Marietta Marijuana Defense Lawyer

Marietta Marijuana Defense Attorney

Marietta residents charged with marijuana-related offenses face serious legal consequences, despite shifting public views on cannabis. Under Georgia law, people who possess, distribute, or grow marijuana face criminal charges, which may result in fines, license revocation, and/or incarceration. It is vital to engage an experienced Marietta marijuana defense lawyer, regardless of whether you face misdemeanor possession charges or felony trafficking allegations.

The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman delivers forceful and tactical legal representation to people charged with marijuana offenses across Cobb County. Lawrence J. Zimmerman’s extensive experience with important drug crime cases equips him to contest evidence, pursue favorable resolutions, and safeguard your future.

Understanding Georgia’s Marijuana Laws

Under Georgia law, marijuana possession remains a criminal offense. A person who has a drug possession of less than one ounce of marijuana faces misdemeanor charges that can lead to up to 12 months of jail time and a $1,000 fine. Having more than one ounce of marijuana results in felony charges that carry prison sentences ranging from one to ten years. Georgia does not permit recreational marijuana use and imposes strict regulations on medical marijuana.

Many defendants do not realize that possession of drug-related paraphernalia or even small traces can result in legal charges. Understanding the particular law you face charges under is essential. Lawrence J. Zimmerman can explain the details of your charges and develop defense strategies to reduce future penalties.

Common Marijuana Charges in Cobb County

In Marietta and throughout Cobb County, marijuana-related arrests are not uncommon, especially near Kennesaw State University or during routine traffic stops on I-75. Local police departments regularly press charges against individuals for possession of drugs, the intent to distribute, or trafficking.

When authorities discover cash or drug paraphernalia, such as scales or baggies, along with small amounts of drugs, they will file more severe charges. Drug cases are aggressively prosecuted in Cobb County courts, including the Cobb County Superior Court on Haynes Street.

Defense attorneys can sometimes get charges reduced or dismissed, as prosecutors typically seek to resolve some of these cases through plea agreements. Throughout Cobb and DeKalb Counties, Lawrence J. Zimmerman has a history of successfully defending drug charge clients through a strong knowledge of the Georgia drug law and the local court system.

Marijuana Arrest Statistics

Although cannabis reform efforts continue to gain traction, Georgia’s law enforcement agencies conduct thousands of marijuana-related arrests each year, which negatively affect Marietta’s crime rate and criminal records. Nationwide, the FBI reported 217,150 marijuana-related arrests in 2023, with 84% for possession, often under one ounce (a misdemeanor in Georgia).

Young adults and students bear the brunt of these arrests, which can permanently damage their criminal records for minor offenses. Employment opportunities, educational prospects, and housing options can be negatively impacted by any conviction, even for minor offenses. Defense strategies should focus on questioning the evidence and moving for case dismissal in these legal situations.

What to Do If You’re Arrested for Marijuana in Marietta

If you are arrested on marijuana-related charges, remain calm and do not make any statements to the officers, aside from your name. You should avoid providing explanations or justifications for your situation because all your words might serve as evidence in your legal case. Maintain your right to silence, and ask for legal representation without delay.

Make detailed notes about your arrest experience immediately after you get released from custody. Your account should cover both the officer’s behavior and any search methods used. The arrest process in Cobb County moves swiftly, usually starting in the Magistrate Court. Get in touch with an experienced marijuana defense lawyer immediately. They can assert your rights and develop a strong legal defense.

FAQs

Q: Is Marijuana Still Illegal in Georgia?

A: Yes, Georgia prohibits recreational marijuana use. Having less than one ounce of marijuana results in a misdemeanor charge, and possession of over one ounce leads to felony charges. Carrying minimal quantities of marijuana can result in arrest and imprisonment. Marietta and Cobb County maintain strict adherence to state laws. When facing charges, it is essential to seek advice from a defense attorney since convictions often result in long-lasting effects.

Q: Can I Be Arrested for Having Just a Small Amount?

A: Yes, Georgia law makes it a criminal act to possess any quantity of marijuana, regardless of whether it is less than an ounce. A misdemeanor conviction can result in 12 months of prison time, fines, and probation. It can also result in a permanent criminal record. The police can charge you with intent to distribute if they find items such as money or measuring scales alongside the marijuana.

Q: Will a Marijuana Charge Go on My Record?

A: A marijuana conviction will result in a criminal record entry. A marijuana charge on your criminal record may affect your ability to obtain employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Georgia offers conditional discharge and pretrial diversion alternatives for first-time offenders to help them avoid permanent criminal records. An attorney can evaluate your qualifications for these programs and advocate for the optimal outcome.

Q: Should I Hire a Lawyer for a First Offense?

A: A first offense still requires legal representation since even the first marijuana charge can result in jail time, monetary penalties, and permanent criminal records. Securing legal representation from the beginning can be crucial. A defense attorney with experience can secure lesser charges or dismissal, or they can arrange for clients to enter diversion programs.

Contact a Marietta Marijuana Defense Lawyer

Marietta’s marijuana charges carry severe legal and personal risks, even for individuals facing their first criminal charges. The consequences of misdemeanor possession and felony distribution charges are severe because your liberty, criminal record, and future prospects are all at risk.

Our legal team at The Law Office of Lawrence J. Zimmerman combines extensive criminal defense experience with skilled knowledge of Georgia drug laws. Mr. Zimmerman can defend your rights while actively contesting insufficient evidence to achieve the most favorable results possible.

You shouldn’t face these charges by yourself, so reach out to us now. After an initial case review, we can begin crafting your defense strategy.