Claiming self-defense is common among most people facing assault and battery charges. The law allows you to defend yourself, your property and your family members in the face of imminent harm. However, for your self-defense claim to stand, it must meet the legal...
Criminal Defense
What everyone needs to know about the plain view doctrine
Most people know that law enforcement officers typically can’t just come into your home or other property, start looking through your belongings and take anything they find suspicious. Thanks to the Fourth Amendment, they typically need a search warrant signed by a...
Should you accept a plea deal?
If you face criminal charges, you might assume your case will go to trial. That’s what countless TV law shows would have you believe. You have a right to a trial, but most people never exercise that right. Over 95% of all cases are settled via plea bargain, so why...
4 mistakes people make when the police knock on their doors
You can almost always tell when a police officer is at the door. The so-called cop knock is hard to ignore. Many people feel nervous when the police arrive at their front door, and their nervousness may lead to poor decision-making. There are mistakes that can easily...
What you need to know about implied consent in South Carolina
Driving is a privilege but also a responsibility. When you get behind the wheel, you may not realize the applicable laws. Unfortunately, just because you do not know the law does not mean you can’t be arrested for breaking it. If you are pulled over and arrested for...
What constitutes an unlawful arrest?
Being arrested for any reason can be very depressing. Things become a lot more unsettling if the arrest happens beyond the scope of proper legal justification. If this happens, the arrest may qualify as unlawful. The 4th Amendment protects all persons from unlawful...
Know your right to remain silent
The United States Constitution provides people in this country with specific rights. One of these is that you have the right to not speak to police officers beyond providing basic identifying information. The Fifth Amendment is where you can find information about...
Does your drinking provide an excuse for the bar fight you had?
A physical altercation with another person in South Carolina could easily lead to assault charges. Even if the other person doesn't suffer serious injuries, they could ask the state to prosecute. Other people could also call the police during the fight, leading to...
Know your rights: Public disorderly conduct charges
Public disorderly conduct charges have to be taken seriously because they come with harsh penalties. In South Carolina, there are a few different acts that can land you with this charge. The first is being found in any public place when you are grossly intoxicated or...
3 mistakes to avoid while out on bail
While getting arrested and charged with a crime is scary enough, things can worsen for you if you are not careful. If you have been formally charged and released on bail, it is important to understand that your actions can greatly impact your defense and the final...