South Carolina Drug Possession Lawyer

If you’ve been charged with drug possession in South Carolina, you’re not alone – these are among the most common criminal charges in the state. South Carolina takes all drug charges seriously, which makes it important to have an experienced South Carolina drug possession lawyer in your corner from the start.

Simple Possession vs. Possession with Intent to Distribute

If you’re charged with simple possession, it refers to being caught with a small amount of an illegal drug on you – when there is no indication that you had any intention of distributing the substance to anyone else. The charge of possession with intent to distribute, on the other hand, relates to the defendant’s alleged intention to sell or distribute the drug to others, which elevates the charge. Even first-offense convictions for possession with intent charges can carry five-year prison sentences, including when the controlled substance is marijuana.

Marijuana

Although recreational marijuana has achieved legal status in many states across the nation, the same is not true in South Carolina. In fact, even medical marijuana remains illegal in the state. A first charge of simple possession of less than an ounce of marijuana is a misdemeanor that can carry fines of up to $200 and a sentence of up to 30 days in jail. The state does, however, take a less harsh stance on possession of marijuana than it does on other common illegal drugs, including cocaine and methamphetamine.

South Carolina Takes a Firm Position against Illegal Drugs

South Carolina distinguishes itself by taking its drug charges exceptionally seriously, and some come with mandatory minimum sentences, which means there is no room for sentencing discretion if you’re convicted of such a charge. The severity of drug possession charges hinges on factors like the following:

• The kind of drug you’re found in possession of
• The amount of the illegal drug you’re found in possession of
• Whether or not you have any prior criminal history – in South Carolina, repeat offenders face enhanced sentencing with harsher penalties and steeper fines

Every drug possession case is unique to the specific circumstances involved – with one universal element, which is that having skilled legal guidance on your side can make a serious difference in how your case is resolved.

Mandatory Minimum Sentences

Mandatory minimum sentences for specific convictions make possession charges in the State of South Carolina that much more serious. Consider the following two primary examples:

• A third offense for possession with intent to distribute marijuana carries a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison.
• A second offense for possession with intent to distribute cocaine or heroin carries a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison and fines of up to $50,000.

It’s Time to Consult with an Experienced South Carolina Drug Possession Lawyer

Matthew Swilley at Swilley Law Firm, LLC – proudly serving the State of South Carolina – is a trusted drug possession lawyer who will spare no effort in his fierce advocacy of your rights and in his fierce pursuit of your case’s optimal outcome. We’re on your side and here to help, so please don’t wait to contact us online or call 843-773-2789 for more information today.