Marijuana Possession With Intent to Distribute

If you were recently charged with Georgia marijuana distribution, the first thing you should do is to immediately contact an experienced marijuana distribution defense attorney. Whether you were charged with a state or federal marijuana distribution crime, a qualified marijuana attorney who specializes in this complex area of law can help you.

You should know that a marijuana distribution charge is a serious crime—one that can include harsh penalties upon conviction. Both state and federal governments are serious about cracking down on the war on drugs, which means they don’t tolerate the distribution of marijuana. This is why it’s imperative to hire a qualified defense attorney that has a dedicated practice to the defense of marijuana distribution.

If you were found with a large amount of marijuana, then the prosecution can claim that you were intending to distribute it to others even if this is not the case. But remember, the prosecution cannot just make this claim—they must back it up with evidence. It is their job to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that not only were you in possession of marijuana but that you were going to distribute it.

To be charged with possession of marijuana police don’t actually have to find it on you (for instance, in your pockets or purse). You can be charged with marijuana possession if the substance is accessible to you and a reasonable person would believe that you are aware of the substance. For example, if marijuana is found in one of your drawers in your home or if it is in the console of your car, you can be charged with marijuana possession.

What you may not realize is that a marijuana charge with the intent to distribute is a far more serious criminal act than marijuana possession. Also, if you were found to be in possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute it near a school, you will face enhanced penalties.

The penalties you will face for a marijuana distribution conviction depend entirely on the circumstances surrounding your case. Typically, state laws are very similar to federal laws as they pertain to marijuana distribution, however the penalties at the federal level are often much more serious. Also at the federal level, judges have specific guidelines when it comes to sentencing, resulting in less leeway.

Some of the penalties you could be facing for a first-offense marijuana distribution at the federal level are a jail sentence of up to five years and a fine up to $5,000 for having 1 to 49 marijuana plants. If this is a second offense for the same amount of plants, you could face 10 years to life in prison and the fine can be up to $4 million.

First and foremost, you have rights and are innocent until proven guilty. It’s very important to contact a defense attorney right away, especially if you haven’t been arrested or if you have been arrested but not yet charged. During this time, you have the right to seek legal counsel and you should not discuss your case further with police until a qualified defense attorney is present for questioning.

Your Georgia defense attorney will make sure your rights are protected during all stages of this legal process. Depending on your case, your lawyer may be able to have your charge reduced or even dismissed.