Being charged with drug possession in South Carolina is a serious criminal offense that carries harsh penalties including steep fines, jail time, and the burden of a permanent criminal record. If you have been charged with drug possession, understanding the steps you can take to safeguard yourself in these matters is vital. Please continue reading as we explore what you should know and how a skilled Chesterfield County Drug Crime Lawyer can help you navigate your legal options.
What Can I Expect if I’m Convicted of Drug Possession in South Carolina?
Like most states, South Carolina has a classification system for controlled dangerous substances. The state divides drugs into five schedules based on their currently accepted medical use in treatment, their relative abuse potential, and the likelihood of causing dependence when abused. Schedule I includes the most serious drugs, with the highest potential for abuse, whereas Schedule V represents drugs that have the lowest potential for abuse. The severity of the penalties you can face for drug possession is based on the type of drug in question, the quantity of the drug allegedly in your possession, and aggravating factors that may apply to your case.
What Can I Do to Help My Case?
In the unfortunate event that you have been charged with drug possession in South Carolina, it’s advisable to enlist the help of a criminal defense attorney. The negative effects of a criminal conviction can have long-lasting consequences that are detrimental to your future. A seasoned attorney can help determine the best course of action given the unique circumstances of your case.
Unfortunately, many criminal defendants lose all hope when arrested, believing there is nothing they can do. However, this is far from the truth. Criminal defendants have constitutional protections, which you should familiarize yourself with to ensure they are not violated.
First, you should understand that under the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution, you have the right to remain silent. In other words, you don’t have to speak to law enforcement. When interacting with the police, you are only obligated to provide them with basic information. Therefore, you should avoid making statements without your attorney present.
The most important thing you should keep in mind is that you have the right to an attorney. It’s imperative to connect with an experienced criminal defense attorney as they can provide you with the best opportunity to protect yourself during this difficult time.
At the Cockrell Law Firm, P.C., we are prepared to explore the best avenue of defense to handle your narcotic or controlled substance offense and bring back satisfying results. Connect with our firm today to learn more about what we can do for you during these difficult times.
