Assertive Lawyer Representing Greenville Clients Facing Possession with Intent to Distribute Charges
If you are arrested for possessing illegal substances and law enforcement determines you intended to also distribute the drugs, you will be charged with the more serious crime of possession with intent to distribute (PWID). PWID convictions result in either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the drug and the amount in question. Attorney Richard Warder has defended thousands of clients facing PWID in his 40+ years as a criminal defense lawyer.
Misdemeanor or Felony?
South Carolina statutes classify different drugs into five categories or schedules: I, II, III, IV, and V. These classifications are determined by the drug’s potential for addiction as well as its uses. Schedule I and II drugs have the high potential for abuse or addiction and are never or rarely used for medical purposes. Schedule III, IV and V drugs are less addictive, easier to acquire, and used more widely for medical purposes.
Without getting too deep in the weeds, it’s safe to say Schedule I, II and III PWID charges will likely result in a felony conviction, up to 20 years in jail, and/or $20,000 in fines. Schedule IV and V PWID convictions are typically misdemeanors that result in up to three years in jail and/or up to $3,000 in fines.
Don’t Attempt to Tackle This Situation Alone
South Carolina drug statutes are complex and rely on many factors. Attorney Richard Warder has been fighting these cases for over 40 years and is well-acquainted with the process. He will search for any police misconduct that may have occurred during your arrest and leverage that to your advantage. It is essential you work with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as charges are filed, especially if you have previous drug convictions on your record.