Have you been charged with a drug crime?

If you have been arrested for or are under investigation by law enforcement in regard to any type of drug offense, now is the time to act and contact an attorney. You have the right to criminal defense counsel in the face of drug charges. Choosing to exercise this right by involving a drug crime attorney may have a significant and positive impact on the outcome of your case and therefore your ability to face a future free from incarceration and the various restrictions a criminal record will have on employment, financial, housing and educational opportunities.

How a Defense Attorney Can Help

At the Law Office of Judy Kim, an Atlanta criminal defense lawyer is committed to helping arrestees and defendants throughout the Atlanta area who are dealing with charges. The firm offers skilled representation if your case is in the investigatory stage and formal charges have not yet been filed against you. Under Attorney Kim’s direction, the firm is prepared to take on virtually any type of controlled substance case, including:

• Drug possession
• Drug distribution
• Drug trafficking
• Drug cultivation
• Possession of marijuana
• Drug manufacturing
• Possession with intent to sell

This may involve any of various substances that are controlled by the government, such as:

• >Heroin
• Marijuana
• Ecstasy
• Cocaine
• Crack
• Meth
• Prescription drugs

The Law Office of Judy Kim, P.C. also takes on criminal cases that involve prescription fraud, the offense of fraudulently obtaining prescription drugs. The firm’s legal team knows how daunting it can be to take on criminal charges of this nature and the team is fully prepared to go the distance in an effort to help clients build a case that will help them obtain the just outcome that they are looking for.

Penalties for a Conviction

Depending on the specific drug crime and whether any issues were present that would enhance sentencing, a defendant in Atlanta may face imprisonment in state prison or county jail, fines, community service, probation and/or drug rehabilitation or treatment. Most drug crimes are charged as felonies in Georgia, meaning a defendant may face incarceration in state prison. A first drug possession offense for marijuana or a different drug that is not considered highly dangerous, however, may be charged as a misdemeanor with the defendant eligible for alternative sentencing to avoid imprisonment.

A skilled negotiator and trial attorney, Judy Kim is here to help you in the face of your Atlanta drug crime charges. It is true that your future is at stake at this point in time, but with an aggressive approach by a knowledgeable lawyer you will have the opportunity of avoiding a conviction and the serious consequences this may have on various areas of your life.

Do not hesitate to get the involvement of an experienced lawyer from the firm. Atlanta premier criminal defense attorney knows what’s at stake, and should you enter into an attorney-client relationship, the firm will tirelessly work as an advocate for your rights. With extensive experience in these types of cases and an unwavering dedication to helping clients when it is needed most, you will be able to trust that the legal team will leave no stone unturned as they fight to help you during this trying time. Contact the firm today for more information.

Repercussions for Cocaine Possession

A person convicted of a cocaine offense in Georgia may face various penalties. There are the immediate criminal penalties that may be enforced, as well as the lasting effects that a criminal conviction of this kind may have on one’s reputation, career and personal life. A criminal conviction may affect employment and may also have a negative impact on housing and financial opportunities. The type of criminal charge that is placed upon a drug crime is dependent on the type of drug and the type of crime that has been committed. In the case of cocaine, since it is a Schedule II substance, possession is considered a felony, and is punished accordingly.

• First possession offense: 2-15 years in prison, 6 month license suspension, and possible fines
• Second possession offense: 5-30 years in prison, 1 year license suspension, and possible fines
• Third possession offense: 5-30 years in prison, 2 year license suspension, and possible fines

Possession charges are sometimes hard to determine, as the drug doesn’t have to be in physical possession at the time to be found guilty of these charges. If an individual is in control of cocaine—even if it’s lying around in their house or in their vehicle—it may result in a possession charge. If it is unlawfully seized, however, this evidence cannot be used against the individual. With the help of an Atlanta criminal attorney, you can take the necessary investigative steps to determine whether or not your criminal allegations resulted from illegal police conduct.

