When is the Right Time to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
(843) 577-7046Criminal Defense Lawyer in Anderson, SC
If you have been accused and charged with a crime you are in need of a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Anderson, SC. Having a skilled and dedicated criminal defense lawyer on your side is key in order to protect your freedoms and to ensure that a proper legal defense is built to shield you. Dealing with legal charges in Anderson can be a highly distressing ordeal with even minor violations causing considerable impact on an individual's personal and work life. The repercussions of having a criminal record can be severe, leading to loss of employment, severed relationships and alienation from loved ones.
At Theos Law Firm we offer trustworthy legal representation to those who need it most. Our criminal defense team has over 50 years of combined experience and is committed to ensuring our clients maintain their freedom and move forward with their lives. From handling drug-related charges to more nuanced federal cases, sexual misconduct offenses and murder cases, we take a personalized approach to every case. By utilizing cutting-edge legal strategies and decades of combined experience, we provide the best opportunity to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Service Areas
We help clients overcome criminal charges in a wide range of cases, including the following:
- Homicides
- Drug Crimes
- Juvenile Crimes
- Sex Crimes
- Theft Crimes
- Violent Crimes
- Misdemeanor Offenses
- Federal Offenses
- More
If you are facing one or more of the charges above, it's imperative that you establish contact with a legal advocate ASAP. At Theos Law, you can rest easy knowing our phone line is always open. When your future is up for grabs, let our team of criminal defense lawyers fight for your rights. It all starts with a free consultation at our law firm in Anderson where we will educate you on the particulars of the charges you're facing and explain the next steps in our representation.
At this point, you probably have many questions in mind. Keep reading for more information on criminal law in South Carolina and some of our criminal defense specialties at Theos Law.
Understanding Criminal Defense Cases in South Carolina
In South Carolina, criminal cases are classified into different categories based on the severity of the crime. Generally speaking, offenses that carry a maximum penalty of less than one year are considered misdemeanors. On the other hand, crimes that carry a punishment of more than one year in prison are generally classified as felonies.
State and Federal Criminal Defense Cases in South Carolina
Crimes in The Palmetto State are usually split into three categories: (1) Magistrate or Municipal Level Offenses; (2) General Sessions or Circuit Court State Charges; and, (3) Federal Crimes. Classifications are based on which prosecuting body has jurisdiction to prosecute a particular charge or offense. Regardless of which court your criminal charge is in, the Theos Law Firm has decades of experience protecting individuals from prosecution and assuring that the best possible outcome is achieved.
The Difference Between Misdemeanors and Felonies in South Carolina
Understanding the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony crime can be challenging for someone facing their first charge. Misdemeanors are generally considered minor offenses, and can result in punishment by incarceration up to one year.
Conversely, felonies are more severe crimes which are punishable by incarceration of more than one year. Those charged with a felony may face significant fines and a prison sentences of over a year in a federal or state institution. Convicted felons may face difficulties after their release such as losing the right to vote and the right to carry a firearm. These penalties make it crucial to have a reliable criminal defense attorney in Anderson, SC.
Plea Deals in South Carolina
It is not uncommon for legal cases to be resolved without a trial through a plea deal. In order to assure that the best possible plea deal become available it is crucial for your legal defense to properly build your defense and prepare your case for trial. Deciding to represent yourself or not hiring the best legal team will likely result in exposure to unnecessary penalties, fines and jail time.
When is the Right Time to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Anderson, SC?
At Theos Law Firm, we often receive questions from potential clients about when they should hire a criminal defense attorney for the charges that they're facing. Although each situation and client are unique, there are some common criminal situations to keep in mind. In general, it's always best to reach out to an experienced attorney as soon as you're charged or have been arrested.
Below are some guidelines to help you decide when it's necessary to retain a criminal defense attorney for your case in South Carolina.
When You've Been Accused or Charged
Thinking about hiring a criminal defense lawyer when you're charged with a crime is a no-brainer for most, and for good reason. Our team of experience criminal defense attorneys can offer assistance with various offenses, ranging from minor crimes to more serious ones such as sexual assault and manslaughter. Regardless of the charges, navigating the legal system can be complex, and without the guidance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer, the situation can escalate rapidly. It is critical that you engage an experienced attorney as soon as possible!
