Drug possession might not be as serious as trafficking, but it can still dramatically affect your criminal record, reputation, career opportunities, and much more. A possession conviction can also lead to jail time, mandatory treatment, community service, fines, and other penalties. Our drug possession defense attorney can help you fight for your rights.
Why Hire a Drug Possession Lawyer?
There is no requirement to hire a drug defense lawyer in South Carolina. You are free to “represent yourself,” although most defendants choose to work with lawyers. If you cannot afford to hire a private defense lawyer, the state will provide you with a “public defender” free of charge. It may be worth paying for a private defense attorney if you have the available resources, as these legal professionals arguably have more of an incentive to fight for your rights.
What is the Penalty for Marijuana Possession?
According to NORML, possession of 1 ounce of marijuana or less is a misdemeanor. This can lead to a relatively small fine. Jail time may be unlikely, especially if this is your first offense. In South Carolina, marijuana is in its own special category, and the courts do not treat it the same way as many other “harder” drugs.
That being said, it still makes sense to fight for your rights if you face even the lowest-level marijuana charge in South Carolina. A conviction can still affect your reputation, career, housing, and other aspects of your life. You can face more serious charges if you are caught with greater quantities, especially if the authorities believe you were distributing marijuana to other people.
Potential Defenses to Drug Possession
Various defense strategies can apply to your situation. To choose the most appropriate defense, you need to consider your unique circumstances. One option is to pursue a plea deal. This involves pleading guilty in exchange for a (hopefully) lighter sentence. This may be a practical choice if the evidence against you seems insurmountable.
Another strategy could be to challenge the constitutionality of your search or seizure. For example, a police officer might have pulled you over without justification. The officer could have fabricated an offense you never committed. Perhaps an officer planted evidence on you. Regardless of the circumstances, evidence obtained through an unconstitutional search is inadmissible in court.
Where Can I Find a Drug Possession Defense Lawyer in Greenville, SC?
Not all criminal defense lawyers have specific experience with drug possession charges. It makes sense to work with a lawyer who has handled these types of cases before. To learn more about the next potential steps in your defense plan, contact Beasley Tomlinson Law at 864-712-4282 or visit us online.
