Columbia Possession of Controlled Substance Lawyer

The South Carolina Criminal Code regulates controlled dangerous substance (CDS) possession within the State. It also defines CDS and establishes penalties for CDS possession of controlled substance.

If you are facing a CDS charges in Columbia, a conviction can land you in jail and result in other serious penalties. A Columbia possession of controlled substance lawyer can help you defend your charge in court at a criminal trial. Call a skilled attorney today to discuss your case.

Drugs Classified as CDS

Columbia courts consider various street drugs as CDS under the law. Some of those drugs include:

• Cocaine
• Marijuana
• Heroin

In addition to the drugs themselves, the compounds used in manufacturing these drugs also fit within the definition of CDS.

CDS Classifications

The South Carolina Criminal Code classifies CDS into five categories, or “schedules.” Schedule I drugs are the most addictive and dangerous drugs and have no medical use.

Schedule II, III, IV, and V drugs are increasingly less dangerous. Schedule V drugs even have some medical value.

If a law enforcement officer arrests someone for CDS possession, a Columbia possession of controlled substance lawyer could let the arrestee know which schedule their drug fits into.

Penalties for Possessing Schedule I and II Narcotics and other Type of CDS

Penalties for CDS possession of controlled substance in Columbia can be harsh. A person who sustains a conviction for possessing a Schedule I or Schedule II narcotic CDS (including lysergic acid diethylamide – or LSD) is guilty of a misdemeanor. A first-time offender may face a maximum fine of $5,000 and/or a maximum of two years’ incarceration.

A second offense of this type is a felony and can result in a $5,000 fine and/or five years’ incarceration. Third, fourth, and subsequent offenses can lead to a $10,000 fine and/or five years’ incarceration.

Penalties for Possessing other Types of Schedule I, II, III, IV, or V CDS

Individuals who sustain convictions for possessing all other types of Schedule I, II, III, IV, or V CDS, except for cocaine, are guilty of a misdemeanor. A first-time offender may face a maximum monetary fine of $1,000 and/or six months’ incarceration. Individuals who sustain a second or subsequent conviction will sustain a maximum $2,000 fine and/or one years’ incarceration.

Special Penalties for Cocaine Possession

Special penalties apply to cocaine possession in Columbia. A person who sustains a conviction for cocaine possession is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by a $5,000 maximum fine and/or three years’ incarceration.

A second-time offender can face a $7,500 fine and/or five years’ incarceration. Third-time and subsequent offenders face a maximum $12,500 fine and/or ten years’ incarceration.

Contact a Columbia Possession of Controlled Substance Attorney Today

Drug possession, sale, distribution, and trafficking are serious crimes. As a result, these crimes – including CDS possession – incur significant monetary fines and jail time. In addition to these potential penalties, a conviction for CDS possession can put your personal life on hold and prevent you from keeping your job or finding a decent place to live.

If the State has charged you with CDS possession, you need a skilled criminal defense lawyer advocating for you in court. A Columbia possession of controlled substance lawyer can represent you throughout your case and help you obtain the best result possible.