If law enforcement is asking you questions, you have been arrested, or you believe you are under investigation, you should speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Early advice can protect your rights, prevent damaging statements, and sometimes even affect what charges — if any — are ultimately filed.
You have the right to remain silent and to have a lawyer present during questioning. Even honest people trying to “clear things up” can say something that is misunderstood, taken out of context, or later used against them. It is almost always safer to politely decline to answer questions until you have spoken with an attorney who can advise you based on the specific situation.
Our office represents people facing a wide range of charges, including DUI, drug offenses, assault, domestic violence, theft and property crimes, traffic and license‑related offenses, and other misdemeanors and felonies in South Carolina courts. We also handle many cases for people with no prior criminal record who find themselves in the system for the first time and need guidance as well as defense.
The first appearance is often about setting bond and basic conditions of release, not deciding guilt or innocence. At this stage, the court may consider factors such as your background, the nature of the charge, and any safety concerns. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney involved early can help present you in the best light, argue for a reasonable bond, and address conditions like no‑contact orders or travel restrictions.
Many criminal cases are resolved without a trial, through dismissal, diversion programs, plea negotiations, or other resolutions. Whether a trial makes sense depends on the evidence, the risks, and your goals. Our job is to investigate the case, identify defenses, and clearly explain the options so you can make an informed decision about whether to fight the charges at trial or pursue another outcome.
A plea bargain is an agreement where you plead guilty or no contest to a charge — sometimes reduced — in exchange for a recommended sentence or dismissal of other counts. Not every offer is a good one. Before you consider any plea, we review the evidence, explain the consequences (including license issues, immigration concerns, and future record impact), and advise you on whether the offer is reasonable or should be rejected.
In some situations, South Carolina law allows for expungement or sealing of certain charges and convictions, especially for first‑time, lower‑level offenses and successful completion of diversion programs. Not every charge is eligible. Part of our review includes looking not just at how to resolve your case now but at how the outcome will affect your record and future opportunities.
Bring any paperwork you have received, including tickets, warrants, bond papers, court notices, or discovery, if it has already been provided. If you have information about witnesses, photos, videos, or other evidence, it’s helpful to gather that as well. We will walk you through what matters most and what we will obtain directly from the prosecutor or court.
We know court dates and legal language can be confusing and stressful. Our Charleston criminal defense lawyers keep you updated on upcoming appearances, negotiations, and any new developments in your case, and we explain what each step means in practical terms. You’ll know how to reach us with questions, and we encourage you to contact us if something new happens or if you receive additional paperwork.
Fees for criminal defense are typically structured as flat or hourly fees, depending on the type and complexity of the case. Before we begin providing legal services, we will clearly explain how fees work for your situation, what is included, and what payment options may be available. You’ll know the financial expectations up front, with no surprise charges.
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