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If your marijuana possession case goes to court in South Carolina, you can receive an array of penalties if you’re convicted.

• A marijuana possession conviction in SC can result in between 30 days to six months in jail. The length will vary depending on the total weight of the drugs in your possession. 
• Your fine could cost up to $1,000. 
• If you’ve committed subsequent drug offenses, it can result in one year in jail and a fine of $2,000. 
• If you possessed under one ounce of marijuana, your maximum penalty would be 30 days in jail and/or a fine between $100 to $200. 
• If you’ve committed subsequent drug offenses of carrying under one ounce of marijuana, this can result in one year in jail and/or a fine between $200 and $1000. 
• If you’re carrying between one once and less than ten pounds of marijuana, you can be charged with Possession With Intent to Distribute (PWID). PWID in South Carolina is a felony and includes fines of up to $5,000 and/or up to five years in prison. 
• If you possess more than 10 pounds of marijuana, you can be charged with trafficking. This is a felony offense punishable by 1-10 years in prison and a fine of $10,000. The potential punishment increases depending on weight and prior offenses.

In certain situations, the judge, prosecutor and/or arresting officer may dismiss the charge or offer options instead of proceeding to trial. Some of the choices that can be offered include:

• The defendant will be placed on probation
• Pre-trial intervention
• Complete a rehab or outpatient program
• Drug court