, as well as penalties. If an individual has prior convictions, even more serious penalties with harsher minimum sentences are possible.

Why You Need Legal Support When Facing Drug Trafficking Charges

Drug trafficking charges can lead to serious long-term impacts such as imprisonment, high fines, and a permanent criminal record. Having solid legal support when you are facing these potentially serious penalties is essential to protecting your rights, potentially reducing the severity of the penalties, and putting forth a strong defense. The stakes are massively high, so understanding how a drug crime lawyer can help is essential.

A drug crime lawyer understands the complex terms and details of drug trafficking laws in Georgia that can heavily impact your case. They can explain complex laws that you may struggle to understand.

Lawyers may develop a strong legal strategy to fight for your acquittal in court. They can also negotiate lesser charges in some cases, if appropriate. They may be able to reduce trafficking charges to possession charges or other lesser charges with a lighter penalty. They can do this by negotiating and presenting your case strategically, as well as exposing weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

FAQs

What Is the Minimum Sentence for Drug Trafficking?

The minimum sentence for drug trafficking is five years. It is helpful to keep in mind that the sentences for drug trafficking vary based on the type of drug, the amount of that drug that is getting trafficked, and how many previous offenses an individual may have had. Drug trafficking does not only come with prison time but also large fines.

Can You Get Probation for Drug Trafficking in Georgia?

You can get probation for drug trafficking in Georgia under certain circumstances, but it is typically rare to receive probation. Some defendants may qualify for the First Offender Act, which allows individuals who have no prior conviction of a felony to avoid a permanent criminal record if they complete their probation period. There are also cases where a defendant negotiates a plea deal that exchanges cooperation for the possibility of probation.

How Do You Beat a Drug Trafficking Charge in Georgia?

Beating a drug trafficking charge in Georgia, while difficult, is not impossible if you seek out the support of a trusted drug crime lawyer. Georgia has strict drug laws and mandatory minimum sentences, but there are legal strategies to employ to challenge the charges against you. The success of the defense strategies hinges on the case’s specific circumstances.

Is It Helpful to Hire a Drug Trafficking Lawyer in Georgia?

Yes. It can be extremely helpful to get the help of a drug trafficking lawyer in Georgia. The laws that govern drug trafficking are strict and require the insight of an experienced lawyer to understand and navigate in a court setting. A lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options as well as representation in court, which is essential to seeing a fair and just result in your case.

Contact a Trusted Drug Crime Attorney in Georgia Today

If you are facing drug trafficking accusations, it is essential to speak with a trusted drug crime attorney to fight for a positive result in your case. Reach out today to set up a consultation and learn how the team at Miller North & Brill can help you. Do not hesitate to take the first step toward protecting yourself with quality legal representation.