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Are Drug Crimes Common?
According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, arrests and charges for drug crimes throughout the U.S. have gone consistently up since 1992. Nationmaster.com argues that 560 drug charges will be filed for every 100,000 citizens living in the U.S.
What are Drug Schedules and Why Do They Matter?
When someone is convicted after being found guilty of committing a drug-related crime, the sentence severity depends heavily upon the "schedule" of drug they were involved with as part of the charge.
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Schedule I: These drugs are considered very easy to abuse and have no medical value, such as LSD or heroin.
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Schedule II: Drugs in this category are likely to be abused but can also be used for medical reasons - like amphetamines.
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Schedule III-V: These three categories include drugs often used for medical treatment and are less likely to be abused than Schedule II or I. Steroids and certain stimulants may fall under this category.
Felony Charges vs. Misdemeanor Charges
In Georgia, citizens can be charged with either felonies or misdemeanors. Being in possession of a Schedule I or Schedule II drug can result in a felony charge of "possession of a controlled substance." Depending upon the type of drug and the amount found, you could face up to 10 years in federal prison.
In contrast, being charged with possessing less than an ounce of marijuana will result in a misdemeanor charge. Though less severe than a felony, it can still interfere with your life by causing you to lose your license, spend up to a year in county jail, and pay hefty fines.
Charged with a Drug Crime? Call (404) 471-3177
If you have been charged with a drug-related crime in Georgia, talking to an experienced Atlanta criminal defense attorney can help you get the best possible outcome. Contact Nick Lotito & Seth Kirschenbaum by calling (404) 471-3177 or visiting our website to schedule a consultation.