When Investigators or Police Question You
As you may have observed in movies or television shows, the police might request you to provide a statement, giving the impression that you are not under arrest. Remember, it is within your rights to have a criminal defense attorney in Anderson, SC, present during questioning, and you should absolutely use that to your advantage. If possible, consult with an attorney before answering any questions or participating in any discussions with law enforcement.
When Authorities Search Your Residence
In the event that law enforcement officers arrive at your residence with a warrant, it indicates that a judge has determined there is reasonable suspicion that evidence related to a criminal offense is present in your home. Regardless of whether they discover and confiscate anything, it is advisable to seek the guidance of a seasoned defense attorney to discuss the situation and receive assistance in determining any potential charges or locations they may investigate in the future.
When You Are Wrongly Accused of Committing a Crime
Could you imagine being accused of something you didn't do? When you are accused or charged with committing a crime that you didn't commit defending yourself may seem straightforward but it can be an arduous task to see to it that the charges are timely resolved. It can also feel hopeless and like it's impossible for you to get someone to listen to your side. The truth is that anything you say or do can and will be used against you. To increase your chances of being cleared of charges, it's advisable to have a defense lawyer who can support your innocence and fight for your rights. Criminal defense attorneys at Theos Law don't just listen - we act swiftly and always with your best interests at heart.
When Your Child Is Involved
The legal system for juveniles in South Carolina is different than it is for adults. It comes with its own complications and hurdles to overcome. If you your child has been accused of a crime it's imperative to get legal counsel swiftly. Failure to do so could be destructive to your child's life, your family or result in a exposure to jail time. Keep reading to learn more about just a few of the most common criminal defense cases we accept at Theos Law Firm.
Criminal Defense for DUIs in South Carolina
In terms of common criminal offenses in South Carolina, DUIs top the list, especially regarding mindful drivers with clean driving records and no criminal history. Unfortunately for these drivers, a DUI conviction in South Carolina stays on your record and cannot be expunged. Even first-time offenses with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent can be costly. Your insurance premiums go up for years, you may end up paying almost $1,000 in fines and fees, and there's a good chance you'll have to perform community service or serve jail time.
If your breathalyzer test result is more than .15%, you refuse the breathalyzer, or it is recorded as a refusal, your license will be automatically suspended, which complicates matters further. Throw in the possibility of interlock device rental, and your life may never be the same. For those reasons alone, it is crucial to approach such charges with the help of a DUI defense lawyer. At Theos Law Firm, our attorneys have years of experience in successfully fighting these types of charges.
Fortunately, if you or a loved one has been charged with DUI, there is hope. That's especially true if the accused has undergone a breath or blood test for DUI. In fact, cases that involve such tests are successfully beaten every day. At Theos Law Firm, we will thoroughly investigate your DUI case in Anderson and explore every possible angle to have it dismissed.
To begin that process, your criminal defense lawyer in Anderson, SC, may seek answers to many questions, including:
- Was your DUI stop legal? If not, your case could be thrown out.
- Is there enough probable cause or evidence for an arrest? If there is not, it's possible to file a pre-trial motion for your case to be dismissed.
- Did officers explain implied consent rights? One of the most common errors police make is failing to take this step.
- Did the police maintain your BAC and breathalyzer results? Breath testing often comes with inherent weaknesses. This can create doubt in a juror's mind.
Criminal Defense for Drug Cases in South Carolina
If you are dealing with drug-related crimes in Anderson or another city in South Carolina, it is crucial for you to understand the potential penalties involved. Possession of a controlled substance may fall under the category of a misdemeanor, but many drug offenses are considered felonies. Even a minor drug offense conviction can result in long-lasting negative consequences. As such, it's always advisable to explore your options and seek the assistance of a Anderson drug crime attorney. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can help safeguard your rights and may help achieve a favorable outcome.
One of the most frequent questions we hear at Theos Law is, "What does possession mean?"
