Drug Trafficking Attorney in Gwinnett County

Your Advocate for Drug Trafficking Charges in Gwinnett County

When you or a loved one is facing drug trafficking charges in Gwinnett County, you need guidance from a team that understands both the law and the local legal landscape. At Crawford and Boyle, LLC, our drug trafficking lawyers in Gwinnett County have decades of prosecutorial and defense experience in the local courts.

Drug trafficking cases in Gwinnett County receive priority from both the Gwinnett County District Attorney’s Office and local law enforcement. These cases often involve joint investigations by multiple agencies, including the Gwinnett Metro Task Force and, at times, federal authorities. 

With major highways running through the area, the region has become a focal point for drug enforcement operations, which adds complexity and scrutiny to each case. We recognize these unique local challenges and provide honest, straightforward advice from the moment you call us, helping you avoid common missteps and preparing you for what lies ahead.

Facing a serious criminal charge? We offer free consultations. Call (678) 726-5400 or contact us online to speak with a drug trafficking attorney in Gwinnett County today.

Understanding Drug Trafficking Laws in Georgia

In Georgia, the crime of drug trafficking is defined under the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) § 16-13-31. This statute makes it a crime to knowingly possess, manufacture, deliver, or bring into the state a certain quantity of a controlled substance. 

Unlike a charge of possession with intent to sell, which requires the prosecution to prove your intent, a trafficking charge is a quantity-based offense. This means that if you are found with a certain amount of a specific drug, the law presumes you are trafficking it, regardless of your intent. We will meticulously analyze the specific statute and drug schedule under which you are charged to find any weaknesses in the prosecution's case.

The prosecution's case often relies on the testimony of law enforcement, confidential informants, and forensic experts. As a seasoned drug trafficking attorney in Gwinnett County, we will challenge the government's evidence at every turn, scrutinizing the methods used to collect and analyze the evidence and questioning the credibility of their witnesses.

Classifications and Penalties of the Drug Trafficking Offense in Gwinnett County

Georgia law categorizes drug trafficking offenses as felonies, with the classification and penalties dependent on the type and quantity of the drug involved. The penalties escalate with the amount of the controlled substance. A conviction for a drug trafficking offense can also be enhanced if the crime was committed in a drug-free zone, such as near a school, or if it involved a minor. 

A skilled Gwinnett County drug trafficking lawyer will work to prevent any enhancement of your charges and will fight for a resolution that minimizes the impact on your life.

Trafficking in Cocaine:

• 28-200 grams: 10 years mandatory minimum prison sentence, a fine of $50,000.
• 200-400 grams: 15 years mandatory minimum prison sentence, a fine of $100,000.
• 400 grams or more: 25 years mandatory minimum prison sentence, a fine of $1,000,000.

Trafficking in Marijuana:

• 10-2,000 pounds: 5 years mandatory minimum prison sentence, a fine of $100,000.
• 2,000-10,000 pounds: 7 years mandatory minimum prison sentence, a fine of $250,000.
• 10,000 pounds or more: 15 years mandatory minimum prison sentence, a fine of $1,000,000.

Trafficking in Methamphetamine:

• 28-200 grams: 10 years mandatory minimum prison sentence, a fine of $200,000.
• 200-400 grams: 15 years mandatory minimum prison sentence, a fine of $300,000.
• 400 grams or more: 25 years mandatory minimum prison sentence, a fine of $1,000,000.

These are just a few examples of the wide range of trafficking charges and penalties. It is important to note that a drug trafficking charge can be filed alongside other offenses, such as possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, or drug manufacturing. A knowledgeable drug trafficking attorney in Gwinnett County will work to prevent any enhancement of your charges and will fight for a resolution that minimizes the impact on your life.

Collateral Consequences

A criminal record for a drug offense can follow you for the rest of your life, making it incredibly difficult to find employment, obtain professional licenses, or secure housing. Many employers and professional licensing boards have zero-tolerance policies for these convictions, and landlords often deny rental applications to those with a criminal record.

Additionally, a felony conviction will result in a permanent ban on owning or possessing a firearm. For non-citizens, a conviction can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation. The social stigma attached to these crimes can also damage your reputation and personal relationships.

What to Expect When Facing Drug Trafficking Charges in Gwinnett County

If you or a loved one is under investigation or has been charged with drug trafficking in Gwinnett County, it’s important to understand how the legal process typically unfolds in the area:

• Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will quickly be brought before a magistrate judge in Gwinnett County to address issues like bond and the preliminary nature of your charges.
• Case Assignment: The local District Attorney’s Office formally reviews evidence and charges, assigning your case to the Gwinnett County Superior Court if sufficient evidence exists.
• Hearings & Discovery: Our attorneys request and review all discovery, including police reports, lab evidence, surveillance records, and other documentation. We often file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the search’s constitutionality.
• Plea Negotiations or Trial Preparation: We enter plea discussions with prosecutors when appropriate and prepare for trial by assembling evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis to support your defense.
• Local Law Enforcement Involvement: Drug investigations often include cooperation between Gwinnett County Police, the Metro Task Force, and even federal agencies. Our experience with these organizations allows us to critique their methods and ensure your rights are not violated.

The Importance of Local Experience in Drug Trafficking Cases

In Gwinnett County, drug trafficking cases sometimes overlap with federal investigations, particularly when large quantities or interstate activity are suspected. The involvement of agencies such as the DEA or GBI can further complicate the situation. Understanding how and when these agencies participate helps us anticipate procedural shifts and adapt our strategy.

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