Savannah Drug Possession Attorneys

Depend on Our Experienced & Personalized Legal Defense

Were you recently arrested for possession of a controlled substance in Savannah? A conviction for this type of crime can lead to long-term prison sentences and a permanent criminal record. The good news is that you do not have to face your charges on your own. The Lerch Law Firm is here to help you understand your charges, the potential punishments, and your options for defending your rights and freedom.

Should you take a plea bargain or fight your case at trial? Find out today by calling our Savannah possession defense lawyers at (912) 417-5008.

Georgia Controlled Substance Schedules

In Georgia, controlled substances are separated into five distinct “schedules” or lists of substances, as determined by federal law. The division is determined based on each drug's potential for abuse and dependence and whether it has any approved medicinal use.

The controlled substance schedules include:

• Schedule I drugs – Substances that have a high potential for abuse and no medical use. This includes drugs such as LSD, Ecstasy, and Heroin.
• Schedule II drugs – Substances with a high potential for abuse and dependence, but which also have a medical use. This includes drugs like Cocaine, Morphine, Codeine, and Amphetamine.
• Schedule III, IV, and V – Substances with progressively lower potential for abuse and addiction and which have been recognized as being medicinally beneficial. This includes CNS stimulates, anabolic steroids, Xanax, and over-the-counter medications.

Penalties for Possession of Controlled Substances

All controlled possession crimes are felonies, with the exception of those that involve small amounts of marijuana. The particular punishment for felony possession is determined by the type of drug involved. In addition, those who have previous drug-related convictions can incur harsher penalties.

The penalties for possession of a controlled substance include:

• Possession of a Schedule I or Schedule II drug — Having less than one gram (or one ml of a liquid) is punishable by a prison term between one to three years and having up to four grams or ml carries a prison term between one year and eight years
• Non-narcotic Schedule II substances — Having less than two grams or ml of a liquid is punishable by a prison sentence between one year and three years and having up to four grams or ml carries a prison term between one year and eight years
• Possession of Schedule III, IV, or V — Possession of any of these substances is punishable by a prison term between one and three years

How to Beat a Possession Charge in Georgia

Several potential defenses can be explored if you have been charged with possessing a controlled substance in Georgia. The most common defense is to challenge the officer's search and seizure methods or to question the identification of the drug. Other potential defenses include claiming that the substance was for medicinal or scientific use, or it could be argued that the accused did not possess the drug but had knowledge one was present. Our Savannah drug possession lawyer is experienced in drug crimes and can help determine your case's best defense.

Additionally, we can help you negotiate with the prosecution for lesser charges or reduced sentences. We may also be able to discuss alternative sentencing options, such as community service or rehab programs, which could result in the dismissal of the charge. We aim to protect your rights and strive to get you the best possible outcome for your case.

Conditional Discharges

If this is your first time being arrested for possession of a controlled substance, you might be able to obtain a conditional discharge. Instead of being sentenced to jail, a court may decide to impose a period of probation. If the terms of the probation are followed, and any additional requirements like attending a drug treatment program are met, your charges will be dismissed and will not be added to your record.

We Can Help Protect Your Future

At The Lerch Law Firm, our experienced criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to helping our clients achieve the best possible outcome. After we evaluate your case, our legal team can help you understand your rights and options during this time. Should you choose to work with us, we can mount a strong defense on your behalf to help get your charges reduced or dismissed.

To schedule a free case review with our Savannah drug possession attorneys, call (912) 417-5008 now.