Trafficking Charges

Selling, manufacturing, delivering, and/or knowingly possessing more than 28 grams of, cocaine can be handled as a drug trafficking crime. Drug trafficking carries much more severe penalties than a possession charge would, as it involves “intent to sell.” If carrying more than 28, but less than 200, grams of cocaine, you could face a minimum of 10 years imprisonment. If carrying at least 200, but less than 400, grams of cocaine, you could face a minimum sentence of 15 years.

Defending against either trafficking and/or possession charges is sometimes difficult, but a knowledgeable attorney can try to determine whether or not the search and seizure of the possessed drugs was done within the boundaries of the law. If drugs were found in an individual’s vehicle, the law enforcement officer would have had to have probable cause to stop the vehicle, as well as cause to implement a search. If the law enforcement officer acted unlawfully at any time, the evidence could not be used against the defendant.

Schedule II Substance

A defendant facing crack charges in the Atlanta area may be at risk of facing harsh penalties if convicted. Immediately involving an attorney would be the most important step you can take when faced with any drug-related charges. At The Law Office of Judy Kim, P.C., an Atlanta criminal defense lawyer can be contacted for experienced advice and proven defense in court.

Even if you are currently under investigation by local, state or federal law enforcement and no charges have yet been filed against you by the prosecuting attorney, you may be in danger of facing formal drug charges in the near future. A competent attorney can work to counteract any investigation that is currently in progress, possibly enabling you to avoid charges in the first place.

Defending Against Cocaine Offenses

Challenging cocaine-related drug crime charges can be difficult, but with an aggressive and thorough approach your attorney may be able to successfully assist you in securing an acquittal, alternative sentencing or at the very least lessening the penalties you may face. Depending on what type of drug-related charges you are facing; possession, trafficking, etc, you will be faced with different penalties. For possession of crack cocaine, you may face 2-15 years imprisonment for a first offense, whereas trafficking may bring it up to a minimum of 10 years.

A typical approach in the face of cocaine charges will be to review the investigatory, evidentiary and procedural issues related to the case. This may uncover an unreasonable search and seizure that was conducted in the absence of a valid search warrant, mishandling of drug evidence or key witness testimony that is actually unreliable. Your lawyer may be able to use this to help you secure a positive case result when this seemed difficult or impossible at first glance.

Penalties for Illegal Cultivation

A person who is accused of marijuana cultivation may face felony charges and harsh penalties. The severity of the consequences for cultivation is dependent on the amount of marijuana that was discovered to be in an individual’s possession. No matter the amount of cultivated marijuana found, it will always be considered a felony. The penalties do vary, however.

• 10 lbs. or less: 1-10 years imprisonment
• 10-2,000 lbs.: 5-30 years imprisonment & $100,000 maximum fine
• 2,000-10,000 lbs.: 7-30 years imprisonment & $250,000 maximum fine
• More than 10,000 lbs.: 15-30 years imprisonment & $1,000,000 maximum fine
• Any amount within 1,000 feet of a school, park, or drug free zone: 20-40 years imprisonment & $40,000 maximum fine

State & Federal Defense

A defendant in Atlanta may face State or Federal charges for drug cultivation, depending on the alleged offense and size of the operation. The severity of charges and the particular penalties that may be enforced upon a conviction for drug cultivation will vary depending on the amount of marijuana involved as well as whether this was grown for personal use or for distribution.

If you have been charged with cultivation or if you are under investigation, please don’t hesitate to contact an attorney. Your freedom may depend up on the quick action of an experienced lawyer. At The Law Office of Judy Kim, P.C., you will find just that. Atlanta criminal lawyer Judy Kim, is a premier criminal defender in Georgia, and she is ready to aggressively fight for you. Contact the office today for more information.

Atlanta Drug Distribution Lawyer

About Your Charges

Drug distribution is defined as selling, transporting, or giving drugs to another person. This is a felony offense in Georgia, punishable by up to 10 or even 30 years in state prison depending on the classification of the drug and the amount. For a second drug distribution conviction, a defendant may face up to 40 years or even life in prison. A defendant can expect to face enhanced penalties if he or she is accused of selling or giving drugs to a minor or committing this offense on or within a certain distance of a school or church.

