Facing Drug Charges?

Our South Carolina Criminal Lawyer Will Fight for You

photo of a man busted for drugs

Drug offenses bring serious criminal charges, and the penalties for convictions are severe. If you have been accused of possession of drugs or other drug charges, do not plead guilty or attempt to fight the accusations without a South Carolina criminal defense lawyer at your side. The principal attorney at McGowan, Hood & Felder, LLC on criminal matters, Seth Rose, worked as a Richland County prosecutor before joining our firm. He prosecuted many drug offense cases in his former position, and his experience and working knowledge of criminal law and procedure are important assets he provides to his clients facing drug charges.

South Carolina Drug Laws and Drug Offense Penalties

Drug possession laws and penalties are based on three main factors:

  • They type of drugs involved,
  • The amount of drugs involved, and
  • Whether the person accused has prior offenses.

The amount of drugs involved will determine if you are charged with drug possession, distribution or trafficking. Besides these charges, a person may also face other criminal charges, such as:

  • Prescription drug fraud
  • Possession with intent to distribute within a half mile of a school
  • Possession of drug paraphernalia
  • Drug manufacturing

Drug offense penalties vary; both felonies and misdemeanors provide for different sentencing structures depending on the class. Class A felonies carry up to 30 years in prison, and even the lowest class of criminal misdemeanors provides for the potential for jail or prison, in addition to steep monetary fines.

How a South Carolina Criminal Lawyer Can Help You

If you have been arrested and charged with a drug offense, there are a few options to consider. An experienced criminal attorney will assist in deciding which option will serve you best, although the ultimate decision is yours alone.

  • Seek a conditional discharge. For minor drug charges, such as a first offense of misdemeanor possession, you may be eligible for a conditional discharge. You may be required to submit to periodic drug testing, attend drug counseling and/or perform community service.
  • Plead guilty. You will admit guilt in return for concessions, such as reduced charges or reduced penalties.
  • Trial by judge or jury. Every person accused of a crime is entitled to a trial by jury to contest the charges. Our attorneys have the knowledge and resources to search out evidence and witnesses to present your defense at trial.

If you have been accused of violating drug laws, do not hesitate to contact South Carolina criminal attorney Seth Rose at McGowan, Hood & Felder, LLC. We understand that there are two sides to every story, and we treat every client with dignity and respect. Your life is our mission, and our lawyers will do everything within the bounds of the law to ensure your legal rights are protected within the criminal justice system.

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