A drug conviction in South Carolina carries serious consequences that can impact every aspect of your life—from your freedom to your professional career. The fear of harsh penalties, damage to your reputation, and the potential impact on your future can weigh heavily.
A potential conviction often comes with countless questions: What will happen to me? Will this affect my job? Can I fight these charges?
South Carolina drug laws are strict, and the distinction between possession and trafficking can make a huge difference in how your case is handled. South Carolina possession laws may impose penalties based on the amount and type of substance found. And when it comes to drug trafficking, even 1st offense drug trafficking in South Carolina can lead to severe, life-altering consequences.
With the right legal support, there are ways to navigate these charges, minimize their impact, and even fight back. At Savage, Royall & Sheheen, LLP, we understand the personal and professional toll a drug conviction can take, and we’re here to stand by your side, offering experienced legal representation when you need it most.
Penalties for Drug Conviction
Drug crimes in South Carolina come with serious penalties. Common offenses include:
Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking involves transporting or selling illegal substances. Penalties vary based on the drug and amount involved:
- Marijuana Trafficking: 10 to 11 lbs can lead to 1-10 years in prison for first offenders, while over 10,000 lbs results in 25-30 years without parole and fines up to $200,000.
- Cocaine Trafficking: Trafficking 10 to 28 grams can result in 3-10 years, increasing to 25-30 years for over 400 grams.
Drug Sales
Selling drugs, whether on the street or in organized operations, leads to severe penalties.
Marijuana sales can result in 5-20 years, and cocaine distribution carries penalties of 15-30 years and up to $50,000 in fines.
Drug Manufacturing
Producing drugs like methamphetamine is a felony. 1st offense drug trafficking in South Carolina can lead to up to 15 years in prison, increasing for repeat offenses.
Drug Possession
South Carolina possession laws dictate that charges depend on the drug type and amount:
- Marijuana: Simple possession (under 1 ounce) is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail, while larger amounts result in felony charges.
- Cocaine and Methamphetamine: Possession of less than 1 gram of cocaine or meth is punishable by 3-10 years in prison.
Impact on Professional Licenses and Employment
A drug conviction doesn’t just result in legal penalties—it can also seriously disrupt your professional life. If you hold a professional license in fields like healthcare, law, or education, even a minor drug conviction can put your career at risk.
Licensing boards often review criminal records, and a conviction for drug possession or trafficking can lead to suspension or even revocation of your license.
Losing your license isn’t the only risk, either. Employment opportunities can shrink when you have a drug conviction on your record.
Employers often run background checks, and seeing a drug-related offense can make them hesitant to hire. You could find yourself in a position where you’re qualified (or even over-qualified) for the job but are passed over, simply because of your criminal record.
A conviction can also affect your ability to pursue professional development. Many schools and training programs require background checks, and a drug conviction may make it harder to gain admission or qualify for financial aid. The ripple effect of a drug conviction on your career and future opportunities is real—and it’s something that can follow you for years, if not a lifetime.
How We Can Help
We understand the intense anxiety and uncertainty that surround facing drug charges. Our approach is to treat every case with the attention and compassion it deserves because we know that behind every charge, there’s a story and a future at stake. Here’s how we can assist you during this challenging time:
- Protecting Your Rights: From the moment you engage our services, our priority is to protect your rights. Our drug crimes lawyers meticulously examine the circumstances of your arrest and the evidence against you, challenging any discrepancies or procedural errors that could impact the fairness of your case.
- Offering Expert Negotiation: Negotiating with prosecutors is more than just striking a deal. It’s about presenting your case in a way that highlights mitigating factors and advocates for reduced charges or alternative penalties. We leverage our extensive expertise and local legal relationships to negotiate effectively on your behalf.
- Support Through the Process: Legal proceedings can be overwhelming and isolating. We ensure you’re not alone—explaining every step, answering your questions, and keeping you informed. We aim to make the process clear and stress-free, providing support and guidance throughout.
- Preparation for All Outcomes: While we strive to secure a dismissal or the best possible settlement, we prepare for all potential outcomes, including trial. Our team is ready to defend your rights in court with robust evidence and compelling arguments if required.
Contact Our South Carolina Drug Crimes Lawyers
A drug conviction can turn your life upside down, and the consequences often reach far beyond fines or jail time. From the stigma of having a criminal record to losing professional opportunities, the impact is often far-reaching.
With the right legal team by your side, you can fight the charges and work towards a better outcome. Savage, Royall & Sheheen, LLP, have over 97 years of experience serving individual clients, community businesses, and local governments. Some of our attorneys have held state government and judicial positions, while others are proud Rotarians, embodying a dedication to service. This history not only gives us a unique perspective but also means we have the resources and experience to take on even the most complex drug-related cases.
We believe that every case deserves personal attention, and we are committed to fighting for the best possible outcome for you. Contact us for a consultation at 803-432-4391, and let us help you get back on track.