Drug charges based on possession in South Carolina are divided into three categories:
- Simple Possession
- Possession with Intent to Distribute
- Drug Trafficking
However, the state also has other drug charges that are not based on the weight of the drugs. These include:
- Drug Distribution
- Manufacturing
- Distribution Near Schools, Parks, or Playgrounds
Possession-based drug charges in South Carolina are deemed "graduated offenses" with penalties that grow more severe based on the weight of the drugs. It's important to note that the charges can be based on either actual or constructive possession. Contact a criminal defense lawyer in Anderson, SC, today to learn more about the complexities involved with drug cases in Anderson and other cities in South Carolina.
Some of the most common drug charges we see at Theos Law include the following:
- Marijuana
- Heroin
- Ecstasy
- LSD and Hallucinogens
- Cocaine
- Meth
- Prescription Pain Killers
- Fentanyl
Can I be Arrested for Drug Paraphernalia in South Carolina?
The simple answer to this question is a resounding "Yes." Drug paraphernalia can refer to various items such as pipes, bongs, syringes, scales, grinders, and rolling papers which are linked to drug usage, preparation, storage, or hiding. Even though some of these items may have legitimate uses, like tobacco pipes or medical syringes, they can still be scrutinized by law enforcement if there is proof of illegal drug use or intent.
Criminal Defense for Assault and Battery Cases in South Carolina
If you are facing assault and battery charges, it is possible that you haven't actually physically harmed someone. Many people associate assault and battery with brutal beatings, but that is just one example. There are other situations that are less severe than what people typically imagine.
It's a common misunderstanding that physical injury is required for assault and battery charges. The fines, penalties, and jail time you may face depend on the severity of your charges and the number of offenses. Regardless of the degree of your charges, Assault and Battery is a serious offense that should not be taken lightly. The consequences of a conviction can be life-changing, and as such, your criminal defense lawyer in Anderson, SC, should work relentlessly to fight the charges being levied against you.
Though this list isn't comprehensive, here are some of the biggest factors that dictate the severity of your assault and battery charges:
- Age of Victim
- Severity of Injuries Sustained
- Size and Weight of Accused vs. Size and Weight of Victim
- Whether or Not the Victim Presses Charges
- Whether or Not Weapons Were Involved
- Whether or Not the Victim's Privates Were Touched
Understanding the Degrees of Assault and Battery in South Carolina
Third Degree
Causing harm to someone or threatening to do so with the ability to carry out the threat can result in a charge of third-degree assault and battery. This misdemeanor offense is typically heard in municipal or magistrate courts and may carry a maximum sentence of 30 days in jail.
Second Degree
Causing harm or making threats to harm someone that results in moderate bodily injury can lead to charges of second-degree assault and battery. Additionally, touching someone's private parts without their consent can also result in charges of assault and battery in the second degree. This misdemeanor offense is heard in General Session court and can carry a maximum sentence of three years in prison.
First Degree
Assault and Battery in the first degree can involve a number of actions such as inflicting an unlawful injury when kidnapping, touching a person's privates "with lewd and lascivious intent," and much more. Contact Theos Law Firm for more info on the degrees of Assault and Battery in South Carolina.
Everyone Deserves a Reliable Criminal Defense Attorney in Anderson, SC
At Theos Law firm, we work tirelessly to ensure that our client's rights are not overlooked. Because unfortunately, the rights of everyday citizens are often trampled by law enforcement oversights and legal system failures.
That's why every criminal defense lawyer at our firm works hard to provide guidance and support throughout the legal process by keeping you informed of updates and as comfortable as possible during this trying time. Benefits of hiring Theos Law Firm include:
- Thorough Knowledge of South Carolina Criminal Law & Procedures
- Seasoned Legal Representation in the Courtroom
- Years of Experience Structuring Plea bargains
- Ability to Identify Due Process Violations
- Fierce Dedication to Clients & Vigorous Representation
- Skilled Negotiation Tactics Involved with Bail, Sentencing, Appeals, and More
- Familiarity with Local Prosecutors
Unlike some criminal defense law firms in South Carolina, our team believes that everyone deserves a great lawyer when their freedoms are on the line. If you or a loved one has been accused of a crime in South Carolina, trust Theos Law to have your back without judgment.
