Facing drug possession charges in Aiken can be daunting and overwhelming. The legal consequences of a conviction can be severe, affecting your freedom, reputation, and future opportunities.
At Johnson, Johnson, Whittle, Lancer, & Staggs, we understand the challenges individuals face when accused of drug possession. Our experienced drug possession lawyer in Aiken are dedicated to providing strategic legal representation tailored to your unique situation.
We work tirelessly to protect your rights, explore all available defense options, and strive to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
If you’ve been charged with drug possession in Aiken, don’t navigate the legal system alone. Contact our Aiken drug crime lawyers today at (803) 649-5338 to schedule a consultation and learn how our drug possession lawyer Aiken can help defend your rights and advocate for your future.
Your freedom and future are worth fighting for, and we’re here to stand by your side every step of the way.
Understanding Drug Possession Charges
Drug possession can be described as willful possession of illegal or controlled substances such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine. The charges occur when the defendant is knowingly in possession of illegal drugs.
In South Carolina, drug possession is a heavily punishable offense that can take the form of fines, imprisonment, or community service. The severity of the punishment depends on factors such as the type of drug, amount, criminal history, and circumstances of your case.
If you’re found in possession of drugs, you need to find a drug possession lawyer in Aiken who understands drug possession charges. The legal team at Johnson, Johnson, Whittle, Lancer, and Staggs understand how serious the drug possession offense is in South Carolina.
We will clearly explain the charges and the consequences of your case. With us, you get an attorney ready to defend your rights and bring out the best possible result for your drug possession charges.
What Are the Types of Drug Possession Offenses?
While it’s true that South Carolina has the toughest laws regarding drug possession, not all possession is treated the same.
Simple Possession
Simple drug possession refers to being in possession of small amounts of drugs without the intent to distribute. If you’re found in first-time simple possession of marijuana, the penalties can be up to 30 days in jail with a fine of $200.
Cocaine possession attracts a penalty of up to 5 years in prison with a fine of $5000. Methamphetamine possession carries up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $10,000.
Possession with Intent to Distribute
If you’re found guilty of selling drugs to others in Aiken, you will be in for more trouble. The penalty will depend on your drug history, type of drug, and the amount found in your possession.
Possession with intent to distribute marijuana attracts up to 5 years in prison with a fine of $5000. Cocaine or methamphetamine possession with intent to distribute attracts up to 25 years in prison with a fine of up to $30,000.
Trafficking in Controlled Substances
You will be charged with drug trafficking if you sell, distribute, or import large amounts of drugs to the state. Trafficking marijuana attracts up to 25 years in prison with a fine of up to $25,000.
First-time offenses trafficking cocaine or methamphetamine attract up to 30 years in prison with a fine of $50,000.
What Qualifies as Drug Possession, and How is it Different from Other Offenses?
Drug possession charges can take the form of either actual or constructive possession. If the drugs are found in your pocket or your bag, it will be classified as actual possession. If the police find drugs in your car or house, you will be charged for constructive possession.
In actual drug possession, there’s no question of whether you knew the drugs were in your possession. In constructive possession, the state must prove you were in control. They may also prove that you knew the drugs were there.
Unlike other offenses, drug possession charges can become quite complicated, thanks to the circumstances involving the cases. For instance, it’s not easy to convince the jury that you didn’t know that what you were carrying were drugs.
How Can a Drug Possession Lawyer in Aiken Help in a Drug Possession Case?
A drug possession lawyer in Aiken, is here to defend you when you’re charged with drug possession. Understanding your rights when facing drug possession charges can be complicated.
You need a criminal defense lawyer who can:
- Protect your rights by ensuring a fair trial and verifying the credibility of the evidence
- Negotiate with prosecutors for possible reduction of charges or presentation of a plea
- Come up with an appropriate defense and represent you in court
- Advise with sentencing if you’re convicted
- File an appeal if you have grounds to dispute your sentencing
What Are Some Common Defenses Against Drug Possession Charges?
Having a strong defense in your favor can have you walk out scot-free from drug possession charges.
The possible defenses our drug possession lawyer in Aiken may use for drug possession include:
- The drugs do not belong to you
- You were not aware of the presence of drugs
- Illegal search or seizure
- The evidence presented is not credible
- You were a victim of entrapment
- You have a valid drug prescription
If are facing criminal charges, call our experienced drug possession lawyer in Aiken for a consultation today.