If an individual is found to be in possession of a large amount of any particular drug, it might give law enforcement officers a reason to believe that there was intent to sell it. In the instance that drugs are found to be separated into individual containers and/or bags this might also provide a reason for law enforcement to think that the defendant had the intention of distributing and/or selling the substance, and can therefore place distribution or possession with intent to sell charges upon them. Distribution differs from possession with intent to sell in that distribution is carried out when a manufacturer passes on the drugs to a wholesaler, who then sells the drugs.

Defining Georgia’s State Law

Drug crimes are taken extremely seriously in the state of Georgia. When this crime involves distribution, it is important to realize that the crimes will be even more severe. Distribution is not a simple crime. Although many people believe that this crime solely deals with “dealing” drugs, the truth is that the definition is much broader than that. Distribution refers to everything from the making of drugs to the moving and to the selling. It is similar to trafficking, but on a much lesser level. Nonetheless, it still requires the aggressive tactics that only a proven Atlanta criminal defense attorney can provide. Therefore, you should not wait to contact a professional at The Law Office of Judy Kim, P.C.

Distributing Illegal Substances

It may be difficult to challenge either of these drug charges, depending on the particular circumstances of the alleged offense and the evidence that the government has against the individual, but it is not impossible. The prosecution must be able to prove intent to distribute, and the law enforcement officer who initially recovered the drugs must have acted within the bounds of the law during any search and seizure procedures. If the drugs were uncovered in a vehicle, there must have been probable cause to search the car or consent from the driver.

At The Law Offices of Judy Kim lead attorney Judy Kim has built a reputation over the years for providing comprehensive assistance in even the most complex of cases. Should you choose to work with her and her entire legal team, you will be able to breathe easier knowing that they will invest the time necessary in getting to know your case. They recognize that there are nuances that these cases will have and you simply cannot be satisfied with generic or cookie cutter advice. You can trust that this is not what you will receive should you choose to work with them. They know what is on the line – they will fight tooth and nail in the efforts to protect your legal rights.

Ecstasy Attorney in Atlanta

Drug crimes of every nature can result in serious consequences for a defendant who is accused of this type of criminal behavior. The penalties, however, will greatly depend on the nature of the offense and the type of drug that is involved. For example, drug crime penalties can be substantially life changing when the drug in question is something as strong as the hallucinogenic known as ecstasy.

Highly addictive, and extremely mind-altering, ecstasy has become a seriously penalized drug, whether for its use, possession, cultivation, or distribution. The consequences of a conviction involving ecstasy are so serious, in fact, that Georgians who have been accused should not wait to connect with an Atlanta criminal lawyer who can defend them in court.

Building a Strong Defense in Court

One of the strongest ways to build an effective defense in court is by looking at all aspects of the case, not just the immediate circumstances of the arrest. When looking at the ecstasy drug, you can see that since its arrival and usage, ecstasy has gained more widespread use, even among individuals who might not be taking it purely for hallucinogenic purposes. Common reactions to the use of ecstasy include an increased sense of intimacy with others, feelings of euphoria, and a reduction in anxiety. Given these findings, many psychological studies have begun to explore the drug’s therapeutic benefits, suggesting its facilitation of therapy sessions for certain individuals who might otherwise struggle.

Among cognitive therapists, there are many professionals in the field who argue in defense of the drug’s altering powers. Some clinical trials are even exploring other effective uses of ecstasy, including its use as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as anxiety reduction and as an outlet for the pain suffered by terminal cancer patients. In fact, there are currently many regulatory authorities throughout the world that have approved further scientific study of the effects of ecstasy, suggesting that it could have benefits for those who use it.

