When is the Right Time to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
(843) 577-7046Criminal Defense Lawyer in Beaufort, SC
If you have been accused and charged with a crime you are in need of a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Beaufort, 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 Beaufort 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.
- Understanding Criminal Defense Cases in South Carolina
- When is the Right Time to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Beaufort, SC?
- Criminal Defense for DUIs in South Carolina
- Drug Cases in South Carolina
- Can I be Arrested for Drug Paraphernalia in South Carolina?
- Criminal Defense for Assault and Battery Cases in South Carolina
- Everyone Deserves a Reliable Criminal Defense Attorney in Beaufort, SC
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 Beaufort 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 Beaufort, 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 Beaufort, 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 Beaufort, 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 Beaufort and explore every possible angle to have it dismissed.
To begin that process, your criminal defense lawyer in Beaufort, 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 Beaufort 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 Beaufort 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 Beaufort, SC, today to learn more about the complexities involved with drug cases in Beaufort 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 Beaufort, 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.
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Everyone Deserves a Reliable Criminal Defense Attorney in Beaufort, 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 Beaufort, SC
The 28 Best Things To Do In Beaufort, South Carolina
Stephanie Hunthttps://www.southernliving.com/beaufort-sc-6533137
There's a moment at Hunting Island State Park as you're biking along the Lagoon Trail—ocean breezes and intoxicating beach vistas playing peekaboo to your left—when the sandy path turns inland and a sign points to Diamondback Rattlesnake Trail. A good idea? Yes."Yes," it turns out, sums up the best way to experience Beaufort, South Carolina, and its environs, including Hunting Island. Yes, the path less taken is an excellent idea, as is the sweet tea at Blackstone's Cafe. Spending hours strolling through The Old ...
There's a moment at Hunting Island State Park as you're biking along the Lagoon Trail—ocean breezes and intoxicating beach vistas playing peekaboo to your left—when the sandy path turns inland and a sign points to Diamondback Rattlesnake Trail. A good idea? Yes.
"Yes," it turns out, sums up the best way to experience Beaufort, South Carolina, and its environs, including Hunting Island. Yes, the path less taken is an excellent idea, as is the sweet tea at Blackstone's Cafe. Spending hours strolling through The Old Point and gazing at historic homes and even older live oaks offers endless enchantment. But with my eyes peeled for rattlers, I was (yes) relieved that the only serpentine thing I discovered was more of the winding trail along old dune ridgelines through a primordial wonderland.
Ahead, the best things to do in Beaufort, South Carolina, from local shopping to exploring the restaurant scene to appreciating the area's subdued beauty.
Visit Hunting Island
The trail affirms why Hunting Island, a breathtaking 25-minute drive from Beaufort, is South Carolina's most popular state park. With a dozen similar paths and 5 miles of pristine beach, this place leads you back eons in time through an untouched maritime forest with towering pines and ospreys soaring overhead as well as magnolias and saw palmettos tangled with yaupon hollies and wax myrtles in the dense understory. Here you breathe deeper and look more closely. Life slows down, and a sense of awe percolates up.
Take In The Scenery At Waterfront Park
Take a seat on one of the bench swings at Beaufort's Waterfront Park. Wide and welcoming, they move back and forth in a rhythmic lullaby. You can't help relaxing, especially if you happen to catch a sunset or tune into the soft lapping of the Beaufort River against the floating dock, hearing the jingling clink of pulleys against sailboat masts—a mariner's wind chime.
Credit: Peter Frank Edwards A slice of the sweet life from Beaufort’s upscale Saltus River Grill. Credit: Peter Frank Edwards
Waterfront Park showcases the smart civic planning that makes Beaufort such a delight: The town's best vistas are protected and preserved. There are thoughtful amenities (parking, public bathrooms, an amphitheater, picnic tables, and plenty of green lawn for kids and dogs to play on). Plus it's all conveniently adjacent to an enticing array of restaurants, coffee shops, and stores along Bay Street. What better nightcap than to sit and swing a spell after enjoying grilled scallops or top-notch sushi at Saltus River Grill?
