If you’re arrested with methamphetamine (“meth”) in your possession, you could be charged with simple possession of methamphetamine or the more serious charge of possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Georgia law imposes harsh penalties on crimes involving methamphetamine because of the highly addictive nature of methamphetamine-based drugs. You could even be arrested and charged with a methamphetamine crime if police find drug paraphernalia or equipment that is commonly used to manufacture methamphetamine.
What is methamphetamine?
Methamphetamine is commonly known as meth, chalk, ice and crystal. It is a man-made crystalline powder that is highly addictive. It can be ingested orally, smoked, snorted or injected with a needle.
What are the penalties for methamphetamine possession?
Under Georgia law, the possession of any amount of methamphetamine is a felony. That is to say, there is no misdemeanor charge for methamphetamine in Georgia. A simple methamphetamine charge carries a prison sentence of two to 30 years. The prison time and other penalties increase significantly for a possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute charge and can include a fine in excess of $10,000.
What is the difference between possession of methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute?
Possession of a small amount of methamphetamine typically results in a simple possession of methamphetamine charge. However, if you have more than a small amount of methamphetamine in your possession, you can be charged with possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute even if you never intended to sell the drug.
How do I fight a methamphetamine charge?
If you’ve been charged with possession of methamphetamine or possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, you are facing some serious penalties and consequences. Having a felony drug conviction on your criminal record will impact you for the rest of your life and can disqualify you from various opportunities that you would otherwise enjoy. The skilled criminal defense attorneys of The Turner Firm can fight for your rights and protect your future. We’re available 24 hours a day to answer any questions you may have about your case. Call us today for a free evaluation of your case!