Because heroin is a dangerous and highly addictive drug, possession of heroin is a serious crime under Georgia law. Under Georgia law, heroin is classified as a Schedule I drug. Schedule I drugs are the most serious type of drug under Georgia law because of their highly addictive nature and lack of medical use. Possession of a Schedule I drug is punished more severely than possession of a less serious type of drug. Additionally, depending upon the quantity of heroin in your possession, you could be charged with possession with the intent to distribute which carries an even higher penalty than a simple possession charge.
What is possession of heroin?
If you are arrested with any amount of heroin in your possession, you can be charged with possession of heroin. Under Georgia law, possession of heroin—even if you have no prior criminal history—is a felony. Depending upon both the amount of heroin in your possession as well as the specific facts and circumstances of your case, you can also be charged with possession of heroin with the intent to distribute or you can be charged with trafficking heroin. Both of these charges are felonies that carry a more severe punishment than a simple possession of heroin charge.
What is the penalty for possession of heroin?
For a first-time possession of heroin charge, you will be facing a minimum of one year in prison. In the event that you’re convicted of manufacturing, selling or possessing heroin with the intent to distribute, you will be facing a minimum of five years in prison for a first offense. A second conviction for manufacturing, selling or possessing heroin with the intent to distribute carries a minimum ten-year prison sentence, and the maximum punishment is life imprisonment.
In addition to prison time, you will also be faced with a hefty fine as well as drug counseling, probation and community service. Additionally, you will be a convicted felon with a felony drug conviction on your permanent criminal record that is accessible to anyone who runs a background check on you. In other words, the impact of a possession of heroin conviction will impact you for the rest of your life. Protect your future! Call the experienced criminal defense attorneys at The Turner Firm for a free consultation today.