Athens Drug Crime Lawyer

Athens Drug Crime Attorney

If you’ve been accused of involvement in a drug offense, such as possession or distribution, don’t hesitate to consult a skilled Athens drug crime lawyer right away. A lawyer can protect your rights and ensure you don’t unintentionally incriminate yourself during interactions with law enforcement.

At The Fleming Firm, headed by experienced attorney Preston Fleming, we believe in showing compassion and empathy to our clients. We are here to provide your case the time and attention it deserves and keep you consistently updated on any developments in your case. If you are seeking a capable Athens drug crime attorney, you can feel confident in the professional team at The Fleming Firm.

When to Hire a Drug Crime Lawyer

Drug crime laws can be confusing since there are various types of offenses that you may be charged with. If you have been accused of or arrested for any of the following crimes, you should hire a drug crime lawyer to review the details of your case:

• Possession. Drug possession is arguably the most common drug charge and involves the accused being in possession of an illicit or controlled substance. The crime of possession doesn’t include individuals who have a valid prescription for certain controlled drugs.
• Manufacturing. It is against Georgia law for a person to take part in any activity involving the production or cultivation of illegal drugs. Various circumstances may be subject to manufacturing charges, such as the discovery of a methamphetamine lab or an illegal cannabis farm.
• Distribution. This offense consists of an individual selling or delivering illicit drugs to another person. Another charge is the intent to distribute if it’s believed that the defendant was planning to distribute, based on a large amount of substances.
• Trafficking. The unlawful transportation of illegal or controlled drugs is known as trafficking, whether for personal use or with the intent to distribute.
• Paraphernalia. Even if a person is found with drug paraphernalia but not actual substances, they may be charged. Paraphernalia are any items used in the manufacturing, storing, hiding, or consumption of illicit drugs.

Across the country, nearly 30 percent of sentenced individuals were convicted of a drug-related offense in fiscal year 2023. In Georgia, about 37 percent of sentenced individuals were found guilty of a drug crime. Of the federal drug cases in Georgia that year, 65 percent involved methamphetamines, followed by nearly 13 percent of cases involving powder cocaine.

Drug crime cases in Athens are most likely to be handled by the Clarke County Courthouse, located at 325 East Washington Street, Athens, GA 30601. However, the legal venue can change depending on where the alleged crime took place and other factors relevant to your case. To find out which courthouse may process your case, be sure to consult your defense attorney.

FAQs

What Are Examples of Drug Charges in Georgia?

In the state of Georgia, there are multiple drug charges that you may face. Drug possession is one of the most common of these charges and involves the accused person being found with illicit or controlled substances. Drug manufacturing consists of any unlawful activity involving the production or cultivation of illegal drugs.

Distribution is a drug charge where someone sells or delivers illegal drugs, whereas trafficking involves transporting controlled substances. Paraphernalia charges include being found with items associated with drugs.

What Are the Penalties for a Drug Crime in GA?

The legal penalties for a drug crime in Georgia can depend on various factors. Details that can impact the penalties upon being convicted of a drug crime include the type of drug offense, the type of substances involved, the amount of drugs involved, whether you have a history of similar convictions, and other factors of your case. In most drug crime cases, penalties typically include a large fine, a jail or prison sentence, suspension of your driver’s license, and more.

How Much Does a Drug Crime Attorney Cost in GA?

In Georgia, the cost to hire a drug crime attorney can vary. Some influencing factors include the case’s complexity, the quality of your legal presentation, the lawyer’s fee structure, and whether additional expenses are needed to acquire effective evidence.

Complex defense cases, such as when there is little evidence available, often require more time and effort from your lawyer. Complicated cases tend to result in higher lawyer fees. Be sure to ask your attorney about their estimated fees.

Do I Need a Drug Crime Defense Lawyer in Georgia?

While you are not required to hire a drug crime defense lawyer in Georgia, it is strongly recommended that you work with a knowledgeable and professional defense attorney. If you think there’s no point in fighting the drug charges against you, you should still consult a lawyer because they can potentially reduce the charges, minimize penalties, or even get the case dismissed altogether. Your defense attorney is there to protect your rights and guide you throughout the criminal process.

How Long Does a Drug Crime Case Take in Georgia?

It’s difficult to estimate how long a drug crime case may take to resolve because each case is unique. The timeline for drug crime cases can vary quite a bit depending on the severity of the offense, how complex the case is, the evidence available, whether there are court delays, and other critical details. Generally, a drug violation case may take anywhere from a few months to a year or longer. You can ask your lawyer for a time estimate.

Drug Crime Lawyer Ready to Defend You

Whether this is your first criminal charge or you’ve been convicted of a drug offense before, you have the ability to take action and aim for a positive outcome to your case. Reach out to the team at The Fleming Firm to schedule a meeting with an experienced and professional drug crime defense attorney. We can answer any questions you have, address your legal concerns, and begin building a strong defense case on your behalf.