The city of Atlanta, Georgia, has experienced a significant surge in crime since the pandemic, placing it among the top five U.S. cities with the highest rates of violent crime. Incidents tend to be more frequent on MARTA trains and buses, where riders face a greater risk of becoming victims of theft or assault. Law enforcement agencies have observed this upward trend in criminal activity dating as far back as 2008, underscoring the need for increased vigilance and, when necessary, strong legal representation.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) keeps detailed records of crimes committed and offenders convicted across the state. According to GBI data, in Atlanta, a violent crime occurs approximately every 18 minutes. These crimes include murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault, serious offenses that can carry severe penalties under Georgia law.
The rates of non-violent crimes are even higher. The GBI reports that every 90 seconds, a non-violent offense takes place in Atlanta. These include property crimes such as burglary, larceny, motor vehicle theft, arson, and even human trafficking. Such statistics highlight the importance of having a skilled personal injury attorney who understands both violent and non-violent crime laws in Georgia and can help protect your rights if you’re ever accused.
This rise in crime is not surprising. According to research by the National Drug Intelligence Center, the increase in both drug use and drug trafficking directly contributes to higher rates of violent and property crimes.
Since 2008, the use and sale of crack cocaine have steadily risen across Georgia. However, beginning in 2015, opioid abuse began to surpass cocaine as a leading cause of criminal activity. In that same year alone, more than 7.8 million opioid prescriptions were issued in Atlanta, fueling addiction and the crimes often associated with it.
Georgia has become a major drug distribution hub for the southeastern United States, which has led to a sharp rise in drug-related crimes. This means that illegal drug shipments are often routed through Georgia, and in many cases, clandestine laboratories and illegal plantations have been established across the state to manufacture or grow controlled substances.
Drug manufacturers, growers, and traffickers frequently resort to violence to protect their distribution territories. Rival drug networks often engage in homicides, assaults, and even arson burning down competing facilities to eliminate competition. In 2009, law enforcement agencies in Georgia raided and seized 71 methamphetamine laboratories, with the Atlanta Police Department identifying four key areas where illegal labs were most concentrated.
The severity of drug-related crime in Atlanta is evident from the harsh penalties imposed under Georgia law a reflection of how serious and widespread the problem has become.
If you or a loved one are caught possessing more than 28 grams of cocaine in Georgia, the court is required to impose a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison. For possession of more than 200 grams, that minimum increases to 15 years behind bars.
If the amount in possession is between 4 and 14 grams, the minimum penalty is 5 years in prison. Possessing more than 14 grams but less than 28 grams carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years. However, if the amount exceeds 28 grams, the court will impose a minimum sentence of 25 years.
These strict penalties show how aggressively Georgia prosecutes drug possession and trafficking cases, especially in and around Atlanta. Anyone facing these charges should seek experienced legal representation immediately to protect their rights and future.
If you are caught with 28 grams or more of crack cocaine, you face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison under Georgia law. Crack cocaine, also known as methamphetamine or amphetamine, is treated as a highly dangerous controlled substance.
If the amount in possession exceeds 200 grams, the minimum prison sentence increases to 15 years. These severe penalties reflect the state’s tough stance on drug trafficking and possession, making it critical to have an experienced personal injury attorney on your side to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
You might assume that since marijuana is legal in some states, the same applies to Georgia but that’s not the case. In Georgia, marijuana oil is only legal for medicinal use, and even then, it must be prescribed by a licensed physician. Patients are permitted to possess no more than 20 cc of marijuana oil for approved medical purposes.
Marijuana trafficking involves the cultivation, distribution, or sale of marijuana plants or dried cannabis. Under Georgia law, this is a serious felony offense. If you are caught with 10 pounds or more of marijuana, you face a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 5 years. Because of these strict penalties, it’s crucial to seek qualified legal representation if you’re facing marijuana-related charges.
Drug offenders are often not who you might expect. Research shows that urban professionals and high-achieving students are among those frequently arrested for drug possession in Georgia. The 18–25 age group records the highest rates of drug use and addiction. Many professionals turn to drugs to manage the stress of demanding careers, while students claim substances help them keep up academically. The most commonly used drugs among this age range include crack cocaine, opioids, and marijuana all easily accessible on Atlanta’s streets.