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Latest News in Anderson, SC
Top South Carolina football running back Mario Anderson entering transfer portal | Report
Emily Adamshttps://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/sports/college/usc/2023/12/06/south-carolina-football-mario-anderson-enter-transfer-portal-running-back/71826830007/
COLUMBIA — South Carolina football's top running back Mario Anderson plans to enter the ...
COLUMBIA — South Carolina football's top running back Mario Anderson plans to enter the transfer portal, according to a report from On3, dealing another blow to the Gamecocks' offense.
Anderson is the 16th South Carolina player to enter the transfer portal since it opened on Monday but just the third starter. The 5-9, 208-pound running back transferred to the Gamecocks from Division II Newberry in 2023, beginning the season behind Dakereon Joyner before taking over in Week 4. Anderson led the team with 707 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 143 carries, plus 153 yards receiving.
The redshirt senior was a Division II All-American at Newberry in 2022, setting program records with 1,560 rushing yards and 35 touchdowns. He earned Division II All-America honors and was a finalist for the Harlon Hill Trophy, the Division II equivalent of the Heisman.
This is the second consecutive year in which South Carolina's top running back has entered the transfer portal. Leading rusher Marshawn Lloyd left for Southern Cal after the 2022 season. The Gamecocks have lost two other starters besides Anderson to the portal in 2023, wide receiver Antwane Wells Jr. and kicker Mitch Jeter. Top backup receiver O'Mega Blake also joined the portal on Monday.
The Gamecocks (5-7, 3-5 SEC) missed a bowl game this year for the first time under coach Shane Beamer, losing 16-7 to rival Clemson in the final game of the regular season.
MARIO ANDERSON:How Mario Anderson went from Division II walk-on to South Carolina's starting running back
Follow South Carolina football reporter Emily Adams on X @eaadams6 and subscribe to The Greenville News for exclusive Gamecocks content: https://subscribe.greenvilleonline.com/offers.
Get the latest news and insight on SEC football by subscribing to the SEC Unfiltered newsletter, delivered straight to your inbox.
Celebrate Anderson Weekend | Hot Air Affair Announced
Anderson Countyhttps://www.andersoncountysc.org/celebrate-anderson-weekend-hot-air-affair-announced/
Applications for the Library Board are not being accepted at this time. Applications will be made available and accepted should new seats on the Library Board be created.The Cancer Association of Anderson’s Annual Hot Air Affair: Rising Above Cancer joins Anderson County’s Celebrate Anderson for a spectacular 2023 Labor Day Weekend!Celebrate Anderson is our community’s largest annual outdoor concert focusing on family, fun, and camaraderie. This year’s music under the st...
Applications for the Library Board are not being accepted at this time. Applications will be made available and accepted should new seats on the Library Board be created.
The Cancer Association of Anderson’s Annual Hot Air Affair: Rising Above Cancer joins Anderson County’s Celebrate Anderson for a spectacular 2023 Labor Day Weekend!
Celebrate Anderson is our community’s largest annual outdoor concert focusing on family, fun, and camaraderie. This year’s music under the stars will feature world-renowned country artist Martina McBride. NEW to Celebrate Anderson this year: The Cancer Association of Anderson’s Hot Air Affair: Rising Above Cancer event will kick off our Celebrate Anderson – Labor Day Weekend spectacularly. Anderson County is excited to partner with the Cancer Association’s ballooning event, establishing the Celebrate Anderson Weekend and solidifying Anderson County’s reputation as THE Labor Day Destination!
“Anderson County is appreciative of its partners and Michelin, Arthrex and many sponsors for joining with the county in giving back to the local community by funding and to the Cancer Association of Anderson as they provide assistance to many Andersonians through a life-changing experience,” said Anderson County Council Chairman Tommy Dunn. “There’s no need to look further for something to do this Labor Day Weekend; it’s right here in Anderson County.”
