Conway Drug Possession Attorney

Drug possession charges are some of the most common criminal charges in South Carolina, and if you’re facing such a charge, you should take the matter as seriously as the state does. Working closely with an experienced Conway, SC, drug possession attorney from the outset is the surest means of protecting your rights – in pursuit of a favorable case resolution.

South Carolina Takes a Harsh Stance

South Carolina is known for its tough position on drug possession. In fact, they implement mandatory minimum sentences for many offenses, which means that – if convicted – defendants must serve specific sentences and that the presiding judges have little discretion in the matter.

Factors like the following can all play a role in the severity of the drug possession charge and the attendant penalties:

• The kind of drug involved
• The amount of the drug involved
• Any prior criminal history
• The unique circumstances of the specific case

South Carolina employs enhanced sentencing for repeat offenders.

Simple Possession

The charge of simple possession of a controlled substance relates to having a small amount of a drug in your possession – with no intention of distributing it. The drugs that are most commonly associated with simple possession charges include marijuana, methamphetamine, and cocaine.

For example, simple possession of under an ounce of marijuana for a first offense carries fines of up to $200 and a jail sentence of up to 30 days. The penalties for simple possession of methamphetamine and cocaine, however, are far harsher.

While many states have legalized recreational marijuana, South Carolina is not among them. The State has, however, softened its position on the matter somewhat, and legislation regarding the legalization of possession of less than an ounce for recreational use is pending.

Possession with Intent to Distribute

The charge of possession with intent to distribute refers to possessing a drug with the intention of selling it to others, and it is an even more serious charge. In fact, a first offense – including possession of marijuana with intent to distribute – is punishable by up to five years in prison.

How an Attorney Can Help

The single most important step you can take in the face of a drug possession charge is hiring a savvy drug possession defense attorney who will ably handle all the following primary tasks:

• Ensuring that your constitutional rights are well protected, including in relation to search and seizure
• Building your strongest defense
• Attempting to have the case against you dropped and, barring that, skillfully negotiating with the prosecution for an advantageous plea deal
• Taking your case to court if the circumstances call for it
• Appealing a conviction in the event procedural errors were made

An Experienced Conway Drug Possession Attorney Is on Your Side

The focused Conway, SC, drug possession attorneys at the Law Offices of L. Morgan Martin, P.A., have the experience and legal insight to help guide your case toward an optimal outcome that supports your rights and future. To learn more, please don’t wait to contact us online or call 843-248-3177 today.