Drug Laws in South Carolina
What You Need to Know about Drug Laws in South Carolina
According to drug laws in South Carolina, defendants facing penalties can be punished with a monetary fine and mandatory minimum sentences of up to life in prison with no chance of parole, depending on:
- The amount of drugs involved.
- Whether the case is brought in state or federal district court.
- How many prior drug offenses a defendant has.
A Drug Charge is a serious crime that can lead to future consequences. A conviction or bond forfeiture even for a simple possession conviction creates a criminal record and requires automatic suspension of your driver’s license. Other consequences include, but are not limited to:
- Loss of Job Opportunities
- Educational Opportunities
- Military Opportunities
Drug Offenses in South Carolina Carry Enhancements
If you are arrested and have a prior drug conviction, you potentially face a mandatory prison sentence in both State and Federal Court.
If you are convicted of any drug offense, another drug offense charge regardless of the charge will be a second drug offense, even if the drugs or charges involved differ from the first offense.
For example, if you are 18 years old and you pay a fine for a Simple Possession of Marijuana charge, this would be your first drug conviction. Eight years later, at the age of 26, if you are charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute Crack Cocaine, this is a second drug offense and you will be facing a mandatory minimum of five (5) to (30) years in prison with no parole.
Additional drug penalties include:
- Asset Forfeiture
- Impounding of your car
- Seizure of your home or property if drugs were found on the premises
- Seizure of cash
- Loss of business or professional licenses
- Restrictions on owning guns or firearms
We are dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients, providing aggressive representation grounded with years of experience building, writing and interpreting the laws of South Carolina. Contact us today to discuss the facts of your case.