The Cancer Association of Anderson is proud to bring the 2023 HOT AIR AFFAIR: RISING ABOVE CANCER to the Anderson Sports & Entertainment Complex during this upcoming Labor Day Weekend! Once again, skies above Anderson County will be filled with beautiful hot air balloons. Mark your calendar for Labor Day Weekend, Sep 1st – 4th! This signature event benefits the Cancer Association of Anderson, the only LOCAL cancer charity in Anderson County.
Join our Hot Air Affair sponsors Anderson County, Blossman Gas & Appliance, AnMed Health, The People’s Bank, and many others as we join with Anderson County’s Celebrate Anderson to bring together more than twenty-five hot air balloons and a Labor Day Weekend filled with Family Fun and entertainment!
According to Cancer Association Director Angela Stringer, “We look forward to welcoming our balloon pilots to the skies over Anderson County every year! The opportunity to join with Celebrate Anderson to provide a FREE event that raises funds and awareness for our brave patients and survivors makes it even more exciting! The fabulous Combo Kings will be performing on the Balloon Stage as well as other local talent. Please come out and join us for a family-friendly weekend with hot air balloons, kids-zone, food trucks, vendors, and much, much more.”
Organizers are expecting 30,000+ people during the three-day event.
CAA will host a couple of training sessions for those who would like to volunteer and/or crew with the balloons. For volunteer or sponsorship opportunities at the Hot Air Affair, please email Angela@CAAnderson.org or call 864.222.3500.
CANCER ASSOCIATION OF ANDERSON
For twenty years, the Cancer Association of Anderson has fulfilled its mission to “lessen the burden on Anderson County residents who are battling cancer” by providing financial, physical, and emotional assistance”. CAA is a LOCAL charity and is not affiliated with, nor receives any funding from larger, national organizations such as the American Relay for Life or any Relay for Life events.
Track Covid-19 in Anderson County, S.C.
New York Timeshttps://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/us/anderson-south-carolina-covid-cases.html
These Covid tracking pages are no longer being updated. Get the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control, or find archived data from The Times’s three year reporting effort here.An updated vaccine is r...
These Covid tracking pages are no longer being updated. Get the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control, or find archived data from The Times’s three year reporting effort here.
An updated vaccine is recommended for adults and most children. Statewide, 7% of vaccinations did not specify a home county.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Notes: The hospitals map shows the average I.C.U. occupancy at nearby hospitals in the most recent week with data reported. The data is self-reported to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services by individual hospitals. It excludes counts from hospitals operated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Indian Health Service. Numbers for hospitalized patients are based on inpatient beds and include I.C.U. beds. Hospitalized Covid-19 patients include both confirmed and suspected Covid-19 patients. The C.D.C. stopped reporting data on cases in May 2023.
How trends have changed in Anderson County
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Notes: Weekly county death data prior to Jan. 2021 was not reported by the C.D.C. and is sourced from reporting by The New York Times. Hospitalization data is a weekly average of Covid-19 patients in hospital service areas that intersect with Anderson County. Hospitalization numbers early in the pandemic are undercounts due to incomplete reporting by hospitals to the federal government.
Historical trends in Anderson County
The data in these charts has been archived and they are no longer being updated.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The data in these charts has been archived and they are no longer being updated. Weekly county case data prior to Jan. 2021 was not reported by the C.D.C. and is sourced from reporting by The New York Times. The C.D.C. stopped reporting data on cases in May 2023. Test positivity data is based only on test results reported to the federal government and is a seven-day average.
What’s in store for Anderson Co. in 2024
Eriana Meadowshttps://www.wspa.com/news/local-news/whats-in-store-for-anderson-co-in-2024/
ANDERSON CO., S.C. (WSPA) — For years Anderson County has been looking at ways to improve the economic development.“We’re expecting a banner year and economic development and a lot of growth, a lot of job opportunities and alot of new things for our citizens to do,” Rusty Burns, Anderson County Administrator.Anderson County’s new year “to-do list” starts with the Historic Courthouse. Leaders said it will cost around $8 million for structural repairs.“We need a new roof. We ...