In the U.S., however, the use of MDMA remains a criminal offense that is punishable by law. Therefore, persons who are accused of a drug offense involving ecstasy must act immediately. Only with the skillful defense of a criminal attorney do defendants stand a chance of escaping conviction. Careful examination of the case must be made before a method of defense is built, and many factors must be taken into consideration. Given the drug’s potential medicinal purposes, there is room for argument as to its use. With the right attorney by your side, a defense of this nature can be established, or another angle could be taken if the circumstances of your case allow for it.

Penalties for Ecstasy / MDMA Offenses

An alleged offender may face criminal charges for the possession, sale, manufacturing or trafficking of ecstasy. Even for possessing a small amount of ecstasy, a person will be charged with a felony crime in the state of Georgia. Depending on the amount of the drug found in the defendant’s possession or on his / her property, the following penalties may be enforced if the defendant is convicted:

• Ecstasy possession – imprisonment for 2 to 15 years in state prison, probation, fines, community service, and/or drug abuse education classes
• Ecstasy sale / intent to distribute – imprisonment for 5 to 30 years in state prison, probation, heavy fines, community service and/or drug abuse education classes

Increased penalties will apply if a defendant is convicted of a second possession or sale offense or if the alleged crime occurred within a commercial drug-free zone—such as a school, park, playground or church. If ecstasy was given to a minor, enhanced penalties may also apply. If you have been charged with an ecstasy-related crime, you should talk to an attorney as soon as possible to see what options you have in defending yourself against the severe penalties of a conviction. Contact The Law Office of Judy Kim, P.C. for more information.

Atlanta Heroin Attorney

Criminal Defense for Drug Charges & Penalties

An individual can be charged with heroin possession even without being in direct physical contact with it. If the drug is found in their vehicle and/or in their home, they may be charged with possession. As long as it is assumed that someone has control over the drugs, they will be the one held responsible for the presence of them—sometimes even if it is found in/on their personal property but they claim that it belongs to someone else.

After being arrested for the possession, use, distribution, or sale of heroin, you could be facing stiff penalties. In fact, a guilty verdict could result in no less than two years in prison, even for first-time offenders. In order to avoid the penalties that come with a conviction, contact Atlanta criminal defense lawyer, Judy Kim. Following are the basic penalties that may be enforced for various drug crimes related to heroin:

• First offense: heroin possession – 2 to 15 years in prison
• Second offense: heroin possession – 5 to 30 years in prison
• First offense: heroin distribution / intent to sell – 5 to 30 years in prison
• Second offense: heroin distribution / intent to sell – 10 to 40 years or life in prison

Drug Risk Reduction Programs

In some cases, a Georgia court will allow a drug offender to enroll in a Drug Risk Reduction Program in place of spending time in jail. These programs are designed as a way to provide treatment for those convicted of drug-related crimes, in the hope that they can be rehabilitated and therefore less likely to repeat the same drug-related crimes. If you have been charged and/or convicted of with a heroin-related offense, you should not hesitate to look into treatment programs in place of serving your sentence in jail.

Atlanta Drug Manufacturing Attorney

If you are currently facing criminal charges or an investigation involving the alleged manufacturing of a controlled substance, you are in danger of facing felony charges. You may face imprisonment in a Georgia state prison for years or decades—depending on the type of drug, the amount you are accused of manufacturing, and whether this substance was allegedly manufactured for personal use or for sale/distribution. Atlanta criminal defense lawyer Judy Kim, is prepared to tackle allegations of illegal drug manufacturing in courts throughout Georgia. Without her help, the consequences of a conviction could include:

• Heavy fines
• Asset & property seizure
• Suspension of driver’s license
• Mandatory community service
• Criminal record
• Mandatory drug treatment

Consequences of a Conviction

Manufacturing charges are one of the most severely punished drug-related crimes, and if convicted, one could expect to face a troublesome future. Not only would an individual face serious time in prison, but the mark of a manufacturing charge on their criminal record would be enough to affect future employment and housing opportunities.

To be convicted, however, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant actually manufactured a controlled substance, the defendant was aware of the manufacturing, and that the defendant manufactured a controlled substance intentionally. If you are faced with a drug manufacturing charge, it is imperative to contact an attorney as soon as possible.

