A minor in possession of drugs (MIP – Controlled Substances) charge in South Carolina can have serious, long-term consequences.
Even a first-time offense can lead to fines, probation, suspension of your driver’s license, and a permanent criminal record. However, just because a minor has been charged does not mean they are guilty. At Chambers Law, we fight to protect young clients from unnecessary convictions and harsh penalties.
Call 843-449-0420 today for a free consultation.
Understanding Minor in Possession (MIP) of Drug Charges
In South Carolina, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to possess any controlled substances—including:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- Methamphetamine
- Fentanyl
- Prescription drugs without a valid prescription (e.g., Xanax, Adderall, Oxycodone)
Minors can be charged with simple possession if caught with a small amount for personal use, or possession with intent to distribute (PWID) if law enforcement believes they intended to sell or share the drugs.
Penalties for Minor in Possession (MIP) of Drug Charges
- Simple Possession of a Controlled Substance (First Offense – Misdemeanor) Up to 30 days in jail, fines up to $200 (for marijuana) or $5,000 (for other drugs), driver’s license suspension of 6 months to 1 year, possible mandatory drug counseling or community service.
- Possession of a Controlled Substance (Second Offense or More) Up to 1 year in jail, increased fines, longer driver’s license suspension, permanent criminal record.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute (PWID) – Felony Up to 15 years in prison, fines up to $25,000, permanent felony record, which cannot be expunged.
Even a misdemeanor drug conviction can impact a minor’s college applications, scholarships, financial aid eligibility, and job opportunities. That’s why it’s crucial to fight the charges aggressively.
How We Defend MIP Drug Cases
At Chambers Law, we know that minors often face unfair treatment in drug cases. We build strong defenses, including:
- Illegal search and seizure: Did police have the right to search the minor?
- Drug ownership dispute: Was the drug actually theirs, or was it found near them?
- Entrapment: Did an undercover officer pressure them into committing a crime?
- Coerced confession: Did law enforcement illegally question them without a parent or attorney present?
- First-time offender programs: Can we secure a Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) or Conditional Discharge?
We fight to get charges dismissed or reduced to protect your child’s future.
How We Can Resolve a Minor in Possession Case
Depending on the facts of the case, we explore legal strategies such as:
- Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI): A diversion program that results in dismissal and expungement
- Conditional Discharge: Avoids conviction if probation and treatment are completed
- Plea Bargaining: Reducing the charge to avoid jail time
- Trial Defense: Fighting for an acquittal if necessary
We prioritize keeping your child’s record clean and minimizing consequences
