Navigating Possession of Controlled Substance Charges in South Carolina with Strom Law Firm

Drug charges in South Carolina are taken very seriously and can result in severe penalties, including hefty fines, imprisonment, probation, and a permanent criminal record. The state classifies drug offenses based on the type and amount of controlled substances involved, ranging from simple possession to trafficking and manufacturing. Common charges include possession of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and prescription drugs without a valid prescription. Convictions can have life-altering consequences, impacting employment, housing, and professional licenses. South Carolina law enforcement aggressively pursues drug-related crimes, and penalties can be enhanced if the offense occurs near schools or involves minors. Legal defenses against drug charges may involve challenging illegal searches and seizures, proving lack of intent, or establishing lawful possession. Given the complexity and seriousness of drug-related cases, it is essential to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands South Carolina’s drug laws and can effectively navigate the legal process.

Facing Drug Charges? Understand Your Rights and Defense Options

Prescription drug crimes (possession of a controlled substance) in South Carolina can lead to serious consequences, including imprisonment, fines, or the loss of a professional license.  According to SC law, prescription drugs are classified as Schedule I-Schedule VI drugs with Schedule I drug offenses having the most severe punishments.  While you can get arrested for possessing or distributing these drugs, SC law also prohibits doctors from illegally prescribing drugs and doing so could result in the loss of your professional license as well as criminal charges.

Examples of Common Illegal Drugs

Common Schedule I drugs have no acceptable medical use in the US and include, but are not limited to:

• Heroin (Opiates)
• MDMA, Ecstasy, and LSD (Hallucinogens)
• Mephedrone (Stimulants)
• Qualuudes (Depressants)
• LSD

Schedule II drugs are often used in the treatment of medical disorders. They include, but are not limited to:

• Ritalin and Adderall
• Fentanyl
• Methadone
• Hydrocodone (Oxycontin)

Schedule III drugs are accepted as treatment for medical conditions and have a moderate potential for addiction.  Some common examples are:

• Vicodin
• Lorcet

Schedule IV drugs are commonly used for medical treatment, and have a low risk of dependence, such as:

• Valium
• Xanax
• Stimulants like weight loss pills

Schedule V drugs are widely known and used in the medical community but have restrictions on how many purchases a person can make in a certain time period:

• Cough syrups with codeine
• Pseudoephedrine (commonly known as Sudafed)

The penalties for possession, distribution, or manufacturing any of these drugs are stiff and the consequences of a conviction can cause permanent damage to your professional or personal life.

Possession of a Controlled Substance Includes:

• Prescribing or writing illegal prescriptions
• Doctor shopping or attempting to obtain drugs by fraud or deceit
• Illegally possessing Schedule I-V drugs
• Selling Schedule I-V drugs
• Stealing or forging prescriptions for drugs

Why Choose Strom Law Firm for Your Possession of Controlled Substances Defense?

• Local Legal Expertise: While our office is in Columbia, we serve clients across SC, making us the lawyer near me you need for effective representation in drug possession cases.
• Comprehensive Legal Services: Beyond criminal defense, our firm’s experience in personal injury and complex litigation adds depth to our approach in handling your case.
• Client-First Philosophy: We understand the stress of facing drug charges and offer personalized attention to every case, striving for the best possible outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions About Possession of Controlled Substances Defense in SC

• Fines
• Jail or prison time
• Probation
• Mandatory drug treatment programs

Frequently Asked Questions About Possession of Controlled Substances Defense in SC

• Fines
• Jail or prison time
• Probation
• Mandatory drug treatment programs

• Invoke your right to remain silent.
• Request an attorney immediately.
• Do not consent to searches without a warrant.
• Contact Strom Law Firm as soon as possible.

• Unlawful search and seizure
• Lack of knowledge or possession
• Entrapment
• Misidentification of the substance

Why Strom Law Firm Stands Out for Possession of Controlled Substances Defense

• Experienced Advocacy: Our attorneys have a deep understanding of SC drug laws and defense strategies.
• Accessibility: Whether you’re in Columbia or elsewhere in SC, we’re the lawyer near me offering the defense you need.
• Confidential and Compassionate: We treat each case with confidentiality and understand the sensitive nature of drug charges.

Contact Us

If you have been charged with a crime by state or Federal Law Enforcement like the DEA relating to the abuse or unauthorized use of Schedule I-IV drugs, contact the attorneys at the Strom Law Firm today for a free consultation 803.252.4800. At Strom Law Firm, we’re more than just attorneys; we’re your advocates in times of legal need, dedicated to defending your rights and future.