South Dakota is still a state that outlaws all forms of marijuana possession. Out-of-state medical prescriptions are NOT given credit in South Dakota and provide no defense to marijuana possession. Marijuana laws are in a state of change in various states of the U.S. Some states have legalized medical marijuana or outright possession of marijuana. Unfortunately, many people travel on Interstate I-90 and are pulled over and arrested for marijuana possession. Possession of 2 ounces or less of marijuana is a misdemeanor. Any amount of marijuana over 2 ounces is subject to felony-based penalties on a scale depending on the amount. In addition, any and all forms of hashish are considered controlled substances in South Dakota and subject to felony penalties. Matt is a member of the lawyers listed on NORML known for defense of marijuana cases.

South Dakota Is Tough On Drug Crimes

Any type of illegal drug other than less than 2 ounces of marijuana, including prescription drugs illegally obtained, bring felony charges. Illegal street drugs, including, hashish, methamphetamine or other forms of amphetamines, cocaine, MDMA, psilocybin mushrooms, LSD, bath salts and synthetic/designer drugs can entail jail sentences for possession charges. Civil forfeiture proceedings are also often pursued by the state of South Dakota against vehicles, cash and firearms that are used during a drug bust.

While many marijuana reform laws are currently taking place, South Dakota is still home to very vigorous law enforcement agencies and an aggressive canine unit. If you have been arrested or charged with marijuana distribution, it is imperative that you act quickly to protect yourself. Do not discuss the matter with law enforcement without an attorney present. You might think that you are simply explaining your situation, but police are trained to gain an admission of guilt through questioning. Let us work with the police on your behalf.

Preventing The Consequences Of Drug Convictions

Marijuana and/or controlled substance possession crimes, including distribution, can lead to devastating consequences such as jail time, fines, community service, probation and loss of driving privileges. In addition, collateral consequences such as student loan and grant qualification may be affected for marijuana possession, controlled substance or drug paraphernalia convictions. If you or a loved one has been charged with a drug crime, it is wise to seek the counsel of an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible. We will carefully examine your charge and begin developing an effective defense immediately.

Matt has two decades of experience as a Black Hills-area and Rapid City drug crime attorney providing legal guidance and representation to clients fighting through a wide range of criminal charges. As a skilled criminal defense lawyer, Matt Kinney will carefully examine your charge and evidence to ensure that your rights were not violated at any time. Often, law enforcement officials will become overzealous and commit an illegal search or seizure. It is our goal to ensure that they respect your constitutional and statutory rights. Look to Kinney Law, pc, for strong defense and zealous advocacy.

Whether your drug charge involves drug manufacture, drug cultivation, drug distribution, driving under the influence, drug possession, trafficking or civil forfeiture, schedule a free consultation with an attorney at our firm to discuss your matter in detail.

Contact The Firm Now To Schedule A Free Criminal Defense Consultation

If you have questions regarding drug possession or distribution, contact Kinney Law, pc, to schedule a free consultation at either our Spearfish or Rapid City, South Dakota, office. We can be reached by phone at 605-642-2147, email at matt@kinney-law.com or by completing the online contact form on this site.