Fentanyl Lawyer In Richmond, County Georgia
Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, has significantly contributed to the opioid crisis across the United States. Given the severe legal consequences associated with its possession, distribution and trafficking, individuals facing fentanyl-related charges need the experience of a seasoned lawyer for the best possible outcome. This includes pre-indictment, trial and filing for appeals.
Claridge Law Firm LLC is dedicated to helping clients throughout Augusta, Georgia, find solutions to their legal problems, including drug crime charges. We offer aggressive representation with integrity. When working with us, your case will be thoroughly investigated. We use our knowledge and experience to obtain the best possible outcome.
Search And Seizure In Fentanyl Cases
Search and seizure laws are vital in Georgia when it comes to drug crimes. Traffic stops are common situations where fentanyl might be discovered after a vehicle search by Richmond County Police or Georgia State Patrol. Law enforcement must have a valid reason or probable cause to initiate a stop.
Exigent circumstances, such as the belief that evidence may be destroyed, can justify a search without a warrant. If any evidence is obtained illegally without probable cause or a warrant, the charge can be challenged in court.
Law enforcement often requests consent to search a vehicle after a traffic stop. Police will ask individuals to voluntarily allow officers to search their vehicle without a warrant. You have the right to refuse a search if there’s no warrant or probable cause. An experienced criminal defense lawyer in Georgia can advise you on the best way to handle this situation.
What Are Fentanyl State And Federal Laws?
State and federal laws govern fentanyl-related offenses, and the penalties can be severe. In Georgia, possessing any amount of fentanyl can result in prison time, fines of up to $100,000 and a permanent criminal record.
Federally, fentanyl is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, as it has a high potential for abuse and dependency. Federal penalties often include mandatory minimum sentences, especially for trafficking offenses. The United States Attorney’s Office prosecutes these local federal cases in the U.S. District Court for Southern Georgia.
It’s essential for individuals charged with fentanyl crimes to work with a criminal defense attorney to understand the distinctions and overlaps between state and federal jurisdictions.
Undercover Investigations In Drug Cases
Law enforcement often seeks to combat fentanyl trafficking by conducting undercover investigations that may go on for an extended period of time without the knowledge of the target. These investigations may involve state and federal agencies working across Georgia and other states using information provided by individuals previously arrested for drug crimes. Using that information, officers will pull over vehicles under the guise of a traffic stop. Officers may also entice arrested individuals facing high prison sentences with the potential of a lesser sentence if they pose as a buyers or sellers to gather evidence against other citizens.
These tactics can sometimes lead to officers engaging in entrapment. An experienced criminal defense attorney will be able to review the unique facts of each situation and advise on whether entrapment is a viable defense.
Prompt legal representation is crucial in these cases to scrutinize the methods and legality of undercover operations.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one are facing fentanyl-related charges in Augusta, Georgia and beyond, Claridge Law Firm can help.
Call 706-860-4500 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule a confidential consultation.