When is the Right Time to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Barnwell, SC

cd-head-bottom

If you have been accused and charged with a crime you are in need of a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Barnwell, 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 Barnwell 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.

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 Barnwell 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.

Criminal Defense Lawyer Barnwell, SC

Understanding Criminal Defense Cases in South Carolina

cd-head-bottom

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.

 Attorney At Law Barnwell, SC
 Car Accident Attorney Barnwell, SC

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 Barnwell, 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.

 Car Accident Lawyer Barnwell, SC

When is the Right Time to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Barnwell, SC?

cd-head-bottom

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.

 Family Law Barnwell, SC

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!


 Family Law Attorney Barnwell, SC

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 Barnwell, 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.


 Family Lawyer Barnwell, SC

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.


 Personal Injury Lawyer Barnwell, SC

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.


 Truck Accident Attorney Barnwell, SC

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

cd-head-bottom

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 Barnwell and explore every possible angle to have it dismissed.

To begin that process, your criminal defense lawyer in Barnwell, 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.
 Truck Accident Lawyer Barnwell, SC

Criminal Defense for Drug Cases in South Carolina

cd-head-bottom

If you are dealing with drug-related crimes in Barnwell 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 Barnwell 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
Criminal Defense Lawyer Barnwell, SC

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 Barnwell, SC, today to learn more about the complexities involved with drug cases in Barnwell 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
 Attorney At Law Barnwell, SC

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

cd-head-bottom

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.

 Car Accident Attorney Barnwell, SC

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 Barnwell, 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.

What Client Say About Us

Everyone Deserves a Reliable Criminal Defense Attorney in Barnwell, SC

cd-head-bottom

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.

Make an Appointment

Latest News in Barnwell, SC

S.C. Children’s Fund and Old Barnwell fund $30,000 in teachers' projects via DonorsChoose

The South Carolina Children’s Fund and Old Barnwell Golf Club announced a $30,000 donation March 24 to fund 40 classroom projects proposed by Aiken-area teachers through DonorsChoose, an education nonprofit.Representatives from DonorsChoose, South Carolina Children’s Fund and Old Barnwell were ...

The South Carolina Children’s Fund and Old Barnwell Golf Club announced a $30,000 donation March 24 to fund 40 classroom projects proposed by Aiken-area teachers through DonorsChoose, an education nonprofit.

Representatives from DonorsChoose, South Carolina Children’s Fund and Old Barnwell were at Barnwell Primary School and Midland Valley High School to visit teachers shortly after they learned via email that their projects had been funded.

“Seriously, from the bottom of my heart, this is amazing because it makes such a difference to the kids and the teachers and our school,” said Corey Lenon, who teaches culinary arts at Midland Valley, after the group entered her classroom.

Lenon said six culinary arts projects were funded for a total of $2,721. The money will pay for cooking utensils, cookie cutters, classroom supplies and chef’s jackets for the students to wear during culinary competitions.

Lenon said her program has received $44,000 during the past seven years through DonorsChoose and that she mentors other teachers who are seeking funding by posting their projects on the DonorsChoose website.

“You know I’m the queen of this,” she told the visitors. “I’m your ambassador. I promote this again and again and again.”

Midland Valley High received $8,389 for 17 projects in the latest round of funding, bringing their total to more than $40,000 during the past two years, Lenon said.

South Carolina Children’s Fund and Old Barnwell Golf Club each provided $15,000 to DonorsChoose to pay for the awards, said Christopher Ruszkowski, CEO of South Carolina Children’s Fund.

He said 60% of the projects funded are in Aiken County, 25% in Barnwell County and the remaining 15% are in Bamberg and Saluda counties.

“This is our first investment in the CSRA, and I think that was a big driver of it,” Ruszkowski said, adding that this is the first time the year-old organization has contributed directly to teachers. Previous contributions had been to school districts, charter schools or organizations.

He said the South Carolina Children’s Fund has invested about $500,000 in 11 projects thus far, seeking to catalyze educational support and improvement.

He said he sought Old Barnwell’s involvement because of the private club’s philanthropic community focus.

“Because we already believe that the civic and business and philanthropic community should be engaging more — that’s one of our central premises — this partnership made sense for us,” Ruszkowski said.

“We pride ourselves on what we can do for the community, and we wanted participate,” said Joe Stoehner, caddy mentor at Old Barnwell, while visiting Midland Valley High.

Jessica Thorne, vice president for government partnerships at DonorsChoose, was there also.

“We’re just thrilled to be a part of this. We’re so grateful for the community coming together to support local education, and to see the power of teachers doing amazing things for their kids and being able to have the resources,” Thorne said.

“Our organization is celebrating our 25th anniversary. We have funded 3 million projects like this and $1.7 billion has been supplied in the last 25 years. Ninety percent of public schools have been touched by DonorsChoose projects,” she said.

Ruth Morris, school nurse at Midland Valley High, said she has submitted about a dozen proposals to DonorsChoose in the last few years, receiving first aid supplies and an ice machine for her clinic.

The latest awards total more than $1,200, providing supplies for the nurse's office, bandages and tissues for every classroom, and Automatic External Defibrillator trainers to be used physical education classes during CPR training.

“It’s been a blessing. Because my little nurse budget would not get me any of this. I take care of so many kids with diabetes, seizures, all kinds of things,” Morris said.

“I’m blessed to be a school nurse and have the ability to serve my students and staff members, and these DonorsChoose projects will go a long way toward making what I do successful.”

No. 4 South Carolina Finishes Runner-Up at Old Barnwell Derby Matchplay

AIKEN, S.C. – No. 4 South Carolina finished runner-up at the 2025 Old Barnwell Derby Matchplay on Tuesday. The Gamecocks fell, 3-2, to No. 9 Wake Forest in a tightly contested title match that came down to the wire.Freshman Eila Galitsky went 3-0 in her matches at Old Barnwell over the last two days putting the first point on the board for Carolina with a 4&3 victory over Wake’s Macy Pate. Sophomore Maylis Lamoure also went 3-0 in her matches this week putting the second point on the board today for th...

AIKEN, S.C. – No. 4 South Carolina finished runner-up at the 2025 Old Barnwell Derby Matchplay on Tuesday. The Gamecocks fell, 3-2, to No. 9 Wake Forest in a tightly contested title match that came down to the wire.

Freshman Eila Galitsky went 3-0 in her matches at Old Barnwell over the last two days putting the first point on the board for Carolina with a 4&3 victory over Wake’s Macy Pate. Sophomore Maylis Lamoure also went 3-0 in her matches this week putting the second point on the board today for the Gamecocks today with a birdie on 18 to win 1-up.

Senior All-Americans Louise Rydqvist and Hannah Darling dropped close matches that ended on hole 17 so it came down to the anchor match between sophomore Vairana Heck and Wake’s Sky Sload. Heck made eagle on 16 to pull within 1-shot but Sload won the match for the Demon Deacons 2&1 with a par at 17.

Carolina picked up a pair of top-25 wins this week with impressive 4-1 victories over No. 22 Duke in the quarterfinals and No. 12 Virginia in the semifinals on Monday.

Darling, Galitsky and Rydqvist will all compete in the upcoming Augusta National Women’s Amateur April 2-5.

The team will be back in action at the SEC Championship April 14-18. Pelican Golf Club in Belair, Fla. will host the conference tournament for the second straight year. Teams will play 54-holes Monday thru Wednesday with the top eight teams advancing to match play on Thursday. The title match will take place Friday, April 18, and air live on SEC Network.

2025 Old Barnwell Derby Matchplay Championship Match

Maylis Lamoure (SC) def. Chloe Kovelesky (WF), 1-up

Carolina Chacarra (WF) def. Louise Rydqvist (SC), 2&1

Eila Galitsky (SC) def. Macy Pate (WF), 4&3

Anne-Sterre den Dunnen (WF) def. Hannah Darling (SC), 2&1

Sky Sload (WF) def. Vairana Heck (SC), 2&1

FINAL: No. 9 Wake Forest def. No. 4 South Carolina, 3-2

2025 Old Barnwell Derby Matchplay Semifinal Match

J. LaHa (Virginia) def. Hannah Darling (SC), 1-up

Eila Galitsky (SC) def. R. Skoler (Virginia), 3&2

Maylis Lamoure (SC) def. M. Propeck (Virginia), 3&2

Vairana Heck (SC) def. A. Sambach (Virginia), 2&1

Sophia Burnett (SC) def. C. Schiavone (Virginia), 2-up

FINAL: No. 4 South Carolina def. No. 12 Virgina, 4-1

2025 Old Barnwell Derby Matchplay Quarterfinal Match

Maylis Lamoure (SC) def. C. De Troia (Duke), 4&3

Eila Galitsky (SC) def. A. Smith (Duke), 1-up

K. Li (Duke) def. Sophia Burnett (SC), 3-up

Hannah Darling (SC) def. R. Heflin (Duke), 5&4

Louise Rydqvist (SC) def. A. Canado Espinal (Duke), 5&4

FINAL: No. 4 South Carolina def. No. 22 Duke, 4-1

###

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.
 Car Accident Lawyer Barnwell, SC

Service Areas