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Heroin Laws in Georgia

On Behalf of | May 2, 2023 | Criminal Defense |

Heroin is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in Georgia. The state defines Schedule I drugs and substances with high potential for abuse that are not currently acceptable for medical use in the U.S. and are unsafe even with medical supervision. Heroin is one of several opium derivatives classified as Schedule I controlled substances. Unless the law states otherwise, it is unlawful to possess, purchase, control, manufacture, distribute, deliver or sell a controlled substance in Georgia.

Georgia laws on heroin

Purchasing, possessing or controlling a Schedule I or narcotic Schedule II controlled substance is a felony in Georgia. A conviction for this felony offense warrants a sentence of two to 15 years. Subsequent convictions require mandatory sentencing ranging from 5 to 30 years. Manufacturing, distributing, delivering, selling or possessing a Schedule I or Schedule II with the intent to sell qualifies as a felony warranting five to 30 years. Convictions for subsequent offenses require 10 to 40 years, or life, in prison.

More on heroin laws in Georgia

In Georgia, anyone who knowingly manufactures, sells, possesses at least four grams or brings heroin, or other opiate derivatives, into the state may be charged with felony trafficking. If the amount is less than 14 grams, the fines are $50,000 and the mandatory minimum sentence is five years. If the amount ranges between 14 and 28 grams, the fines are $100,000 and the mandatory sentencing is 10 years minimum. Criminal defense may help negotiate for more favorable sentencing.

When the quantity exceeds 28 grams, the fine is $500,000, with a minimum sentence of 25 years in prison. The federal government also classifies heroin as a Schedule I controlled substance. The penalties for the first offense of federal trafficking include five to 40 years in prison and up to $5 million in fines.

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