Landing in serious trouble with the law can have long-lasting consequences. You may have tried to keep your life on the straight and narrow, but various circumstances may have led you off course. You may have told yourself time and time again that you would get back on track, but unfortunately, you were not able to do so before you came under the radar of law enforcement.
Now, you stand accused of serious drug-related charges in Georgia. You may undoubtedly worry that these accusations may ruin your future, but you may want to keep in mind that you have the right to defend against any allegations brought against you, including those for drug trafficking.
Understanding the charges
Drug trafficking is among the most serious drug-related charges that a person could face. In Georgia, if authorities suspect that you were manufacturing and selling controlled substances, it is possible that you could face trafficking charges. In some cases, the amount of the substance in a person’s possession could determine whether trafficking charges apply. However, authorities typically calculate the amount on a per-case basis as investigators look at the substance and whether it has impurities and suspensions.
State drug trafficking laws also look at the type of substance involved when determining the severity of charges. Substances are categorized from Schedule I to Schedule V, with Schedule I being the most serious. If authorities believe that you were trafficking a Schedule I or Schedule II drug, you could face anywhere from five to 30 years in prison or more for subsequent offenses. If Schedule III-V drugs are involved, you could face one to 10 years in prison.
Serious accusations
The state considers drug trafficking a felony, so you will face a serious predicament if these charges come against you. Fortunately, you do not have to struggle with handling the allegations on your own. You have legal rights that include having the help of an attorney.
You may want to take the time to thoroughly review your criminal defense options in hopes of finding the best course of action for your particular case. It can be difficult to put up a good front during such a trying time, but you may want to remember that you are innocent until — and only if — proven guilty in a court of law.