William G. Yarborough

How should people in South Carolina respond to a drug arrest?

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Even though drug offenses are often non-violent legal infractions, they still tend to carry quite a bit of social stigma. Research has helped clarify that a combination of genetic predisposition, family influence and personal trauma often play a large role in someone’s chemical dependence.

Many people now recognize that drug abuse often results from personal trauma or a recent medical issue that has caused ongoing pain. People are also more aware of how addiction can limit someone’s educational and employment opportunities. Despite growing awareness of how addiction starts and how it holds people back in life South Carolina still treats those arrested for the possession of prohibited or controlled substances like hardened criminals.

Often, those accused of a drug offense feel embarrassed and convince themselves that staying out of court as much as possible is the best way to reduce the damage that these charges will cause. However, for many accused individuals, there are two better options than just pleading guilty to avoid a criminal trial.

They defend themselves to protect their future

Someone may be able to offer a reasonable explanation for why police officers found drugs in their vehicle, or perhaps they have an alibi that can prove they were not the person involved in an illegal transfer of narcotics that took place under state surveillance.

Defense strategies in drug cases range from bringing in expert witnesses that challenge the validity of some evidence to asserting that a search was illegal and therefore the evidence gathered cannot play a role in a criminal trial. Those who successfully defend against drug charges don’t have to worry about a criminal record or any penalties imposed by the courts.

They have their case heard in drug court

The drug court system allows those who can connect their criminal charges to a substance abuse disorder to avoid criminal penalties for certain infractions. Drug court helps people enter treatment for their addiction, and if an individual completes the process successfully, they can avoid the criminal penalties typically assigned after a conviction for a drug offense.

Looking at every option when responding to pending drug charges can benefit those worried about their reputation and future after an arrest in South Carolina.

 

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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