Atlanta Marijuana Lawyer

One of the most commonly prosecuted drugs in the state of Georgia is marijuana. If you are successfully convicted of a drug crime relating to this substance, you will be facing severe penalties that will increase in severity with the amount of type of charge you are slapped with and the amount of the drug involved. To better protect yourself against the penalties of a possible conviction for marijuana drug charges in Georgia, you should immediately seek the knowledge of an Atlanta criminal attorney at The Law Office of Judy Kim, P.C.

For example, if you are criminally charged with possession of less than an ounce of marijuana, you will be charged with a misdemeanor and be at risk of receiving probation. If, however, you have over an ounce in your possession, you will be facing a felony and could be slapped with penalties that include up to ten years of incarceration and a varying monetary fine. The sale, cultivation and trafficking of marijuana is similarly harshly penalized and is always considered to be a felony offense.

Take Legal Action Today

If you have recently been criminally charged with an offense of this nature or if you have reason to believe that you are under investigation, it is in your best interests to get the involvement of an experienced attorney that you can fully rely on. At The Law Office of Judy Kim, P.C. they recognize what is on the line when you are facing criminal charges of this nature – they will stop at nothing in their efforts to help you obtain the just outcome that you deserve. Should you choose to work with a hard-hitting criminal defense attorney from the firm, you will be able to rest easier knowing that you will have an advocate on your side that you can trust to go the distance in their efforts to defend your best interests. You can contact an Atlanta drug crime lawyer from teh firm to learn more about the legal actions that can be taken in your defense.

Marijuana Possession Attorney

Being in possession of any type of illegal drug is a serious offense, even if it was not found in an individual’s direct physical control. Someone may still be faced with possession charges if drugs were uncovered in their vehicle and/or home, and they would be subject to the same penalties under the law. Marijuana is considered a Schedule I substance — along with other drugs like heroin, LSD, ecstasy and cocaine — and is classified as being a “high risk for abuse” substance which has no accepted medical use in the United States.

Schedule I classification is the highest rating that can be placed upon any drug, meaning that marijuana possession charges could bring serious penalties for anyone convicted. If you have been arrested or criminally accused of marijuana possession in the state of Georgia, you must take legal action at once. With the help of an Atlanta criminal lawyer at The Law Office of Judy Kim, P.C. you can effectively challenge the allegations that have been made against you.

Penalties Upon Conviction

A first time offense of possessing less than one ounce of marijuana is considered a misdemeanor under Georgia law. The penalties of such can range from probation to 1 year in prison and a $1,000 fine. Many times first offenders will be shown leniency and be allowed to complete drug counseling and/or therapy as a term of their probation, but any violation of such could result in the maximum penalty. Second time and subsequent offenses are still considered misdemeanor offenses—if in possession of less than one ounce of marijuana—but would likely result in the sentencing of maximum penalties.

Marijuana possession charges automatically become a felony offense if an individual is found with more than an ounce in their control—meaning it was found directly on their person or within the confines of their home or vehicle, for example. If convicted of this offense, one could expect to face a $1,000 fine and a prison sentence anywhere from 1-10 years. Regardless of the severity of the charges, however, a person’s driver’s license will almost always be suspended. For a first offense, the minimum suspension is 6 months. For a second offense, the minimum suspension is 1 year, and for third and subsequent offenses, 2 years. Contact the firm to learn more.

Meth Attorney in Atlanta

Using Meth in Georgia

Recreational use of methamphetamine has become widely popular among persons throughout the U.S., and the state of Georgia is no exception. Powerfully addictive, many meth users need only one or two exposures to the drug before they become addicted. Unfortunately, what might start as an experimental trial can quickly escalate into much more of a problem, ultimately enabling a serious drug problem for a person who only meant to experiment with the drug once or twice.

