Synthetic Marijuana Laws in Georgia
Lately there has been a rapid rise in the use of synthetic marijuana products in Georgia and all over the country. Products like Spice (Spiz), K2, Haze and Black Mamba are marketed as “legal weed” and “undetectable by blood tests”. Many people have been lured into using these products because of these claims. I felt that there was a need to clear up some of the misconceptions going around and highlight the laws and penalties for synthetic marijuana in Georgia.
Far From a “Legal” High
A single packet of synthetic marijuana can land you in jail for a decade.
Don’t be fooled by shady shopkeepers and internet sites, Synthetic Marijuana products are illegal in Georgia.
For years there has been a cat-and-mouse game going on between lawmakers and the manufacturers of these products. Lawmakers would ban a list of substances found in synthetic marijuana products and companies would change the chemical compounds to elude the ban.
On May 27 of this year SB 370 was signed into law. This law defines the chemicals in synthetic marijuana as Schedule I drugs. Schedule I is the highest classification for controlled substances and even simple possession of a small amount is charged as a felony. Additionally, a number of executive orders and emergency bills has been enacted to ban additional synthetic marijuana formulas.
The Penalties for Synthetic Marijuana in Georgia
As mentioned above, even simple possession of synthetic marijuana is considered a felony. The penalties are listed below:
Simple Possession: Even a single packet of Spice or K2 could lead to very serious penalties.
- 1st Offense- From 2-15 years in jail
- Subsequent Offense- From 5-30 years in jail
Possession with the Intent to Distribute: Selling or giving a drug is a more serious charge than simple possession. PWI penalties for synthetic marijuana are as follows:
- 1st Offense- From 5-30 years in jail
- Subsequent Offense- From 10-life in jail
What You Should Do if Charged for a Synthetic Marijuana Crime
If you are arrested for a crime involving synthetic marijuana, we should seek professional legal counsel. Attorney Doug Chanco is an experienced criminal defense attorney who has seen both sides of drug cases as a Fulton County prosecutor and as a Atlanta criminal defense lawyer. He will explore Every legal avenue to defend your case.
The unfortunate part is that many of those arrested for these crimes are teenagers and young adults. Spending several years in jail can alter their lives forever and ruin their educational and professional opportunities (who wants to hire a convicted felon?). We understand these concerns and will fight to preserve your life and your future.
Call 1-855-9-ATL-DUI for a free consultation.
August 6th, 2012 at 7:44 pm
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