Many Georgia residents experiment with drugs at some point in their life, even if it is just once. Not everyone gets caught, but some do, and the criminal charges they end up facing can have some devastating effects. If you’ve found yourself facing drug-related charges for the first time, you probably have a lot of questions and concerns about what this will mean for your future. Thankfully, you have the right to turn to an experienced criminal defense attorney who will be able to answer any of your questions and help you fight for the best outcome possible.
What happens if I’m convicted?
Georgia is one state where mandatory minimum sentencing does exist for certain drug crimes. If convicted, you may find yourself spending time behind bars and having to pay hefty fines — among other consequences. Legal counsel will have the ability to review the finer details of your case and let you know what you are looking at if you are convicted.
Are there alternatives to jail time?
The state does understand that not everyone accused of drug-related crimes will benefit from incarceration. Rehabilitation programs exist to help those who qualify break their drug dependency and stay out of jail. It is also less expensive to put a person through rehabilitation than it is to keep them incarcerated. So, it is a win-win for the accused and the state.
Will this follow me forever?
Drug-related charges, even for a first offense, can follow you forever if you are convicted, negatively affecting your life in numerous ways. Under the right circumstances, you may file for an expungement. This is something legal counsel can go over with you and help you with if it is something for which you qualify. To learn more about drug charges and how legal counsel can help you fight such charges, please take a moment and visit our firm’s website.