Facing a Drug Charge in Columbia, SC?
Then you need an experienced South Carolina criminal defense attorney to defend you.
Dealing with a drug charge is a nerve-wracking experience. And right now, your mind is full of questions like: Will I pay steep fines? Will I be put on probation? Or worse, will I serve time in jail?
It’s possible you were in the wrong place at the wrong time, were hanging with the wrong crowd, made a series of poor choices or are dealing with an addiction. Whatever the reason, a drug charge doesn’t mean you’re a bad person. It does mean you need legal help!
Specifically, you need help from an experienced drug charge attorney in Columbia, SC who understands how the prosecution works. Both Barney and Keith Giese are former prosecutors. They have prosecuted and defended some of the most complicated criminal cases in South Carolina, and they know how the legal system works.
So whether you’ve been charged with possession of prescription drugs, manufacturing of crystal meth, possession of marijuana or drug trafficking, they have the skills to get you the best possible outcome.
Answers to your questions
Naturally, you want to know more about your situation and the law firm that will represent you. Before you pick up the phone and schedule a free consultation, let us try to answer a few of those questions right here.
How can I be charged with drug possession if the police found drugs in a car that wasn’t mine?
Legally, there is no distinction between “drug possession” and “drug ownership.” That means, if drugs are recovered by police during a vehicle search, all occupants of the vehicle can be charged.
How can I win my case? The police found drugs on me.
Let’s get straight to the point. It’s bad if police find drugs on the person of someone charged with a drug offense. However, even these cases can be won. If the police violated the U.S. Constitution or state laws during their search, a skilled attorney can contest the illegal seizure of evidence, and the judge could be convinced to suppress evidence that’s obtained in an illegal search.
What about prescription drugs? How is that treated?
South Carolina has strict laws governing the possession and use of controlled substances. These laws depend on the drugs’ classifications. Essentially, it’s illegal to share, sell or buy prescription drugs like codeine, Adderall, Ritalin, Zoloft, Prozac or Zyrtec.
What are the charges for possession of marijuana?
Possession of marijuana is still illegal in South Carolina, even though it has been decriminalized in other states. Therefore, simple possession of marijuana is a misdemeanor charge. The consequences for a first offense are up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $200. For a second, the punishment is up to one year in jail and fines up to $1,000.
What's the penalty for drug trafficking?
In South Carolina, all drug trafficking charges are considered violent and serious offenses. As a result, the penalties are pretty serious. The amount of time to be served and the fines to be paid vary widely depending on the type of drug and the amount of the drug, as well as whether this charge is a first offense.
For example, a first offense marijuana trafficking charge for 10-100 lbs. of the drug could result in 1-10 years and $10K in fines. A first offense cocaine trafficking charge for 10-28 grams could lead to 3-10 years and $25K in fines.
What is the penalty for manufacturing methamphetamine?
Manufacturing methamphetamine is a charge with grave consequences. A first offense could bring about a sentence of up to 15 years in jail and fines up to $25K. A second offense could lead to 5-30 years in jail and fines reaching $50K. Finally, a third or higher offense could result in 10-30 years, fines up to $50K and no chance of parole.
What if it’s my 1st, 2nd or 3rd offense?
As you saw in previous answers, the consequences quickly get steeper with second and third offenses. If it’s your first offense, you’ve got a better chance of getting a favorable outcome. Either way, you need the support of an experienced legal team to give you the best representation possible on your day in court.
How many people have we represented?
We’ve represented hundreds of people from all walks of life, who have been charged with a crime. Our drug charge defense attorneys take an aggressive approach in protecting the rights and liberties of our clients.
Can you guarantee that you’ll get my charges dismissed?
Absolutely not! And neither can any other attorneys in South Carolina. But what we can tell you is that Barney and Keith Giese have over 30 years experience. They know the law inside and out and will examine your case from every possible angle, looking for information to use in your defense.
Time to speak with an attorney
Request your free consultation, using this form or call 803.708.6767. Remember, you’re under no obligation to move forward.