Cannabis Business Legal Compliance in South Carolina

Do You Need Help With Compliance or Need a Cannabis Attorney?

Get Advice

Hemp and CBD Oversight in South Carolina

  • South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA): The SCDA oversees the state’s hemp program, including licensing for hemp growers, processors, and handlers. The department ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, including those established by the 2018 Farm Bill and South Carolina-specific hemp legislation.
  • South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC): DHEC regulates CBD products derived from hemp, ensuring compliance with labeling, distribution, and product safety standards. It also enforces laws regarding hemp extract use in consumable products.
Attorneys Who Work With Cannabis-Related Issues in South Carolina Area of Expertise
Chambers Law Firm Criminal Defense
David W. Martin Law Group Criminal Defense
Mason Law Firm Business Compliance
Matt Bodman, PA Criminal Defense
McKinney, Tucker & Lemel, LLC Criminal Defense
Michael L. Brown, Jr. Criminal Defense
Sahn Law Firm Criminal Defense

The Role of a Cannabis Business Attorney in SC

A business-focused cannabis attorney offers a comprehensive suite of services to help clients navigate the intricate legal environment. These include:

  • Licensing and Compliance: Ensuring adherence to evolving state and federal laws, including those outlined in proposed legislation like Bill 211.
  • Business Formation: Advising on structures such as LLCs or corporations and drafting operational agreements.
  • Contracts: Drafting and reviewing agreements for suppliers, leases, and employees.
  • Intellectual Property: Protecting trademarks and patents for cannabis products.
  • Real Estate: Guiding clients through zoning and permitting requirements.
  • Regulatory Updates: Keeping businesses informed about changes to cannabis laws.

Cannabis Legal Risks and Penalties in South Carolina

South Carolina enforces strict penalties for cannabis-related violations, highlighting the importance of compliance. For example:

  • Possession: A first offense involving less than one ounce of marijuana is a misdemeanor, with penalties including a fine of up to $200 and 30 days in jail.
  • Possession with Intent to Distribute: More than one ounce can result in felony charges, carrying up to five years in prison and fines up to $5,000.
  • Trafficking: Penalties range from 1–10 years in prison and $10,000 in fines for smaller quantities to mandatory 25-year sentences and $200,000 fines for over 100 pounds.
  • Manufacturing: Growing fewer than 100 plants carries a penalty of five years in prison and a $5,000 fine, escalating significantly for larger operations.

Request a Legal Consultation

Discuss your legal questions with a cannabis attorney
REQUEST