ANDERSON CO., S.C. (WSPA) — For years Anderson County has been looking at ways to improve the economic development.
“We’re expecting a banner year and economic development and a lot of growth, a lot of job opportunities and alot of new things for our citizens to do,” Rusty Burns, Anderson County Administrator.
Anderson County’s new year “to-do list” starts with the Historic Courthouse. Leaders said it will cost around $8 million for structural repairs.
“We need a new roof. We need to replace some of the timbers that are holding up the clock tower as well as repoint the bricks on the outside,” said Burns.
Burns said fixing the 125 year old building needs to happen now in hopes it will last another 125 years.
Starting the second week of January, crews will be in the attic by the bell tower.
“We paid off another bond so when we paid it off of that bond, that freed up some space for us to do the $8 million bond without any tax increase necessary,” said Burns.
Across the street from the old courthouse is what the county calls “the new courthouse” which is 32 years old.
In January, crews will begin minor updates like the replacing carpet.
“Both courthouses will get some love, the old courthouse will get the most love and as money becomes available we’ll be doing projects at the new courthouse,” said Burns.
Not only will the courthouses have upgrades, but so will the old Equinox Mill. The mass of rubble will be turned into townhomes and apartments.
“It’s our desire because there’s a housing shortage in Anderson. We want to work with people to put housing available in Anderson County and in all socioeconomic classes,” said Burns.
The county said they’ve also received a grant for “safe streets” for improvements to roads and bridges. This project will tap into another area of federal funding using a penny sales tax.
“County council’s already had two readings on the penny sales tax, which would bring in $49 million a year, we will have the third reading, the first meeting in January. It will be up to voters to decide if they want something to happen,” said Burns.
According to the county, a What-A-Burger will kick off its expansion into the upstate with 10 new restaurants, one coming to Anderson fall 2024.
Anderson University seniors suddenly left to find a place to stay due to lack of on campus housing
Carlos Cristian Floreshttps://www.wyff4.com/article/anderson-university-seniors-left-to-find-place-to-stay-lack-of-on-campus-housing/46913418
ANDERSON, S.C. —Many rising seniors at Anderson University are now facing a new challenge, finding a place to live for next semester.In an email sent to students, university leaders announced there wasn't enough housing for all enrolled students. This led them to create a lottery system."I was bummed for my friends that aren't going to be able to live here next year but it was kind of expected," Reade Ward said.The system will give 243 students the option to stay on campus. The oth...
ANDERSON, S.C. —
Many rising seniors at Anderson University are now facing a new challenge, finding a place to live for next semester.
In an email sent to students, university leaders announced there wasn't enough housing for all enrolled students. This led them to create a lottery system.
"I was bummed for my friends that aren't going to be able to live here next year but it was kind of expected," Reade Ward said.
The system will give 243 students the option to stay on campus. The others with have to find housing off campus.
Officials said they have been able to house 67% of the 388 seniors who have applied for housing since sending that initial email.
"What I'm thinking happened is a lot more incoming freshmen decided to accept and come to Anderson University for next year above the average rate so we are going to have a giant freshman class and once you send acceptance letters you can't take them back," Ward said.
Many other students worried that this might happen to them.
"I know they are adding a lot of parking and other stuff like that at the AC however that's not housing. Parking is not housing. So it makes me a little concerned in my future here in Anderson," Nathan Widrick said.
Some just wished for better communication.
"I would like to see a plan, a thought-out plan of where to go in the future. Housing selection is coming in next than a month and they dropped this on rising seniors most houses in the area have already been taken," an anonymous student said.
The university released the following statement saying:
"Anderson University is doing everything possible to accommodate the dramatically increased demand of seniors who have applied for housing.
An increase in demand for on-campus housing by seniors has created a false narrative about housing at Anderson University. The University has responded to clarify and actualize the situation. Below is the University’s statement.
Anderson University’s published policies on housing are transparent and have been available to all students and the public since before their enrollment.
Fast Facts:
The senior student body is working on drafting a response to university leaders at this time. Once it is submitted we will include it here.
Disclaimer:
