Drug Charges

The Effective Drug Crime Defense You Need Right Now!

If you have been charged with a felony or misdemeanor drug possession charge, you will face strict penalties. I am criminal defense attorney Baxter Harwell of the criminal defense Harwell Law Firm, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. I am a life-long resident of the Grand Strand region of northeastern South Carolina, and I am a strong supporter of drug laws to help keep our streets and neighborhoods safe. But I also believe that people don't deserve the harshest criminal penalties for making the smallest mistake.

When pleading guilty is NOT an option

If you have been charged with a drug crime, it doesn't mean that you have to face a conviction. I am an experienced attorney who is willing to fight hard for the best possible outcome for you. I have nearly fifteen years of criminal law experience, including nearly four years working on the side of the prosecutor. Because of my strong legal history in the area, I know most of the police and prosecutors and what their strategies will be for collecting evidence and prosecuting your case. I use my knowledge of the local judicial system to develop the strongest case possible to argue for a dismissal or reduction of charges and penalties.

Marijuana possession
Ecstasy, crack cocaine possession or distribution
Intent to distribute
Methamphetamine manufacturing
Illegal prescription medication

Contact my office to discuss the circumstances of your drug crime. An arrest does NOT have to mean a conviction. Your liberty is my priority.

South Carolina penalties for drug crime are worth taking seriously!

Marijuana Possession:

< 1 ounce or 10 grams = up to 30 days in jail, $200 fine
> 1 ounce or 10 grams = up to 6 months in jail, $1,000 fine
2nd or subsequent offense = penalties double

10 lbs.-100 lbs. in possession = trafficking intent to distribute:

1st offense = up to 10 years in jail, $10,000 fine
2nd offense = up to 20 years in jail, $15,000 fine
3rd offense = up to 25 years in jail, $25,000 fine

Cocaine Possession

1st offense = up to 2 years in jail, $5,000 fine
2nd offense = up to 5 years in jail, $5,000 fine
3rd offense = up to 5 years in jail, $10,000 fine

10-28 grams of possession = trafficking and intent to distribute

1st offense = 3 to 10 years in jail, $25,000 fine
2nd offense = 5 to 30 years in jail, up to $50,000 fine
3rd offense = 25-30 years, up to $50,000 fine

Drug charges for Heroin, Ecstasy, Meth, and other dangerous drugs can be significantly more severe.

Contact me right away if you or a family member has been charged with a drug crime.