In South Carolina, drug charges related to LSD can lead to strict penalties. The severity of this type of drug charge depends on the quantity and intention to sell.
Convictions can lead to jail time, severe fines, or both. Convictions can also result in long-term difficulties in finding employment, obtaining licenses, and facing discrimination. Possession of LSD charges in South Carolina are serious, so it's important to get legal representation.
If you have received any type of charge for LSD get in touch with an experienced Columbia drug defense attorney from Touma Law Group to protect your rights. Call our firm at 864-618-2323 to schedule a free consultation.
What is LSD?
LSD, or lysergic acid diethylamide, is a powerful hallucinogenic drug that affects the brain and causes intense sensory experiences. The drug produces changes in visual perception, mood and emotions, and feelings of detachment from reality.
LSD was first synthesized in 1938 but it wasn’t until the 1950s that its hallucinogenic effects were discovered. It’s known for its ability to produce intense and often unpredictable psychological effects, which can last up to 12 hours.
Common Types of Charges for LSD
Under South Carolina drug classifications possession of LSD is illegal. LSD is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance with no medical use and a high potential for abuse. Possessing any amount of this illegal substance in South Carolina can result in severe penalties, such as jail time and hefty fines.
The penalties for LSD possession vary based on the amount and any prior convictions. First-time offenders with less than 50 milligrams of LSD can face up to 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine. Drug possession of more than 50 milligrams of this dangerous substance carries even harsher penalties, including up to 25 years in prison and a $50,000 fine.
Simple Possession
Simple possession of LSD in South Carolina is considered a misdemeanor offense, punishable by up to three years in jail and/or a fine of up to $5,000. Under South Carolina law, the amount of the illegal drug possessed determines the severity of the charge.
For amounts under 10 milligrams, it’s a simple possession charge; for amounts over 10 milligrams, it will be considered a more serious charge of “possession with intent to distribute.”
Constructive Possession
Having constructive possession of LSD is a criminal offense in South Carolina. Constructive possession means having control or dominion over the drug, even if not physically possessing it. So, if someone knows the drug is there and can control it, they can be charged, even without having it on them.
In South Carolina, constructive possession is a felony and carries the same penalties as simple possession. This means facing up to three years of prison time and/or a fine of up to $5,000 for having constructive possession of LSD.
Possession with Intent to Distribute
LSD is a powerful hallucinogen. It is illegal in South Carolina. Possession with intent to distribute LSD is a felony. The penalties can be severe, including long prison sentences and large fines. Having more than two doses of LSD can lead to a charge of possession with intent to distribute.
This charge is more serious and carries harsher penalties than simple possession. If convicted, the punishment can be up to 25 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $50,000.
Trafficking
Drug trafficking is a serious criminal offense in South Carolina. A drug trafficking charge carries strong penalties and LSD is classified as a Schedule I drug. This means it has no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.
Those charged with trafficking LSD face severe consequences, including lengthy prison terms and hefty fines. The punishment for trafficking LSD varies depending on the amount of the drug found. It can range from 5 years to decades in prison.
Additionally, those convicted may face potential punishments such as fines of up to $50,000. Our drug trafficking attorneys are here to help you with these charges.
Potential Penalties for LSD Charges in South Carolina
If you have been charged with possession of LSD in South Carolina, the penalties you face may vary according to the amount and circumstances surrounding your alleged crime. Generally speaking, LSD is considered a Schedule I controlled substance in South Carolina and carries severe punishments including up to 10 years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
- Simple Possession: If you are found guilty of simple possession of LSD, you can face up to 3 years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
- Constructive Possession: Constructive possession of LSD is a felony offense in South Carolina and carries the same penalties as simple possession. This means that if you are found guilty of constructive possession, you may face up to 3 years in jail and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute: Possession with intent to distribute LSD is a felony offense in South Carolina and carries potentially severe penalties, including up to 25 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $50,000.
- Drug Trafficking: Drug trafficking with LSD is a serious criminal offense in South Carolina and can result in lengthy jail sentences and hefty fines. If convicted, you may face anywhere from 5 years to life in prison and/or a fine of up to $50,000.
First Offenses for Simple Possession
Being charged with simple possession in Columbia is considered a misdemeanor offense. If found guilty, the person may receive a prison sentence of up to three years and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
Additionally, they may be required to partake in substance abuse counseling or drug treatment programs to receive probation or avoid imprisonment. If the individual has previous drug convictions, the penalties may be more severe, including a prison sentence of up to five years and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
Subsequent Offenses for Simple Possession
Possessing LSD in South Carolina is a serious crime. The charges depend on the amount and other factors. Subsequent offenses for possession of LSD have more severe consequences.
A second offense is a felony with a potential prison sentence of up to five years and/or a fine of up to $5,000. Repeat offenses can result in even harsher penalties, including up to 10 years in jail and fines of up to $10,000.
Jail Time or Fines Based on the Amount of Drugs
In South Carolina, drug charges involving LSD have harsh penalties based on the quantity. Possession of less than 100 dosage units or one gram of LSD is a felony with up to 5 years in jail and/or a $5,000 fine.
Possession of more than 100 dosage units or one gram of LSD carries additional charges of up to 25 years in jail and/or fines of up to $50,000.
Contact Touma Law Group Today for Help With an LSD Charge!
If you are charged with LSD drug crimes in South Carolina, you need an attorney. The Touma Law Group knows South Carolina's drug laws and will fight for your rights.
Our Columbia criminal defense lawyers understand the seriousness of these charges and will utilize strategic defenses to get the best outcome for you. Contact us now at 864-618-2323 to schedule a consultation for your case.