Appreciate Beaufort's Subdued Beauty
Beaufort is subdued in the best possible way. She has the same deep history and stunning architecture that her nearby sisters, Charleston and Savannah, are celebrated for, but she's fine staying slightly out of the limelight. Wise and mature, Beaufort wears her age like the badge of honor it is. Her Lowcountry aura feels elemental, with more patina and less pomp. Along Short Street at the edge of The Old Point, moss-heaped limbs cradle historic mansions. Beaufort's treescape shouts of grandeur in whatever language oaks speak. Gardens and yards aren't so much manicured as they are magical. It's easy to see why Hollywood frequently comes calling (a stairwell at The Beaufort Inn features posters from major motion pictures filmed here). Longtime resident Pat Conroy was so smitten that he wrote, "When I came to Beaufort I had struck upon a land so beautiful I had to hunt for other words."
Learn About Beaufort's History
Not far from Short Street, the First African Baptist Church, a Gothic Revival gem built by freedmen in 1865, bears witness to Beaufort's African American, Gullah, and Reconstruction-era history. "Robert Smalls was a member here. This document notes his Sunday school attendance and that he put a few cents in the offering plate," says the Rev. Alexander McBride, a jovial former marine and the church's pastor of almost 20 years, pointing to framed, yellowing pages hanging behind the sanctuary. A statue of Smalls, an enslaved crewman who heroically commandeered a Confederate ship and later served as a U.S. Congressman, is less than a mile away at Tabernacle Baptist Church, where a monument to Harriet Tubman is also planned.
Join Tabernacle Baptist Church for Worship at 10:00 a.m. on Sundays and for a prayer meeting and Bible study at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesdays.
Both churches are worthy stops, along with the Penn Center, the first Southern school for formerly enslaved people, across the bridge on St. Helena Island. Each place gives a deeper insight into the region's vibrant and enduring African American and Gullah Geechee culture.
Providing an overview of Beaufort's past, Capt. Henry Brandt of Coastal Expeditions offers a boat tour that cruises through the area's Native American, Spanish, and French history; Union occupation; and a view of Camp Saxton's tabby ruins, where the Emancipation Proclamation was first read in South Carolina—all interspersed with musings on estuary ecosystems and the fecund marvels of pluff mud.
"You don't fully experience Beaufort until you see it from the water," Brandt claims. After watching dolphins curl and glide from the boat's bow and admiring the town's steeples rising in the background, I absolutely believe him.
tabernacle1863.org; 901 Craven Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29901penncenter.com; 16 Penn Center Circle East, St. Helena Island, South Carolina 29920coastalexpeditions.com
Where To Stay
Anchorage 1770 Boutique hotel in an 18th-century mansion with fine dining at the Ribaut Social Club ; 1103 Bay Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
The Beaufort Inn Historic main inn plus several cottages clustered around a courtyard beaufortinn.com; 809 Port Republic St, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
Rhett House Inn Historic Greek revival mansion that's been a favorite of movie stars rhetthouseinn.com; 1009 Craven St, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
What To Eat And Drink
Blackstone's Café Classic diner-like options blackstonescafe.com; 205 Scott Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
Red Rooster Cafe Extensive breakfast menu, whether you like it country, continental, Lowcountry, or Tex Mex facebook.com; 2045 Boundary Street, Beaufort, South Carolina, 29901
Lowcountry Produce Kitchen Locally sourced salads and sandwiches and a legendary tomato pie lowcountryproduce.com; 302 Carteret St, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
Chapman's Grocer Grab-and-go items plus beer, wine, and snacksinstagram.com/chapmans_grocer_beaufort; 208 West St, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
Plums Waterfront dining featuring soups, salads, and sandwiches plumsrestaurant.com; 904 Bay Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
Saltus River Grill Fine dining with fresh local seafood, Southern fare, steaks, sushi, and a well-curated wine list ; 802 Bay Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
Old Bull Tavern Gastropub featuring a lively bar scene and a lamb shank that does not disappoint oldbulltavern.com; 205 West Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
Breakwater Restaurant and Bar Seafood, steaks, and seasonal dishes with Southern flair breakwatersc.com; 203 Carteret Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
Paninis on the Waterfront Stone-baked pizzas, paninis, seafood, and pastas paninisonthewaterfront.com; 926 Bay Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
Wren Bistro & BarModern-American food with low country hospitalitywrenbeaufort.com; 210 Carteret St., Beaufort, SC 29902
Where To Shop
Cabana22 Coastal-chic boutique cabana22.com; 819 Bay Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
The Chocolate Tree Confections such as fudge, truffles, and peanut brittle facebook.com; 507 Carteret Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
The Beaufort Candy Shop Classic candies and sweet treats of every kind; 103 West Street Extension, Beaufort, South Carolina 29906
Lisa Rivers Fine Art Gullah-inspired art, prints, and gifts lisariversart.com; 917c Bay Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
Cassandra Gillens Art / Gullah Art in De Woods Paintings, posters, and gifts; 711 Bladen Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29906
Good Aura Sustainable clothing and jewelry boutique shopgoodaura.com; 221 West Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
Monkey's Uncle Toys, fun, and games for children of all ages monkeysuncletoys.com; 909 Bay Street, Beaufort, South Carolina 29902
What To Do
Hunting Island; St. Phillips Island; southcarolinaparks.comPat Conroy Literary Center; Coastal Expeditions; Reconstruction Era National Historic Park; nps.gov/reerSpanish Moss Trail; Craven Street en route to The Old Point to explore historic neighborhoods
Tides to Tables Restaurant Week starts Friday
yourislandnews.comhttps://yourislandnews.com/tides-to-tables-restaurant-week-starts-friday/
Event is culinary extension of Beaufort Oyster Festival From staff reportsTides to Tables Restaurant Week, featuring local restaurants and their amazing cuisine, opens Friday, Jan. 9, opening the week-long run up to the Beaufort Oyster Festival, to be held on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 17 and 18.The event is hosted by the Beaufort Area Hospitality Association (BAHA) in partnership with the Beaufort-Port Royal-Sea Islands Convention and Visitors Bureau and in conjunction with South Carol...
Event is culinary extension of Beaufort Oyster Festival
From staff reports
Tides to Tables Restaurant Week, featuring local restaurants and their amazing cuisine, opens Friday, Jan. 9, opening the week-long run up to the Beaufort Oyster Festival, to be held on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 17 and 18.
The event is hosted by the Beaufort Area Hospitality Association (BAHA) in partnership with the Beaufort-Port Royal-Sea Islands Convention and Visitors Bureau and in conjunction with South Carolina Restaurant Week.
Participating local restaurants typically offer an existing menu item at a special discount price or a special multi-course menu or a special featured appetizer or cocktail.
Participating restaurants this year include Sea Sea’s Honey Hole Bait & Tackle Shop, Chef Frank’s Bistro, The Fillin’ Station, Q on Bay, Shellring Ale Works, Scratch Italian Kitchen, Rotten Little Bastard Distillery, Breakwater, Ribaut Social Club, Dockside and more.
Menus for the participating restaurants can be found at https://bit.ly/49G74M9 or the Beaufort Area Hospitality Association’s Facebook page.
New for this year is SALT – Savoring Authentic Lowcountry Tradition.
SALT is the premier kickoff to Tides to Tables Restaurant Week, the culinary extension of the Beaufort Oyster Festival.
SALT takes place from 7 to 10 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 10 at Tabby Place in Beaufort. The event unites 15 of Beaufort’s top chefs, restaurateurs, and local producers for an immersive tasting experience highlighting the essence of tidal cuisine — dishes shaped by the rhythm of our waters and the heart of our hospitality.
This is a cocktail formal event. Guests are encouraged to dress in elevated cocktail attire to complement this upscale culinary experience. i.e., No jeans, t-shirts, or casual wear. Dresses and suits encouraged.
Tickets, which are $100 and can be purchased at www.ticketsignup.io/TicketEvent/SALT26, include live entertainment, beer and wine all evening. This is a 21-and-up event.
Roaches, rodents & black mold. Worst December restaurant inspections for Beaufort & Jasper
Hilton Head Island Packethttps://www.islandpacket.com/news/local/article314212148.html
Five Beaufort County food businesses and two Jasper County locations received B and C grades in December health inspections conducted by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture.Here is a rundown of the restaurants that received the lowest ratings for the month and why they scored poorly:El Don Juan: 1 Mathews Court, Suite C, Hilton HeadEl Don Juan had a routine inspection on Dec. 1 and scored a 78% (B). Issues noted by inspectors included:El Don Juan was reinspected on Dec. 10 and scored a 100% (A)....
