Special Terms of Probation for Drugs

Probation is an alternative to serving time in jail for a criminal charge. However, the probationer must comply with all of the probation conditions. Violating just one term of probation in Georgia can result in the judge revoking all or part of your remaining probation.

When looking at the terms associated with probation, there are general and specific conditions. The following are the typical General Conditions of Probation that are imposed in most criminal cases in Georgia:

• Do not violate the laws of any government unit
• Avoid injurious and vicious habits
• Avoid people or places of disreputable or harmful character
• Report to the probation supervisor as directed
• Allow your probation supervisor to visit you at home or elsewhere
• Do not change residences without prior permission from your probation supervisor
• Work at suitable employment

In addition to the General Conditions, most criminal sentences will include Special Conditions of Probation. People charged with drug-related crimes often have Special Conditions that have to be followed. Examples of Special Conditions associated with drug-related crimes include:

• Submit to a substance abuse evaluation and follow any recommended treatment
• Perform community service hours
• Avoid contact with certain named people or entry into certain prohibited places
• Do not drink any alcohol or take any drugs without a prescription
• Submit to random drug tests at your own expense

There is an additional special term of probation for people convicted of manufacturing, delivering, distributing, dispensing, administering, selling, or possessing with intent to distribute any controlled substance or if a person engages in trafficking cocaine, illegal drugs, marijuana, or methamphetamine.

If a person is convicted of a drug offense in violation of O.C.G.A. § 16-13-30(b), § 16-13-30(d), or § 16-13-31 then they can be subject to a special term of probation of three years in addition to the term of imprisonment imposed by the Court. For a second violation, the special term of probation shall be six years in addition to the term of imprisonment.

Hire an Experienced Georgia Drug Probation Attorney Today to Protect Your Rights

While probation is a useful tool for avoiding jail time, it is time intensive and requires the probationer to stay on top of all their conditions. It is critical you understand precisely what general, specific, and special terms you are submitting to. If you have any questions about what you are committing to, please contact our offices immediately. We frequently deal with clients who have accidentally violated probation and wish they had paid closer attention to what they agreed to. Contact us now and speak with one of our top rated Criminal Defense Lawyers in Georgia. We deal with probation and probation violations all the time and have the experience you need to make an informed decision.