Today, the production and availability of meth has become much more easily accessible. Meth labs have sprouted up everywhere, making it significantly easier for people to obtain the substance, and consequently become addicted. If you have fallen victim to the powerful stimulant known as methamphetamine and you are now facing criminal drug charges for your use, possession, or distribution of the drug, you could be facing serious penalties. You should immediately seek the counsel of a qualified defense attorney who can help you establish the right course of action moving forward.

Penalties for Meth-Related Crimes

Though it is FDA-approved for limited medical use, methamphetamine is still a controlled substance. A person may therefore face serious criminal charges for the unlawful possession, manufacturing, distribution, sale or trafficking of meth or Desoxyn. A defendant convicted of a drug crime related to meth may face anywhere from 2 to 40 years in prison, depending on the type of offense, whether he or she has a prior conviction and the amount of meth involved.

Judy Kim, a premier Atlanta criminal defense lawyer has the skills and knowledge necessary to aggressively tackle the legal repercussions of a methamphetamine charge in Georgia. Meth trafficking can be classified as selling, delivering, or being in possession of, more than 28 grams of methamphetamine, and is considered a felony charge. The penalties include:

• Possession of 28-200 grams of meth—minimum of 10 years imprisonment & $200,000 fine
• Possession of 200-400 grams of meth—minimum of 15 years imprisonment & $300,000 fine
• Possession of 400 grams of meth or more—minimum of 25 years imprisonment & $1 million fine

Why You Need a Lawyer

Meth manufacturing is also a very serious offense, and the resulting penalties are based upon the amount of meth being produced. The consequences are the same for that of possession, meaning that they are punishable by the same amount. Therefore, in the wake of an arrest for possession of meth or any other drug related crime involving methamphetamine, defendants should waste no time in seeking the skillful defense of a qualified attorney. In fact, to forego your right to legal representation could seriously deter your chances of escaping an ultimate conviction. When you have an attorney like Judy Kim on your side, however, you are much more likely to receive a reduced sentence or have your charges dropped altogether.

Atlanta Drug Possession Lawyer

All controlled substances are divided into schedules depending on the perceived danger and potential for addiction associated with the drug. Accordingly, the penalties for drug possession will vary depending on the type and amount of drug that is found in one’s possession by law enforcement. In some cases, it is even illegal to possess the chemicals/substances that are used to manufacture drugs. In order to escape the legal penalties associated with possession of an illegal substance, you will need an Atlanta criminal defense attorney on your side.

To be charged with possession, however, an individual does not even have to be in direct physical possession of a drug either. If it is found in a vehicle or in within their home, a person may still be charged with a crime, but the search and seizure by law enforcement that uncovered the drugs must have been done lawfully. If an individual did not give consent to a law enforcement officer to search their car and there was no probable cause to do so, if drugs are found, it cannot be used against them.

Penalties for Possession of Illegal Substances

Possession of a Schedule III, IV or V substance such as anabolic steroids or certain stimulants or depressants may be charged as a felony offense punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison. Possession of a Schedule I or II substance such asheroin, LSD, ecstasy, cocaine or amphetamine will be charged as a felony and may be punishable by 2 to 15 years in state prison.

Second-time offenses will result in enhanced penalties, and if a defendant is accused of drug possession with the intent to sell or distribute, he or she will face more serious charges or penalties as well. Marijuana cultivation can qualify under possession charges, as well, and depending on the ultimate weight/amount of cannabis found, a person can face serious jail time and heavy fines. The penalties for marijuana cultivation include:

• 10 lbs. or less: 1-10 years imprisonment
• 10-2,000 lbs.: 5-30 years imprisonment & $100,000 maximum fine
• 2,000-10,000 lbs.: 7-30 years imprisonment & $250,000 maximum fine
• More than 10,000 lbs.: 15-30 years imprisonment & $1,000,000 maximum fine
• Within 1,000 feet of a school, park, or drug free zone: 20-40 years imprisonment & $40,000 maximum fine

If you have been charged with a drug possession charge, it is important to talk to an attorney immediately and review the details of your arrest. If you believe that a law enforcement officer unlawfully searched your property and/or vehicle without probable cause or consent, you may be able to defend yourself against the penalties of a conviction.

