If convicted of a felony drug crime, you could face serious consequences. However, there is a chance that South Carolina authorities will agree to reduce the charge to a misdemeanor. If convicted of a less serious offense, you may avoid jail or prison time, which may allow you to keep your job or custody of your kids.
Why would a prosecutor agree to reduce a charge?
There are many different reasons why a prosecutor might agree to reduce the severity of your drug charge. Depending on the facts of the case, it may be the easiest way to convince you to plead guilty without going to trial. It’s also common for prosecutors to show leniency to those who lack a criminal record. Instead of taking a punitive approach, you may be given the option to enter a drug diversion program. Ideally, such a program will help you avoid committing similar offenses in the future.
Why should you consider accepting a plea deal?
Accepting a plea agreement is the same thing as admitting guilt in your case. However, doing so also means that you’ll likely receive a lighter sentence, and it may also mean that you won’t have to spend weeks or months in jail while your case moves through the legal system. If you don’t have a high-risk tolerance, taking a deal may be in your best interest as it provides a level of certainty about your future.
While taking a plea deal may be beneficial in your case, it’s important to review its terms carefully before accepting any offer made by authorities. This may be especially true if you have been convicted of a crime in the past as another conviction may result in mandatory minimum penalties.