Charleston Violent Crimes Defense Lawyer
Fighting Your Violent Crime Charge in Charleston
South Carolina takes violent criminal offenses very seriously, and convictions almost always come with jail sentences. This is not a fight you want to battle alone, and it is unlikely a public defender will have the time or resources to give your case the attention it deserves. Your best option in these matters is to hire a high quality violent crime defense lawyer.
Sanders Law Firm, LLC is home to renowned Charleston violent crime defense attorney T.O. Sanders. Mr. Sanders is a former prosecutor and now uses his experiences in the field to create solid criminal defense strategies that target the weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument. Our team can devote personalized attention to each and every client, ensuring you receive the quality representation you deserve.
For a consultation with the Sanders Law Firm, LLC team, call (843) 573-8828 today.
What is a Violent Crime?
What many people do not realize is that you do not have to physically harm another person in order to be charged with a violent crime. Threatening or attempting to use physical force on another are also considered violent offenses and carry similar penalties. This is where the law becomes more open to interpretation as the prosecution must prove that the defendant’s actions directly resulted in the harm of another and that the victim had reasonable cause to feel threatened by their actions. In certain cases, even willful destruction of property can be classified as a violent crime.
The following are examples of violent criminal offenses in South Carolina:
- Murder and attempted murder
- Assault and battery
- Armed robbery
- 2nd degree arson – intentionally setting property on fire
- Felony DUI – deaths resulting from DUI
- Sexual assault
- Domestic violence
You can be charged with a violent crime even if you had no intention of harming the victim. For instance, robbing a convenience store and leading the employees to believe you have a gun even when you don’t would still be considered a violent crime. You could also be given a weapons charge.
Are violent crimes felony offenses?
Violent crimes are classified as felonies. Felony offenses are more serious than misdemeanors and carry a harsher sentence if convicted. They carry hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences. In many cases, a person's personal and professional life can be uprooted as the stigma of the conviction follows them into the future. In many cases, a felony cannot be expunged from one's criminal record.
Our team understands what is at stake for you if you are accused of committing a violent crime.
What Our Firm Can Do For You
Law enforcement officials and prosecutors are expected to meet certain quotas. Therefore, they will often attempt to add as many charges as they can to a crime in order to land a conviction. Regardless of whether you believe you are innocent or not, it is in your best interests to hire an attorney and make sure your actions are portrayed fairly in court.
Our Charleston violent crime defense lawyer is dedicated to achieving the best outcome possible and can make sure your rights are protected.
Learn more about your rights after being charged with a violent crime by calling (843) 573-8828 today.