Five Beaufort County food businesses and two Jasper County locations received B and C grades in December health inspections conducted by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture.
Here is a rundown of the restaurants that received the lowest ratings for the month and why they scored poorly:
El Don Juan: 1 Mathews Court, Suite C, Hilton Head
El Don Juan had a routine inspection on Dec. 1 and scored a 78% (B). Issues noted by inspectors included:
El Don Juan was reinspected on Dec. 10 and scored a 100% (A).
La Marmota: 1180 Ribaut Road, Unit 6, Beaufort
La Marmota had a routine inspection on Dec. 8 and scored an 83% (B). Issues noted by inspectors included:
La Marmota was reinspected on Dec. 18 and scored a 100% (A).
Productos Moreno LLC La Casita: 163 Bluffton Road, Suite G, Bluffton
Productos Moreno LLC La Casita had a routine inspection on Dec. 11 and scored an 85% (B). Issues noted included:
Productos Moreno LLC La Casita was reinspected on Dec. 19 and scored 100% (A).
Red Rooster Cafe: 2045 Boundary Street, Beaufort
Red Rooster Cafe had a routine inspection on Dec. 30 and scored an 84% (B). Issues noted by inspectors included:
Red Rooster Cafe has not been reinspected as of Jan. 6, but one is required within 10 days.
Tiger Express #12: 1 Fairfield Road, Beaufort
Tiger Express #12 had a routine inspection on Dec. 19 and scored an 86% (B). Issues included:
Tiger Express #12 was reinspected on Dec. 29 and scored 100% (A).
Dean O’s Enterprises LLC Savannah Pizza Company: 22141 Whyte Hardee Boulevard, Hardeeville
Savannah Pizza Company had a routine inspection on Dec. 18 and scored a 92% with a C letter grade for repeated infractions from previous inspections. These repeated issues included:
Savannah Pizza Company was reinspected again on Dec. 29 and scored a 98% with a C letter grade for a consecutive violation:
Savannah Pizza Company has not been reinspected as of Jan. 6, but the SCDA report says one is not required.
Roxy’s Restaurant: 11382 North Jacob Smart Boulevard, Ridgeland
Roxy’s Restaurant had a follow-up inspection on Dec. 10 and scored a 98% with a B letter grade for a pest issue. Inspectors noted:
Roxy’s Restaurant was reinspected on Dec. 29 and scored a 100% (A).
What the grades mean
Inspectors give restaurants a grade of A, B or C, depending on the conditions found at the time. Points are docked for various infractions, and restaurants have a chance to correct the problems and improve their score in a reinspection.
The grade scale is as follows:
In December, the SCDA recorded 197 inspections of restaurants, schools, stores, and other food establishments in Beaufort County and 39 in Jasper County.
The agency publishes the results of these health inspections on its website. Newer food-grade decals include a QR code that customers can scan with their phones to see a food establishment’s latest report.
How to request an inspection
If there is an establishment for which you wish to request an inspection, you can submit a concern to the SCDA by filling out this Food Safety Complaint Form.
To learn more about how the grading system and inspections work, click here.
These places in Beaufort County will offer free meals on Christmas Day
Drew Martinhttps://www.islandpacket.com/news/local/article313900365.html
The Lowcountry’s tradition of helping its neighbors continues this Christmas, ensuring everyone can enjoy a home-cooked holiday meal.For those who may not have family nearby, plans for Christmas Day or simply want to share the holiday with others, two Beaufort area eateries will offer free community meals to celebrate the holiday.Here’s where folks can find free, community Christmas meals this year:A Christmas Community Lunch at Sea Eagle MarketA Christmas Community Lunch offering connection and comf...
The Lowcountry’s tradition of helping its neighbors continues this Christmas, ensuring everyone can enjoy a home-cooked holiday meal.
For those who may not have family nearby, plans for Christmas Day or simply want to share the holiday with others, two Beaufort area eateries will offer free community meals to celebrate the holiday.
