South Carolina has strict laws regarding the possession, distribution and trafficking of cocaine. Cocaine is a Schedule II controlled substance according to South Carolina law. That means cocaine is rated highly for potential dependence and abuse. Even possessing a small amount of cocaine can lead to criminal charges.

Cocaine possession

Possessing cocaine is one of the drug offenses in South Carolina. It’s a misdemeanor to have less than one gram of cocaine, and it’s punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.

Having more than one gram of cocaine is a felony. Having between one and 10 grams of cocaine can result in up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Possession of more than 10 grams of cocaine could mean a sentence of up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.

Distribution

Distribution of cocaine is a felony that involves selling, delivering, or transferring cocaine to someone else. Although it’s generally done on a small scale, punishment for distribution depends on how much cocaine is involved.

Up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000 is possible for distributing less than 10 grams of cocaine. Punishment increases up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000 for distributing 10 to 28 grams of cocaine. And for more than 28 grams of cocaine, it’s possible to get up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.

Trafficking

Trafficking cocaine is a felony and large-scale operation that involves transporting, distributing or selling large amounts of cocaine.

Trafficking between 10 and 28 grams of cocaine is punishable by up to 25 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. And trafficking between 28 and 100 grams of cocaine can lead to up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.

The most severe punishment is for trafficking more than 100 grams of cocaine. That has a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years and a fine of up to $200,000.

Possessing, trafficking or distributing cocaine can lead to severe legal consequences. These consequences include time in prison, hefty fines and a criminal history that will have a long-lasting effect.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a lawyer?

If you have been charged with a crime, arrested, or under investigation then you need a lawyer.

When you’re charged with a crime, there may be potential penalties that you’re not aware of. But there are ways to defend against the charges, too. Your lawyer can strategize for your case. They can represent you in court and to the prosecutor, putting their expertise to work for you.

Even if the charges don’t seem significant now, they may affect you in the future. Your lawyer defends your freedom and your best interests. If you’re facing a criminal charge or police investigation, contact a criminal defense lawyer.

What steps should I take immediately to protect my rights?

If you’re arrested or charged with a crime, be polite – but don’t consent to any search. Politely say that you refuse to answer any questions. Don’t resist the law enforcement officer.

Exercise your right to remain silent. This includes law enforcement officers before and after the arrest. It also means not talking to others at the police station, your friends, extended family, and social media. The things you say can be used against you.

Ask to contact your lawyer. Then call us right away. We can represent you at your next court hearing. Save everything that you think may be relevant to the case.

How long will my case take?

Every case has a different timeline depending on the severity and facts of the case. Some criminal charges can be resolved in just a few weeks. Others can take several months.

As your lawyer, William G. Yarborough will help you balance the various factors. It can take time to build defenses and/or negotiate a favorable plea agreement. It may be worth it to wait to go to trial. Other times, it’s best to take a plea deal.

What’s right for you depends on multiple factors. Attorney Yarborough can advise you on what he thinks is your best course of action.

Will my case go to trial?

There may be non-trial options available to you. You may secure a plea bargain or a pre-trial case diversion. Sometimes, preliminary motions can result in charges being dismissed.

However, you always have the right to a trial. In a trial, the prosecutor must prove the charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt.

Most cases don’t end up going to trial. But what matters is your case. Attorney Yarborough will work with you on a personalized case plan that reflects your interests and goals.

If your case does go to trial, Attorney William G. Yarborough is prepared to aggressively defend you in court.

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