Why hire a defense lawyer?

Whether your case is involving cocaine, marijuana, LSD, Ecstasy, heroin or an illegal prescription medication; you are running the risk of detrimental and frightening consequences. Depending on the amount and type of drug, the severity of the punishment you are facing will vary, however, there are no cases where it is seen as a minor issue. Judy Kim understands the severity of the situation you are in, and if you choose to secure her legal assistance, you can breathe easier knowing that she will do everything that she can to protect you rights. Contact an Atlanta drug crime lawyer from the firm today to receive your initial case evaluation and to learn more about your possible options.

Possession with Intent to Sell

Information from an Atlanta Drug Crime Lawyer

The state of Georgia is not lenient on dealing with drug offenders – the penalties that are associated with drug offenses are extremely severe. Should you be accused of possession and be found with a large amount of any type of illegal substance on your person, you could be facing elevated charges of possession with intent to sell. These penalties are more severe than for simple possession and will leave you struggling with the aftermath. Atlanta criminal attorney Judy Kim understands this better than anyone. As such, she is prepared to aggressively defend her clients in court.

Have you been criminally charged?

The exact penalties will differ depending on the exact drug that you are found to be possessing Controlled substances are broken down into different schedules and the penalties will be different in accordance with the schedule with which you are possessing. The five schedules, as defined by §16-13-24 of the 2010 Georgia Code, includes the following:

• Schedule I: These substances have been flagged as having an extremely high potential for abuse. They currently do not have any use in the medical community and have been designated as having no accepted use that can be deemed safe for the consumer.
• Schedule II: Again, these drugs are considered to have a high potential for abuse. However, they do have an accepted place for medical use – although there are severe restrictions on the usage. If abused, this drug could cause severe dependence.
• Schedule III: While there is potential for abuse, it is much more limited than Schedule I and II. It is currently accepted as use in medical treatment – usage could lead to moderate physical dependency but high psychological dependence.
• Schedule IV: There is low potential for abuse and is currently accepted for medical treatment. The dependency that can be caused is considered to be limited.
• Schedule V: Even lower potential for abuse than Schedule IV.

Penalties for possessing a Schedule I drug will be far more severe than a substance which is considered to be Schedule IV. Regardless, however, crimes of this nature will have serious impact on your future and should not be taken lightly. Judy Kim recognizes what is on the line when you are facing something of this nature and she is fully prepared to help you obtain the just outcome that you deserve.

Aggressive Defense for You

If you are looking to protect your future, it is highly encouraged that you contact a knowledgeable lawyer from her firm as soon as possible. With extensive experience and an intimate understanding of criminal law, she stands ready to help you protect your best interests in every way possible – call today to learn more. To schedule your initial case consultation, don’t wait to contact The Law Office of Judy Kim today.

Prescription Drug Attorney in Atlanta

Aggressive Drug Crime Defense

Prescription drug abuse has become one of the most prevalent types of drug offenses in recent years. Unlawful acquisition of these drugs through prescription fraud has made them some of the most commonly abused types of drugs, and although they are technically considered “legal substances,” as they are used to serve a medical purpose, there is a high risk of addiction and physical dependency for many of these drugs over extended periods of usage.

Atlanta criminal defense lawyer Judy Kim recognizes that many prescription drugs are now being used for recreational purposes, as well as to enable an addiction, and have therefore created an underground market for prescription medications. According to law enforcement agencies, some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs were:

• Vicodin (hydrocodone)
• Valium (diazepam)
• Xanax (alprazolam)
• OxyContin (oxycodone)
• Percocet (oxycodone/paracetamol)
• Morphine

Don’t be convicted! Contact the Law Office of Judy Kim, P.C.

A defendant who is facing prescription drug crime charges may face imprisonment in state prison, fines, community service and probation. Both State and Federal laws are harsh on drug offenders, including those accused of the unlawful possession, sale and/or distribution, trafficking or possession with intent to sell prescription drugs. Though most people associate drug crimes with illegal street drugs, these offenses also encompass prescription medication.