Here’s where folks can find free, community Christmas meals this year:
A Christmas Community Lunch at Sea Eagle Market
A Christmas Community Lunch offering connection and comfort will take place at Sea Eagle Market.
The lunch will be held on Christmas Day from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 2149 Boundary Street.
All are welcome, and the event is designed to ensure that no one has to spend Christmas alone.
Sea Eagle Market says guests can expect a warm meal, friendly conversation and good company.
Orphans & Strays Christmas Dinner with Hemingway’s Bistro & Panini’s
This beloved, decades-old tradition continues on Christmas Day, starting at 2:00 p.m. at Hemingway’s Bistro on the Beaufort waterfront.
Hosted by Hemingway’s Bistro and Panini’s on the Waterfront, this annual free Community Christmas Dinner invites anyone to attend the potluck-style meal, where those who wish are encouraged to bring a side dish to share, though it is not required.
Hemingway’s and Panini’s donate their time to prepare the main entrées along with additional sides.
The meal is free and open to everyone, including locals and visitors who might otherwise have few options for spending the holiday.
Hemingway’s Bistro is located at 920 Bay Street in downtown Beaufort’s Waterfront Park, with Panini’s next door at 926 Bay Street.
If we missed a spot, please email amiller@islandpacket.com to have it added to the list:
Your guide to New Year’s Eve fireworks, events, open restaurants in Hilton Head, Beaufort, Bluffton
Hilton Head Island Packethttps://www.islandpacket.com/news/local/article313904203.html
Ready to ring in 2026?Residents and holiday visitors across the Lowcountry will have several chances to celebrate the New Year with events, ball drops, dinners and waterfront fireworks on New Year’s Eve.From Hilton Head Island to downtown Beaufort, communities are offering family-friendly events to welcome the year ahead.Here’s a running list of New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day festivities taking place across Beaufort County:Hilton Head IslandOne of the area’s most popular N...
Ready to ring in 2026?
Residents and holiday visitors across the Lowcountry will have several chances to celebrate the New Year with events, ball drops, dinners and waterfront fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
From Hilton Head Island to downtown Beaufort, communities are offering family-friendly events to welcome the year ahead.
Here’s a running list of New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day festivities taking place across Beaufort County:
Hilton Head Island
One of the area’s most popular New Year’s Eve celebrations, Harbour Town’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop.
Taking place at 149 Lighthouse Road, this event features entertainment, food and music. To celebrate the start of 2026, an illuminated ball will drop twice — once at 7 p.m. for families with younger children and again at midnight to welcome the New Year. The $9 Sea Pines gate fee is needed for entry.
In addition to the onshore festivities, guests can celebrate from the water aboard the New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise with Vagabond Cruise. The cruise runs from 5 to 7 p.m. and departs from the Harbour Town Yacht Basin. Dinner is included and reservations are required. Tickets are $109 for adults and $70 for children aged 3 to 12.
Beaufort
For those in search of fireworks, in Beaufort, the New Year will be welcomed with a fireworks display over the Beaufort River at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.
Set against the backdrop of Beaufort’s historic waterfront, the display is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m., lighting up the sky with colorful bursts over the river.
Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the waterfront. This event is free and open to the public.
Restaurants to visit for New Year’s Eve
Below is a list of restaurants serving prix fixe meals or hosting New Year’s Eve celebrations. Click on each restaurant to be directed to the webpage.
If we missed a spot, please email amiller@islandpacket.com to have it added:
Hilton Head
Bluffton
Beaufort & Port Royal
New Year’s Day events
Hilton Head Island will host its annual Polar Plunge at Coligny Beach on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026.
Held at 1 Coligny Circle, the event begins at 9:30 a.m. with activities and t-shirts. The plunge into the ocean is at 11 a.m. This event is free.
The 16th annual Pelican Plunge will take place on New Year’s Day at Hunting Island State Park, located at 2555 Sea Island Parkway.
Festivities begin with a costume parade at 12:30 p.m., followed by the official plunge into the ocean at 1 p.m. The event features prizes, food trucks and commemorative T-shirts for participants.
Tickets are required to take part in the plunge. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children.
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