What Are the Potential Consequences of a Drug Possession Conviction?
South Carolina has very strict laws when it comes to drug possession. Conviction leaves a criminal record that may not be easy to erase. If you’re convicted, you must prepare to face legal consequences as well as social challenges.
Legal consequences of drug possession conviction include:
- A jail term of a period depending on the facts in your case (circumstances, amount, type, and history)
- Fine amount subject to the facts in your case (circumstances, amount, type, and history)
- Mandatory rehabilitation programs
There are also social consequences, including:
- Difficulty finding a job
- Difficulty renting a house
- Difficulty in obtaining further studies
- Difficulty acquiring a home loan
- Problems maintaining a social standing
If you or a loved one have been charged with drug crimes, your best choice is to contact a knowledgeable and skilled drug possession lawyer in Aiken immediately.
Is it Possible to Have Drug Possession Charges Reduced or Dismissed?
To successfully charge you for drug possession, the prosecution must have sufficient and legally obtained evidence. Your drug possession lawyer in Aiken can skillfully advocate for the drop of your case by dismissing the evidence presented.
They can prove that the evidence was illegally obtained or the search violated your rights.
You can also have the charges reduced by proceeding to drug court, where you’ll be accused of drug problem rather than possession. In this case, you’ll have to complete an 18-month program consisting of counseling, drug testing, and check-ins.
Finally, you can make a plea deal. This is where you face a less serious charge or plead guilty in exchange for a less severe penalty. In this case, your attorney will work with you to weigh the options before making a decision.
Our Approach to Drug Possession Defense
At Johnson, Johnson, Whittle, Lancer and Staggs, our drug possession lawyer in Aiken will do everything to ensure you’re acquitted of drug possession.
Our approach at JJWLS includes:
Thorough Case Analysis
The first thing our drug possession lawyer in Aiken do is come up with a strategy for challenging the prosecution evidence. We do this through a comprehensive review process that analyzes the search and seizure procedures, dismisses the evidence, and finds weaknesses in the prosecution.
Strategic Defense Strategies
For our drug possession lawyer in Aiken, our defense strategy is tailored toward the circumstances of your case. Based on our findings on the case analysis, we work towards mitigating the case or acquiring an acquittal.
What Should I Do if I Have Been Arrested for Drug Possession in South Carolina?
Understanding your drug possession charge is the first step toward mounting a concrete defense. The charges vary significantly based on the type and the amount of drug in your possession.
The next step is to ensure you’re not disadvantaged by working with an experienced drug possession lawyer in Aiken. Lawyers at JJWLS understand state laws regarding drug possession.
They will not only offer basic legal advice but also help you navigate the complex legal system.
Why Choose Johnson, Johnson, Whittle, Lancer and Staggs for Your Drug Possession Defense?
When you choose us at JJWLS, you will surely benefit from our legal expertise in drug possession charges.
We offer:
Specialized Drug Possession Defense
You’re assured that you’ll get drug possession lawyer in Aiken. Our lawyers offer specialized services tailored to the specific circumstances of your case.
Our lawyer will work with you hand in hand to explain the basics of your case, defend your rights, and possibly get the charges dismissed.
Experienced Drug Possession Defense Attorneys
You will work with a drug possession lawyer in Aiken, who has years of experience handling cases like yours. We work with experienced lawyers with a track record of successfully defending clients against drug possession charges.
Client-Centered Approach
We understand that the circumstances surrounding drug possession cases are different. We offer personalized attention throughout the process to ensure the best possible outcome.
Our drug possession lawyer in Aiken maintain clear communication and collaborate with you throughout the legal process.
Contact an Experienced and Knowledgeable Drug Possession Lawyer in Aiken Today
Drug possession charges in South Carolina are complex and might end up in harsh punishment. However, not everyone who’s arrested is guilty of the offense. Having a lawyer who understands the circumstances of your case and is ready to protect your rights is crucial.
At JJWLS, you will work with an experienced drug possession lawyer in Aiken. You can come to us, and we will get to work as soon as possible to mount a defense for your charges.
Contact Johnson, Johnson, Whittle, Lancer and Staggs in Aiken at (803) 649-5338, and let’s start working on your case.
