Drug distribution (realization) is one of the most serious crimes in Georgia, subject to strict criminal policy by the state. The legislation sharply distinguishes between drug use/possession and distribution. While laws regarding consumption have leaned towards liberalization, penalties for distribution remain catastrophically high, often ranging from 10 to 20 years or even life imprisonment. Charges related to so-called "dead drops" (leaving drugs at a location) via internet sales are particularly common. In such cases, the legality of evidence is crucial: the correctness of controlled purchases, covert surveillance, and search protocols. Any procedural violation is a chance for a defense lawyer to protect the client from the harshest sentences. Legal.ge connects you with lawyers experienced in complex drug distribution cases who know how to build an effective defense strategy.
What Does Drug Distribution Defense Service Cover?
Defending against drug distribution charges requires an aggressive and detailed strategy. Specialists on Legal.ge offer:
- Analysis of Covert Operations: Checking the legality of controlled purchases conducted by the police, covert video/audio recordings, and other operational measures. Detecting elements of provocation often changes the outcome of the case.
- Reclassification of Charges: Working to reclassify the act not as distribution, but as possession or aiding in purchase, which carries significantly lighter penalties.
- Digital Evidence Expertise: Analyzing chats, GPS locations, and cell tower data, which often form the backbone of the prosecution's case.
- Plea Bargaining: In exceptional cases, negotiating with the prosecutor's office for a reduced sentence in exchange for valuable information or other conditions.
- Jury Trial Representation: For particularly serious charges, developing a strategy for and conducting a trial by jury.
Real-World Scenarios When You Need This Service
Distribution charges can be brought in various contexts:
- "Dead Drop" Cases: A person is accused of placing drugs at locations and sending coordinates via internet apps (Telegram, Wickr). This is considered a particularly grave crime.
- Controlled Purchase: When a police agent or informant buys drugs from the accused. The lawyer must determine if there was police provocation (entrapment).
- Sharing with a Friend: Often, giving drugs to another person for free ("treating") is legally qualified as distribution, though a correct defense strategy can challenge this.
- Intermediary Role: Helping someone find drugs and taking money to pass it on. This might be qualified as complicity in distribution or merely aiding in purchase.
Georgian Legal Framework and Regulations
Drug distribution is regulated by Article 260 of the Criminal Code of Georgia. Paragraph 4 and subsequent sections of this article prescribe penalties for distribution. The severity increases based on the quantity of drugs (large and particularly large quantities) and group action. Practice of the Supreme Court of Georgia interprets "distribution" strictly, covering any form of transfer (paid or unpaid) to another person. A lawyer must be updated on the latest court practices to defend the client effectively.
Service Process
Working with a lawyer on distribution cases involves:
- Rapid Response: Lawyer's visit to the detention center and preparing the client for interrogation.
- Evidence Review: Critical analysis of video/audio recordings and witness testimonies presented by the prosecution.
- Building an Alternative Version: Constructing a defense strategy that questions the prosecution's version (e.g., arguing drugs were for personal use, not sale).
- Court Battle: Active participation in court hearings, cross-examinations, and closing arguments.
Why Choose Legal.ge?
Penalties for drug distribution cases often reach life imprisonment. There is no room for experimentation. Legal.ge allows you to choose criminal law specialists who have experience working on such complex cases and can provide maximum protection for the client's interests.
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