Goose Creek Drug Lawyer

Prosecutors treat drug crimes harshly. Drug convictions can lead to many years in prison, high fines, and even the loss of constitutional rights. Whether you face misdemeanor or felony offenses, consulting a skilled criminal defense attorney could make all the difference in protecting your future.

A Goose Creek drug lawyer could begin building a case to try and get your charges reduced or even dismissed. Our team has years of experience with similar cases and is prepared to fight for your rights.

Misdemeanor and Felony Drug Charges

State drug charges fall into two categories: misdemeanors and felonies. A misdemeanor drug charge can result in up to one year in jail and a substantial fine if convicted. While they are less severe than felony drug charges, misdemeanors still appear on someone’s criminal record and have a lasting impact on someone’s life, including their ability to get a job.

Felony drug charges are the most severe form of drug crime. These charges can result in decades in prison and even higher fines. Fortunately, defending these charges could result in reduced sentencing or a case dismissal. A diligent attorney in Goose Creek could help someone understand the exact nature of the charges they are facing.

Common Drug Offenses in Goose Creek

South Carolina Code § 44 outlines the state’s definitions of various drug offenses and the penalties courts may impose for them upon conviction. The penalties for each offense depend on the level of the crime, including whether it is a felony or misdemeanor. An experienced attorney in Goose Creek could further explain these distinctions and their relevance to a specific drug case.

There are many types of drug offenses, but these are some of the most common charges.

Drug Possession

If a defendant has drugs on their person or in their control, they could face a possession charge. The severity of penalties depends on the type of controlled substance and the amount found in possession.

Possession with Intent to Distribute

Possession with intent to distribute is one of the more severe drug crimes. If someone possesses a substantial amount of drugs, prosecutors may argue the defendant intended to sell them. Prosecutors can make this claim without direct proof that the person had or would sell the drug. Similar charges apply to any form of drug manufacturing, and penalties depend on the specific substance and number of previous convictions.

Drug Trafficking

Drug trafficking does not necessarily mean carrying a controlled substance across state or federal borders. Someone could face a trafficking charge if they are found carrying an excessive quantity of a drug. These charges are usually felonies and could result in years in prison.

Defending a Drug Case

Anyone charged with a drug crime has the right to try and get these charges reduced or dismissed. Defenses to these charges can include:

• Arguing the alleged offense is a case of mistaken identity
• Arguing that illegal evidence was suppressed
• Showing that there was no intent to sell
• Challenging chemical tests for the drugs
• Showing that the quantity of drugs was less than the charges claim

Prosecutors may advocate for extreme penalties, even without evidence to support their claims. A capable drug attorney could build a case to help challenge a prosecutor’s claims and prove these defenses in court.

Get Help from a Goose Creek Drug Attorney Now

Drug charges could gravely affect your reputation and compromise your freedom. You deserve help from someone with the knowledge and skill to navigate the complexities of the legal system and pursue a favorable outcome on your behalf.

An experienced Goose Creek drug lawyer knows how these cases are prosecuted and could help build the best possible defense in your unique circumstances. Contact us now to learn more.