Georgia Illegal Possession of Prescription Drugs
Prescription drugs are used to treat a valid medical condition or sickness. When prescription medication falls into the hands of a person for whom it is not intended, it can result in a Georgia illegal possession of prescription drugs charge. Whether a person obtains prescription medication through fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation, the potential penalties could include incarceration, probation, large fines, and community service.
Common prescription drugs that are obtained illegally include oxycodone (Percocet), hydrocodone (Vicodin), benzodiazepines (Valium), opium, morphine, methylphenidates (Adderal), and amphetamines.
Illegal Possession of Prescription Drugs Charges
A person who is found with prescription drugs that were not prescribed for himself/herself or drugs that were obtained by using a false prescription can be charged with illegal possession. Possessing a small amount of medication for personal consumption is classified as “simple possession,” while possessing a larger quantity could be considered “possession with intent to distribute.”
The penalties for simple possession could include jail time and fines; however, some first offenders are eligible to undergo a drug diversion program in lieu of incarceration. Those who are given the opportunity to attend a drug diversion program as part of their sentence could face jail time if they fail to complete it. Habitual offenders are subject to tougher penalties and may be denied the option to complete a drug diversion program.
Georgia takes prescription drug offenses seriously. Intent to distribute is classified as a felony offense, and could lead to prison time in addition to expensive fines. Once the prison sentence has been completed, the offender is generally placed on probation.
If convicted of possession of illegal prescription drugs in Georgia, you will be burdened with a criminal record. This record can be accessed by third parties, which may make applying for jobs, loans, and housing difficult. If convicted of felony possession, you may even be ineligible for employment in certain sectors, such as education and government agencies.
Being arrested for illegal prescription drug possession doesn’t necessarily mean it will lead to a conviction. An attorney who is experienced with this type of defense will examine your case to determine whether the search and seizure was legal. If it was not, any evidence obtained may be suppressed, weakening the prosecution’s case against you.
To learn more about how to fight a Georgia possession of illegal prescription medication charge, speak to a skilled defense attorney today.
