Helping people move on with their lives with straight forward and sincere advice.

More than 40 combined years of experience in tenaciously defending Black Hills clients against criminal charges of DUI, drug crimes, assault and more.

Nobody knows the courthouses and legal environments better than us.

A Strong Defense Against South Dakota Drug Crime Charges

A conviction for possession of illegal drugs in South Dakota, other than less than two ounces of marijuana, may bring felony charges, along with jail sentences and other penalties. Controlled substances include prescription drugs illegally obtained and illegal street drugs such as hashish, methamphetamine or other forms of amphetamines, cocaine, MDMA, psilocybin mushrooms, LSD, bath salts and synthetic/designer drugs.

If you are questioned, investigated or arrested on the basis of criminal allegations involving such substances, do not discuss the matter with law enforcement before you have an attorney present to represent you. You might think that you are simply explaining your situation, but police are trained to gain an admission of guilt through questioning. Let us protect you through communications on your behalf with law enforcement agents and prosecutors.

Avoid The Consequences Of A Drug Conviction

Charges and convictions for possession and distribution of controlled substance or drug paraphernalia can lead to devastating consequences such as:

Jail time
Fines
Community service
Probation
Loss of driving privileges
A criminal record
Loss of eligibility for certain occupations, and even for student loans and grants

Examples of harsh drug crime penalties spelled out in South Dakota’s criminal statutes are as follows: a mandatory sentence in the state penitentiary of at least one year for the first conviction for the manufacture, distribution, counterfeiting or possession of methamphetamine, and at least ten years for a second conviction. These sentences may not be suspended.

Civil forfeiture proceedings are also often pursued by the state during drug busts, resulting in the seizure of vehicles, cash and firearms allegedly associated with the illegal activities. If you or a loved one has been charged with a drug offense or have had your personal property forfeited in connection with a search for drugs in your home or vehicle, it is important to seek the counsel of an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible.

If we advise and represent you, we will carefully examine your charge and begin developing an effective defense immediately.

Did The Police Use Illegal Search And Seizure?

Often, law enforcement officials become overzealous and commit illegal searches or seizures. It is our goal to ensure that the courts respect your constitutional and statutory rights. Look to Kinney Law, pc, for strong defense and zealous advocacy.

Attorney Matt Kinney has two decades of experience as a drug crime defense lawyer serving the Black Hills area and Rapid City. He provides legal guidance and representation to clients fighting through a wide range of criminal charges. As a skilled criminal defense lawyer, Mr. Kinney will work to ensure that your rights were not violated.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Crimes

Many clients ask detailed questions regarding their drug crime cases. We have prepared a collection of answers to some of the most important we hear:

What should I do if I am arrested for a drug crime in South Dakota?

A conviction for a drug crime can lead to serious repercussions, including incarceration and fines. However, you can protect your rights if you are arrested on suspicion of a drug crime.

Exercise your right to remain silent. Anything you say to the police could be used against you in court, which could greatly impair your defense options. You can remain silent to avoid making any self-incriminating comments. It would be best if you said very little to the police until you have attorney representation.

By contacting the law firm of Kinney Law, pc, you can talk to one of our attorneys and discuss your case. Our criminal defense attorneys can represent you and educate you on your legal rights.

Can drug charges be reduced or dismissed?

Yes. After reviewing your case with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys, we can strategize a defense to try to reduce or dismiss your drug charges. Some common defense strategies include:

Proving that the police conducted an unlawful search and seizure
Claiming the drugs were not yours
Disputing evidence of drug possession, manufacturing or selling

With the right defense strategy, it may be possible for our attorneys to dismiss charges or reduce repercussions, such as jail time, fines or community service.

How do drug courts work in South Dakota?

South Dakota drug courts focus on providing treatment and rehabilitation to offenders as an alternative to traditional sentencing. Eligible candidates can participate in a drug court program to battle addiction and limit behavior that may motivate a person to commit drug crimes. Our attorneys can help you explore the opportunities and benefits of drug court.

How can an attorney help in a drug crime case?

Our criminal defense attorneys can help you with your drug crime case by advocating for your legal rights. We can challenge evidence, represent you in court, strategize a strong defense and negotiate plea deals. For over 30 years, we have fought for justice, and we will do the same for you.

Contact Our South Dakota Firm After A Drug Bust Or Arrest

Whether your drug charge involves drug manufacture, drug distribution, driving under the influence, drug possession, trafficking or civil forfeiture, get personalized counsel as soon as possible.

If you face drug crime charges in South Dakota, contact Kinney Law, pc, to request a consultation remotely or at our Spearfish or Rapid City, South Dakota, offices. Reach us by phone at 605-340-0533 or through our online contact form on this site.