In Florence, drug trafficking charges can carry severe penalties that significantly impact your life, liberty, and future. At Swilley Law Firm, LLC, our experienced criminal defense attorneys have a deep understanding of South Carolina’s complicated drug laws and will work diligently to build a strong defense for each client we represent.
Drug trafficking allegations can arise from a variety of situations, such as a traffic stop, a search warrant executed at your home, or a long-term investigation by law enforcement. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your arrest, it is essential to remember that you have constitutional rights that must be upheld throughout the legal process. Our Florence drug trafficking lawyers are well-versed in identifying potential violations of your rights and using them to your advantage in court.
What Is Drug Trafficking?
Drug trafficking refers to the illegal distribution, transportation, or sale of controlled substances like marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or prescription drugs. In South Carolina, drug trafficking is a felony offense with penalties that vary based on the type and quantity of drugs involved.
For example, trafficking 10-100 pounds of marijuana is punishable by 1-10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine, while trafficking 400 grams or more of cocaine carries a prison sentence of 25-30 years and a $200,000 fine. A conviction for drug trafficking also results in driver’s license suspension. The severity of these consequences highlights the importance of having a knowledgeable drug trafficking lawyer advocating on your behalf.
It is important to note that you can face drug trafficking charges even if you were not caught in the act of selling or distributing drugs.
Merely possessing a large quantity of controlled substances can lead to trafficking charges, as the law presumes an intent to distribute based on the amount of drugs found. This is why it is crucial to have a skilled drug trafficking attorney who can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and assumptions.
Building a Strong Defense
At Swilley Law Firm, LLC, our Florence drug trafficking lawyers take the time to thoroughly investigate the details of your case. We scrutinize police reports, review evidence, and interview witnesses to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Our Florence drug trafficking attorney looks for unlawful search and seizure issues, entrapment, lack of probable cause, and other factors that could lead to reduced charges or case dismissal.
We also examine whether your Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable search and seizure were violated. If the police obtained evidence illegally, such as searching your vehicle without probable cause or a valid warrant, our lawyer can file a motion to suppress that evidence.
Successfully challenging the evidence against you could result in dropped charges.
In cases involving constructive possession, where drugs are found in a shared area like a car or apartment, we work to demonstrate that you did not have knowledge or control over the controlled substances. Our Florence drug trafficking attorneys strive to cast doubt on whether the drugs actually belonged to you.
Building a strong defense also involves examining the chain of custody for the alleged drugs. We ensure that proper procedures were followed in the handling, storage, and testing of the substances to prevent any tampering or contamination that could affect the validity of the evidence. Our Florence drug trafficking lawyers leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of the best possible outcome for your case.
Alternatives to Incarceration
While fighting for dropped or reduced charges is always our priority, in some cases, pursuing alternatives to incarceration may be in your best interests. Our Florence drug trafficking attorneys explore all available options, such as drug court programs, that focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Drug courts provide non-violent offenders the opportunity to complete substance abuse treatment, regular drug testing, and court supervision instead of jail time. Upon successful completion of drug court, your charges may be reduced or even dismissed entirely. Our Florence drug trafficking lawyer can help you determine if you qualify for a drug court program and guide you through the process.
In addition to drug court, our attorney may also explore the possibility of a plea bargain. While we always prepare each case as if it will go to trial, negotiating a plea deal can sometimes result in reduced charges or a more lenient sentence. However, we will only recommend a plea bargain if it is truly in your best interests and after carefully discussing all potential outcomes with you.
Protect Your Future with Swilley Law Firm, LLC
That is why it is crucial to have a skilled drug trafficking lawyer fighting for your future. At Swilley Law Firm, LLC, we are committed to providing aggressive legal representation and personalized attention to each client. From your initial consultation through the resolution of your case, our attorney is here to answer your questions, provide updates on your case, and offer the support you need during this challenging time.
If you have been charged with drug trafficking in Florence, South Carolina, do not face these serious charges alone. Contact Swilley Law Firm, LLC, today to schedule a consultation with an experienced drug trafficking attorney. Together, we will work to build a strong defense strategy aimed at protecting your rights, your freedom, and your future.
