Any charge involving a drug offense, even just possession of a controlled substance, could land you in jail. If you are facing illicit substance charges of any kind, you could help yourself by contacting a Goose Creek drug lawyer right away.

When fighting a drug charge, working with someone who understands the drug schedules and laws could be crucial in building a solid defense case. An experienced criminal defense attorney could assist you in fighting for a positive resolution to your charges.

Drug Offenses in Goose Creek

Drug offenses in Goose Creek apply when a person commits an unlawful or prohibited act involving a controlled substance, which can include illegal drugs, narcotics, prescription medications, and counterfeit drugs. A prohibited act would refer to manufacturing, purchasing, delivering, or possessing a controlled substance. It is also against the law to conspire to commit a drug offense, such as two or more individuals making plans to sell drugs.

What are the Penalties for Substance Abuse?

The penalties imposed for drug crimes depend on several factors, such as the substance’s schedule classification and whether the incident was a first or subsequent offense. An attorney in Goose Creek could explain the punishments that could be imposed for a specific drug offense.

As an example, the possession or sale of a Schedule I drug, such as heroin, is a felony punishable by incarceration for up to 15 years and a fine as high as $25,000 for the first offense. Upon conviction for a third or subsequent time, the sanctions increase to a prison sentence of 10 to 30 years and a $50,000 fine.

Drug Trafficking Offenses and Penalties in Goose Creek

The possession of large quantities of an illicit drug or controlled substance could result in a drug trafficking felony charge. Subsequent convictions for drug trafficking will result in longer prison sentences and higher fines.

What is the Minimum Penalty for the Trafficking of Marijuana?

Trafficking of marijuana is the possession of ten pounds or more of marijuana, or an attempt to sell or deliver it. The minimum penalty for trafficking between ten and one hundred pounds of marijuana is one year in prison and a $10,000 fine for the first offense. Trafficking between 2,000 and 10,000 pounds of marijuana is punishable by a mandatory 25-year prison sentence and a $50,000 fine.

Cocaine Trafficking

The minimum penalty for trafficking between 10 and 28 grams of cocaine include a three-year prison sentence and a $25,000 fine. Trafficking more than 400 grams of cocaine is associated with a mandatory minimum prison term of 25 years and a fine of $200,000. Contact a Goose Creek lawyer who represents defendants charged with drug crimes for an explanation of the penalties for the offense.

Penalties for Theft of Controlled Substances in Goose Creek

It is a felony offense to steal medications and other controlled substances, whether from a retail establishment, doctor’s office, or an individual with a valid prescription. The first offense for theft of a controlled substance is penalized by a prison sentence of five years or less and a fine up to $5,000. Subsequent convictions for the same theft offense are punishable by up to ten years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Contact a Goose Creek Drug Attorney

Dealing with a criminal charge for a drug offense can be stressful, but legal guidance is available to you. A lawyer could present possible strategies for defending you.

You could have a better chance of achieving a favorable outcome when you choose to retain a Goose Creek drug attorney rather than defend yourself or rely on a busy court-appointed lawyer. Contact an attorney for assistance today.