What Penalties Does My Juvenile Child Face for Marijuana Possession in Woodstock?

Few things can make a parent’s heart skip a beat, like finding out their child is in legal trouble. A juvenile marijuana possession charge can feel like a storm cloud threatening your child’s future.

But here’s the silver lining: with the right guidance, this doesn’t have to define their life.

Marijuana Possession Laws in Georgia

Under Georgia law, marijuana possession is classified based on the amount of marijuana:

For Less Than One Ounce Cases (O.C.G.A. § 16-13-2):

While adults face specific fines and jail time, people under 17 will generally be charged in juvenile courts, which operate differently.

For misdemeanor cases, judges have broad discretion and may order:

• Probation (supervised or unsupervised)
• Counseling for the child and/or parents
• High school diploma or GED completion requirements
• Community service
• Driver’s license suspension

For More Than One Ounce Cases (O.C.G.A. § 16-13-30):

These are treated as felonies and give judges additional options beyond the above penalties:

• Placement in institutions/camps for delinquent children
• Department of Juvenile Justice commitment
• Up to 30 days in juvenile detention

For people under 17, these charges are typically heard in  Cherokee County Juvenile Court, which leans more toward rehabilitation than punishment. Still, the weight of these penalties can’t be underestimated—they’re not just a slap on the wrist.

Juvenile Court Considerations

Here in Georgia, the courts aim to steer minors away from a future of trouble. Think of the system as a ladder, helping kids climb out of a bad situation rather than letting them fall deeper.

When deciding penalties, the courts look at:

• How much marijuana was involved
• Whether there’s evidence of intent to distribute.
• The minor’s prior record (a clean slate helps!).
• Where it happened—were they near a school or another drug-free zone?

Potential Penalties for Juveniles

For minors, consequences might include:

• Probation: Regular check-ins with a probation officer to keep things on track.
• Community Service: Giving back—a chance to learn and grow. For example, minors might clean up parks, assist nonprofit organizations, or participate in youth mentoring programs.
• Drug Counseling Programs: Education about the risks and impact of controlled substance use, which can provide them with tools to make better choices moving forward.
• Juvenile Detention: Reserved for more severe or repeat offenses. While this is less common, it’s important to know the stakes.
• Diversion Programs: A lifeline for first-time offenders, helping them avoid formal charges by completing specific requirements like drug education classes or a set number of volunteer hours.

At Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm, we’ve walked this road with many families. Helping kids avoid lasting consequences is what we’re all about. For some of our clients, we’ve been able to negotiate resolutions that emphasize growth and education instead of punishment.

Constructive vs. Actual Possession in Woodstock, GA

Possession charges boil down to how the marijuana was found:

• Actual Possession: It’s on your child’s person—their pocket, their backpack.
• Constructive Possession: It’s in a space they control—like a shared car—and there’s evidence they knew about it and intended to possess it.

Imagine your child is in a car with friends, and marijuana is found under the seat. Even if they didn’t bring it, they could still face constructive possession charges. These distinctions are critical. Knowing the difference can shape the defense strategy.

Defending Against a Marijuana Possession Charge

Your attorney might explore criminal defense strategies like:

1. Unawareness: Maybe your child didn’t know the marijuana was there. This can be particularly relevant in cases of constructive possession.
2. Illegal Search and Seizure: Was the search lawful? If not, the evidence could be thrown out.
3. Insufficient Evidence: Does the prosecution have enough to prove the charge? Sometimes, the evidence just doesn’t hold up.
4. Diversion Eligibility: Could your child qualify for a program to avoid formal charges?

Attorneys are there to do more than just argue legal points in court—they’re the steady hand families need when things feel overwhelming. They help explain what’s happening in plain language, cut through the legal jargon, and make sure every step taken is in your child’s best interest.

At Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm, we don’t just handle cases—we guide families. One mistake shouldn’t derail your child’s future. We’ve seen it all and know how to work with the system to get the best results.

What Should You Do If Your Child Is Charged with Marijuana Possession?

If your child is facing charges, here’s what you can do:

1. Take a Breath: Stay calm. Your child needs your support.
2. Hire an Attorney: Don’t navigate this alone—an expert can make all the difference.
3. Gather Evidence: Begin making a list of any information that could be important to your defense.
4. Follow the Rules: Make sure your child complies with court instructions.

This process is a lot for a young person to handle. Let them know they’re not alone. Talk to them, support them, and remind them that this is a hurdle—not the end of the road. Share stories of resilience and growth to inspire hope.

Get Legal Help for Underage Drug Possession in Georgia

A drug possession charge is serious, but it’s not the end of your child’s story. In Woodstock, Georgia, penalties can range from probation to juvenile detention. The right approach can make all the difference in how this chapter ends.

At Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm, we believe in second chances. We’re here to help your child navigate this challenge and move forward with their life. 

Contact us today—because the sooner we start, the better the outcome can be.