Is your high school student at risk? Have they fallen in with the wrong crowd or come under investigation for drug possession or intent to distribute? If your child has been arrested or accused of drug trafficking, don’t wait, contact an experienced Atlanta personal injury attorney immediately to protect their rights and future.
First, a personal injury attorney can clearly explain your rights following an arrest. They will review the evidence gathered against you, outline your legal options, and discuss the potential penalties you may face. Having this understanding is crucial, it allows you to make informed decisions about your case and take the right steps to protect your future.
A personal injury lawyer can carefully evaluate the evidence presented against you and provide an honest assessment of its strengths and weaknesses. They can also help you gather additional evidence to support your defense whether that means proving your innocence or demonstrating that law enforcement lacks sufficient proof to justify the charges.
Third, a personal injury attorney can help you build a strong legal defense based on the specific facts of your case. They will determine which defense strategy best fits your situation and may file a motion to dismiss if the police made procedural errors. Your attorney can also request that the court exclude any illegally obtained evidence and seek to lower your bail amount so you can return home while awaiting trial.
Additionally, your lawyer can negotiate with the district attorney through a process known as plea bargaining. This negotiation can sometimes lead to reduced charges or allow you to be charged with a lesser offense, depending on the strength of the evidence and the circumstances of your case.
Fourth, a personal injury attorney can help you prepare thoroughly for your court appearance. They will assist in the jury selection process, ensuring an impartial panel is chosen for your case. Your attorney will also help you review and analyze witness testimonies to identify inconsistencies or weaknesses that can be challenged during cross-examination. If you plan to testify in your own defense, they will guide you through the process and help you prepare your statements and responses to ensure you present yourself confidently and effectively in court.
Fifth, a personal injury attorney will advocate for you in court, presenting arguments based on both law and fact to demonstrate that you should not be found guilty. They will challenge the prosecution’s case, highlight inconsistencies, and emphasize any evidence that supports your innocence.
If you are convicted, your attorney can still argue for leniency, presenting mitigating circumstances that may persuade the court to reduce your sentence or impose alternative penalties instead of jail time.
If you are convicted, your personal injury attorney can file an appeal on your behalf to challenge the court’s decision. If you decide not to appeal, your lawyer can still request post-conviction relief, such as probation or other alternatives to incarceration.
Once you’ve served your sentence, your attorney can also petition the court for your release, applying for parole or a commutation of your sentence based on good behavior and rehabilitation efforts. Their continued advocacy ensures that your rights are protected even after conviction.
A personal injury attorney can also petition the court to restrict or seal your criminal record if you qualify. This means your conviction will no longer be accessible to the public including potential employers or college admissions officers. By having your record restricted, you can move forward with your life, rebuild your reputation, and pursue new opportunities without the burden of a visible criminal history.
No one expects to be arrested or charged with a crime, but when it happens, legal guidance is crucial. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, speak with an experienced personal injury attorney right away.
Never give a statement to the police before consulting your lawyer. You have the right to remain silent and the right to legal counsel, use those rights to protect yourself. Having a skilled attorney on your side won’t erase your legal troubles instantly, but it will ensure you’re defended, guided, and supported every step of the way.
The personal injury attorneys at Cobb Personal Injury have extensive experience successfully defending clients across Georgia. Their team of skilled and knowledgeable lawyers is dedicated to protecting your rights and guiding you through every step of the legal process. You can rely on their combined expertise and proven record of results to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Don’t wait, call today to speak with an experienced attorney and get the legal support you need.
At Cobb Personal Injury, we bring together decades of legal experience and a deep commitment to client advocacy. Our team is known for delivering personalized strategies, transparent communication, and relentless pursuit of justice. Whether you are navigating a personal injury claim, civil rights matter, or another legal challenge, we stand by your side with compassion and clarity.
At The Law Office of Gregory Chancy, we provide dedicated support whether you’ve been injured in an accident or are facing criminal charges. When you choose our firm, you’re more than a client, you’re part of our family. You will have direct access to me and my team, consistent communication, and determined representation crafted to meet your unique legal needs.
We represent clients facing charges such as DUI, assault, drug-related offenses, and other criminal matters. Committed to safeguarding your rights, we pursue the most favorable outcome for your case.
We represent clients who have been injured in accidents, including car crashes, slip and falls, workplace incidents, and more. Focused on protecting your rights, we fight to secure the compensation you deserve.
