When a teenager faces a drug-related charge, parents often feel overwhelmed, scared, and uncertain about what lies ahead. South Carolina continues to report concerning rates of teen drug use, and with those numbers come higher risks of arrests, criminal charges, and long-term consequences.
Understanding how often teens in South Carolina are using drugs and what underage drug charges can lead to can help parents take the proper steps to protect their child’s future. If your family is dealing with a drug-related charge, this article will provide important context and explain why working with an experienced defense attorney matters.
If your teen is already facing charges, don’t wait—contact T. Kirk Truslow, P.A. through our online contact form or call (843) 212-1116 right now for immediate support.
Teen Drug Use in South Carolina: The Numbers
Parents may not realize just how widespread drug use among teens has become. According to Drug Abuse Statistics, roughly 1 in 8 teenagers nationwide reported using an illicit drug in the past year. In South Carolina specifically, nearly 6.5% of youth between ages 12 and 17 reported using illegal drugs in a one-year period (America’s Health Rankings).
Experimentation may seem harmless for many teens, but the risks are very real. Beyond health concerns, even a single mistake can result in criminal charges that carry lasting consequences. For parents, this means understanding that while drug use statistics reflect broad social trends, the legal system treats each case individually—and the stakes for your child’s future are high.
What Kinds of Charges Can Teens Face?
In South Carolina, the law does not treat drug offenses lightly, even when the accused is a minor. Teenagers can face serious charges for drug-related activity, including:
- Possession: Having a controlled substance, even in small amounts, can lead to criminal charges. For example, marijuana possession is still illegal in South Carolina, despite legalization trends elsewhere.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute: If the amount of drugs is more than what might reasonably be considered “personal use,” or if the teen is accused of sharing or selling drugs, the charge can escalate. Learn more about these serious offenses in our blog on drug trafficking.
- Distribution or Trafficking: Selling, sharing, or transporting drugs—even among peers—can quickly escalate into felony charges.
Each charge carries its own penalties, which can affect a teenager’s record, education, and future opportunities. Check out our page on drug crimes for a detailed overview of how these cases are handled in South Carolina, .
Immediate Consequences of Underage Drug Charges
When a teen is arrested for a drug offense, the short-term consequences can feel overwhelming. These may include:
- Court appearances: Your child may be required to attend juvenile court or, in some cases, adult court if the charges are severe.
- Loss of driving privileges: A drug conviction often leads to driver’s license suspension.
- School-related consequences: Disciplinary actions from schools, including suspension or expulsion, are common.
- Juvenile detention or probation: Depending on the severity of the offense, a teen could face time in a detention facility or lengthy probation.
While these are serious enough, the long-term impact can be even greater.
Long-Term Consequences Parents Should Understand
Parents often ask: “What does this mean for my child’s future?” Unfortunately, a drug conviction can follow a teen for years, affecting:
- College applications and scholarships: Many schools ask about criminal history, and convictions may limit financial aid eligibility.
- Employment: Background checks can reveal convictions, limiting job opportunities.
- Military service: A criminal record may disqualify a teen from enlisting in the armed forces.
- Housing opportunities: Criminal records can complicate future rental applications.
These ripple effects highlight why early intervention with skilled legal defense is crucial.
How Parents Can Help Their Teen
Parents play a critical role when their child faces a drug-related charge. Here are steps you can take:
- Stay calm and supportive: Teens often fear disappointing their parents more than the legal process.
- Understand the charges: Learn the nature of your child's charges and what penalties may apply.
- Get experienced legal help immediately: Drug charges are complex, and South Carolina laws can be unforgiving. Partnering with a defense attorney ensures your teen has the strongest chance at a positive outcome.
By understanding the statistics and the law, parents can better prepare to protect their child’s rights and future.
Protect Your Child's Future Today
If your child is facing drug charges, the situation may feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to handle it alone. At T. Kirk Truslow, P.A., our Myrtle Beach drug crimes attorney has represented clients charged with various misdemeanor and felony drug offenses. We know what’s at stake for your family and are ready to fight for your child’s future.
We offer free initial consultations with 24/7 availability because we know these cases can’t wait. Don’t let one mistake define your teen’s life. Contact T. Kirk Truslow, P.A. today through our online contact form or call (843) 212-1116 to get the support and representation your family deserves.