Former Atlanta Prosecuting Attorney Defending You From Marijuana Possession
Last updated on November 20, 2025
In Georgia, possession of marijuana is still prosecuted as a criminal offense, even as other states move toward legalization. That is why you need my criminal defense services. I am Kyle H. Jarzmik, a marijuana possession lawyer serving Atlanta and the Atlanta metro area.
As a former prosecutor, I know how to counter the state’s case against you. At my law firm, Kyle H. Jarzmik Law, you will find the experienced, reliable counsel that you need. I believe in fighting for your future so that a charge of possession of marijuana does not ruin it.
Georgia’s Marijuana Possession Charges: What To Know
Our state treats the possession of marijuana very seriously. In fact, the only drug possession crime in Georgia that is a misdemeanor rather than a felony is possession of marijuana less than one ounce. Fortunately, more and more courts are offering drug courts for felony possession of drugs, whether it is marijuana, cocaine, meth or heroin. Drug courts are special courts that allow people with substance abuse issues to receive help instead of going through the criminal justice system for drug charges.
These programs require taking responsibility for one’s actions. They are not appropriate for those who want to fight or litigate their case. Drug court involves a lot of addiction treatment, testing, counseling and monitoring from the court. The benefit is that it is an alternative to going to jail or prison and is aimed at breaking the addiction cycle. These programs are offered to users and are not offered to people charged with high quantities of drugs who are considered dealers. You should speak with a criminal defense lawyer to learn whether a drug court is appropriate for your case.
The Benefits Of Pretrial Diversion
In many courts, a person with no prior arrests on their record is offered pretrial diversion for a misdemeanor marijuana charge. Pretrial diversion refers to programs that offer offenders the chance to avoid criminal prosecution. The requirements typically include:
- A program fee of several hundred dollars
- Community service hours
- Several drug tests
- An alcohol and drug evaluation
- Any recommended treatment
The benefit of diversion is that when it is successfully completed, the court dismisses the case. As a result, the person charged has no criminal conviction on their record. The arrest record is restricted from the view of third parties like employers and schools. As a marijuana possession attorney, I have seen the positive side of pretrial diversion many times. When it is appropriate, I will fight persuasively to help clients get pretrial diversion instead of a trial.
Start Your Defense Today: Free Consultations With A Georgia Lawyer
If you’re charged with possession of a drug in Georgia, please contact me and we can discuss the various options for resolving your individual case. To speak with a criminal defense attorney, call me toll-free at 770-676-3565 or send me an email today. I offer free consultations.