June 27, 2025
Arrested for Drug Possession in Georgia? Here’s What Happens Next
Arrested for Drug Possession in Georgia? What to Expect and How to Protect Your Rights
Summer brings more than just rising temperatures and weekend plans – it also sees an uptick in drug-related arrests across Georgia, especially in college towns and urban areas like Columbus. Whether you were stopped at a DUI checkpoint, pulled over during a road trip, or caught with a controlled substance at a party, a drug possession arrest can feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s crucial to understand your next steps and when to contact a trusted drug possession attorney in Columbus. Read on to learn what happens next – and how you can protect your rights.
What Counts as Drug Possession in Georgia?
In Georgia, drug possession charges can involve illegal narcotics (such as cocaine or methamphetamine), prescription drugs without a valid prescription, or even small amounts of marijuana. The severity of the charge depends on the type and quantity of the substance, and whether there’s evidence of intent to distribute.
There are two main types of possession charges:
- Simple possession: Having a small amount of a controlled substance for personal use.
- Possession with intent to distribute: Having a larger quantity, often accompanied by packaging materials, scales, or large sums of cash.
What Happens After You’re Arrested?
- Booking and Initial Appearance
After the arrest, you’ll be taken into custody for booking, where your personal information and fingerprints are recorded. You’ll likely appear before a judge within 48 to 72 hours for a bond hearing, unless it’s a weekend or holiday.
- Charges and Classification
Georgia classifies drugs into “schedules” based on their risk and medical use. Possession of Schedule I or II substances (like heroin or ecstasy) typically results in a felony, while small amounts of marijuana may be charged as a misdemeanor – though this depends heavily on prior offenses and local law enforcement practices.
- Potential Penalties
- Misdemeanor marijuana possession (under 1 oz): Up to 1 year in jail and/or up to $1,000 in fines.
- Felony drug possession: 1 to 15 years in prison depending on the drug and amount.
- Additional penalties may include probation, mandatory drug counseling, community service, and license suspension.
- Pre-Trial and Defense Strategy
This is where having a skilled criminal defense attorney becomes essential. Your lawyer will review the circumstances of your arrest – was the search legal? Were your rights violated? Is the evidence sufficient? The goal is often to negotiate reduced charges, diversion programs, or even case dismissal if there are flaws in the prosecution’s case.
- Going to Trial or Negotiating a Plea
If your case moves forward, you may be offered a plea deal, or you could choose to go to trial. Your Columbus criminal defense lawyer will advise you on the best course of action based on the evidence, possible defenses, and your personal situation.
Your Rights Matter Even After an Arrest
Being arrested does not mean you’re guilty. You still have constitutional rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. How you handle the first few days and weeks after a drug arrest can significantly impact your future.
Facing a Drug Possession Charge in Columbus? Call Clark Adams, Attorney at Law
If you or someone you love has been arrested for drug possession, time is critical. The sooner you speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of protecting your freedom and future. Clark Adams has years of experience fighting drug charges in Georgia and will personally guide you through every step of the legal process.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward defending your rights.