Savannah Drug Possession Lawyers

A drug possession charge can seem simple at first, but Georgia law does not treat every case the same way. The substance involved, the amount police say they found, and where the drugs were located can all change the seriousness of the charge.

Some possession cases are misdemeanors. Others are felonies that can carry prison time. Phillips Carson Phillips represents people facing drug charges in Savannah and looks closely at both the evidence and the way police obtained it.

What Georgia Law Says About Drug Possession Charges

Georgia law generally makes it illegal to possess or control a controlled substance without legal authorization. The state still has to prove the drugs were actually yours or that you had control over them.

How the Type and Amount of Drugs Can Affect Your Case

Georgia divides controlled substances into schedules, and the penalties vary depending on what was allegedly found. Possession of many Schedule I and II substances is charged as a felony. Schedule III, IV, and V drugs can also lead to felony charges.

Marijuana is treated somewhat differently. Possession of one ounce or less is generally a misdemeanor in Georgia. Larger amounts can lead to more serious charges. Weight becomes even more important when the amount reaches one of Georgia’s drug trafficking thresholds. At that point, the potential penalties can increase sharply.

Penalties You May Face After a Drug Possession Conviction

The sentence depends on the substance, the amount, and your criminal history. Possession of Schedule I and certain Schedule II drugs can carry prison sentences ranging from one to 15 years depending on weight. Possession of Schedule III, IV, or V controlled substances generally carries a possible one-to-three-year sentence for a first or second offense.

Prior convictions can increase the risk. Before making decisions about a plea or other resolution, it is worth knowing exactly what offense you are facing and what the sentencing range actually is.

How Police Searches and Seized Evidence Can Be Challenged

Drug possession cases often turn on the search. Maybe police found the drugs after stopping your car. Maybe officers searched your home, your bag, or your clothing. In each situation, there are limits on what police can legally do.

Your attorney can look at why the stop happened, whether officers had a warrant, whether the warrant covered the area they searched, and whether any claimed consent was actually violated. Contact Phillips Carson Phillips today by calling (912) 232-0081 for a free consultation.