Getting convicted of a drug offense doesn’t just mean jail time or a fine. It can take a wrecking ball to your future, particularly to your job opportunities, housing, license, and your record. At Eppes & Plumblee in Greenville, SC, our criminal defense lawyers will work with you to understand how your drug charge can impact you for years.
The Criminal Sentence is Only the First Concern
SC’s drug laws leave little room for error. Even a first offense for simple possession, such as under an ounce of marijuana, can land you in jail for up to 30 days. Cocaine, MDMA, or prescription drugs without a valid prescription? That’s a felony, even if it’s your first time. For instance, just having less than one gram of cocaine is punishable by up to three years in prison for a first offense.
That’s not counting probation, drug testing, or other conditions the court will impose. Additionally, once you’ve got a conviction on your record, the consequences don’t stop when you walk out of court.
The Additional Penalties No One Warns You About
What surprises most people after a conviction isn’t the criminal penalties but the collateral consequences, which can stick with you long after you’ve finished probation or served your time. The collateral consequences for a drug conviction can:
- Limit job opportunities. Many employers run background checks. Unfortunately, drug offenses raise red flags, even for jobs that have nothing to do with safety or security.
- Affect housing. Public housing authorities can deny applications based on certain convictions, and private landlords typically follow suit.
- Block professional licenses. Nurses, teachers, real estate agents, and CDL drivers can lose their license or be denied one entirely.
- Trigger license suspensions. A drug conviction can lead to a six-month driver’s license suspension, even if the offense had nothing to do with driving.
- Jeopardize federal student aid. While some restrictions have loosened, students with drug convictions may still face delays or eligibility reviews for financial assistance.
These consequences aren’t about rehabilitation. They are real barriers (many of them permanent) because the damage doesn’t end when you leave the courtroom.
You Can Still Change the Outcome
If you’re facing drug-related charges, the most crucial step is to discuss your case with a Greenville, SC, drug charge defense attorney right away. Depending on your specific case, you may qualify for Pretrial Intervention (PTI) or a Conditional Discharge, which can give you a second chance without leaving a stain on your record.
PTI is a diversion program designed for first-time offenders. If you’re accepted and complete the requirements, such as community service or drug counseling, your charge can be dismissed and later expunged. Conditional discharge works similarly for simple possession cases. You enter a probation-like program, and if you follow through, your charge gets wiped clean.
However, it’s a one-time shot. If you plead guilty without knowing your options, you could lose the chance ever to expunge that charge. Regardless of your situation, your Greenville, SC, drug charge defense lawyer can ensure you understand precisely what’s at stake and what steps you must take to protect your record, freedom, rights, and reputation.
Seek Legal Guidance From Our Greenville, SC, Defense Attorneys
At Eppes & Plumblee, our Greenville, SC, drug charge defense lawyers will help you understand your options, fight to protect your record, and get your future back on track. Contact us online or at 864-581-3450 to arrange your confidential consultation today.