Prescription drugs, like narcotics and other illegal drugs are regulated by the government and are therefore considered controlled substances. The severity of charges and penalties associated with prescription drug offenses will vary depending on the type of drug and the amount. The nature of the offense will also influence potential penalties. If an individual is found to be selling or distributing prescription drugs, they will face much harsher penalties than someone else would for a possession offense.

Atlanta Prescription Fraud Lawyer

If you are facing charges or are under investigation for prescription fraud, there is no time to waste. Involving an attorney will be necessary if you are to have the opportunity of challenging your charges and working toward a favorable result. If you are convicted, you may face imprisonment and other serious penalties that will have an impact on your life from a personal and financial standpoint.

Defining Your Charges

Prescription fraud is a type of drug crime that is related specifically to prescription drugs. In order to take or possess prescription medication, a person must have a valid prescription from a licensed medical professional. If a person is accused of obtaining prescription drugs through fraud or misrepresentation, he or she may face prescription fraud charges. There are various ways in which this offense may be attempted or carried out:

• Stealing blank prescription slips
• Altering a prescription
• Doctor shopping – seeing multiple doctors for the same prescription
• Fraudulently seeking prescription medication online
• Impersonating medical personnel
• Forging prescription slips

Whether accomplished for personal use or to distribute the medication, prescription fraud is generally a felony offense in Georgia. A defendant may therefore face imprisonment in state prison as well as fines and future opportunities limited by a criminal record.

What are my options?

Interested in finding out how to challenge your prescription fraud charges and avoid a conviction for this offense? It is important to talk to a lawyer about your options. At The Law Office of Judy Kim, a proven defense attorney handles all types of drug crime cases for clients, including those that involve prescription fraud and any prescription drug crime. You are welcome you to call the firm or contact an attorney online today to undergo your confidential consultation.

What is a drug crime?
A drug crime is a criminal offense that is related to a controlled substance. This is a naturally occurring or manmade substance that is regulated by the government and may include illegal drugs such as heroin or ecstasy as well asprescription drugs. A defendant in Atlanta may face drug charges for the unlawful possession, distribution,trafficking, manufacturing or cultivation of a controlled substance.

When should I contact an attorney?
We recommend at least discussing your case with an Atlanta drug crime attorney as soon as you are aware that you are or may be facing criminal charges or an investigation for a drug-related offense. It is never too early to involve a legal professional to protect your rights, even if formal charges have not been filed or you have not yet been arrested. From the very beginning, a lawyer can work to assert your legal rights and protect your interests.  Call 404-890-7281 now.

What are the most common ways to challenge drug charges?
Although the approach will vary depending on your particular case, many drug cases can be challenged on evidentiary or procedural issues. The manner in which evidence is collected and processed may have a significant impact on the outcome of a drug crime case, particularly if law enforcement did not have a valid search warrant, violated the chain of custody or violated protocol or your Constitutional rights in any way. This may result in drug evidence being considered inadmissible.

If I’m planning on pleading guilty, do I even need a lawyer?
It may be tempting to accept a plea bargain offered to you by the prosecuting attorney. It may seem as though the government has an infallible case against you. If you choose to forgo legal counsel and simply plead guilty you may find that you were offered a plea bargain that was not in your best interests or that you actually had a chance to avoid a conviction altogether. We therefore strongly suggest that you discuss your case with a lawyer before making any major decisions.

What types of sentences may be imposed for an Atlanta drug crime conviction?
The penalties enforced for a drug crime conviction in Atlanta will vary widely depending on a number of factors. A defendant may face jail time, imprisonment in state prison, fines, mandatory rehabilitation, probation and community service.

Will I be able to avoid jail time through alternative sentencing?
There are some situations where a first-time drug offender may qualify for alternative sentencing and therefore avoid incarceration. In these matters, the sentence would be geared toward rehabilitation, helping the defendant correct the root problem rather than simply being punished for his or her behavior.