South Carolina Drug Possession Law
South Carolina Drug Possession Defense
What you're facing under 44-53-370(d), how the penalties scale, and the questions your attorney needs to answer, specific to South Carolina (SC) law.
Offense Class
Misdemeanor (first/second); Misdemeanor with enhanced penalty (third+)
Maximum Penalty
6 months or $1,000 fine (first); 1 year or $2,000 fine (second); 2 years or $5,000 fine (third+)
Maximum Fine
$1,000 (first); $2,000 (second); $5,000 (third+)
Penalty Range in South Carolina
Charge Enhancements
These factors can elevate the charge or penalty in South Carolina:
- Second offense (up to 1 year)
- Third or subsequent offense (up to 2 years, $5,000 fine)
South Carolina-Specific Detail
Simple possession is charged under § 44-53-370(d). SC Controlled Substances Act mirrors federal scheduling. Conditional discharge (PTI) available for first offense — charges dismissed upon completion. Drug court diversion may be available.
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Important: This page provides legal INFORMATION about South Carolina drug possession law as of the date of publication. Laws change frequently. This is not legal advice. The analysis draws on methods developed by defense attorneys, applied to public data. Your attorney remains the final authority on defense direction.