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

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Goose Creek, SC

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

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Understanding Criminal Defense Cases in South Carolina

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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.

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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 Goose Creek, 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.

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

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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.

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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!


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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 Goose Creek, 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.


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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.


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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.


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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

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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 Goose Creek and explore every possible angle to have it dismissed.

To begin that process, your criminal defense lawyer in Goose Creek, 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.
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Criminal Defense for Drug Cases in South Carolina

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If you are dealing with drug-related crimes in Goose Creek 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 Goose Creek 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
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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 Goose Creek, SC, today to learn more about the complexities involved with drug cases in Goose Creek 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
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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

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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.

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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 Goose Creek, 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 Goose Creek, SC

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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 Goose Creek, SC

Goose Creek man faces over 70 animal cruelty charges in major dog seizure

BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. (WCSC) - The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office said a man is charged with 74 animal cruelty-related charges after more than 30 dogs were seized from his property.Loney Leroy Garrett, 77, is charged with 35 counts of ill treatment of animals, 35 counts of no rabies inoculations and four counts of improper burial.Cpl. Carli Carr said these charges stem from a June 22 incident in which deputies responded to a Garretts Court house following an investigation into multiple violations of animal cruelty....

BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. (WCSC) - The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office said a man is charged with 74 animal cruelty-related charges after more than 30 dogs were seized from his property.

Loney Leroy Garrett, 77, is charged with 35 counts of ill treatment of animals, 35 counts of no rabies inoculations and four counts of improper burial.

Cpl. Carli Carr said these charges stem from a June 22 incident in which deputies responded to a Garretts Court house following an investigation into multiple violations of animal cruelty.

They discovered 35 dogs being kept in “deplorable and unsanitary conditions” and found confined in feces-filled crates with urine-soaked wooden boards.

The Berkeley County Animal Cruelty Investigator said that the dogs had no access to clean drinking water, adequate food and their water buckets were filled with dirty, feces-contaminated liquid.

It was later revealed that Garrett transported dogs from Tennessee into South Carolina without required health certificates or proof of rabies vaccinations. None of the dogs were found to be properly inoculated for rabies.

Garrett pleaded guilty to 10 counts of animal cruelty back in 2013, where investigators discovered 200 dogs buried in the same yard. He was convicted in 2015 and sentenced to two years in prison and five years of probation.

He was initially charged with 43 counts of animal cruelty, but was sentenced to 10 charges.

The dogs were removed from his property and are receiving veterinary care and evaluation by the Berkeley County Animal Control and the Charleston Animal Society.

“Charleston Animal Society is proud to support the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office in this critical investigation,” Fuller said. “These dogs were living in unacceptable conditions. We are grateful they are now safe and will receive the veterinary care, food, and compassion they so desperately need.”

His son, Loney Garrett Jr., is also being charged with one count of ill treatment of animals.

The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident.

Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.

Buc-ee’s suing SC company over armed beaver merch

GOOSE CREEK, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - Popular gas station chain Buc-ee’s is taking a South Carolina clothing company to court over its iconic beaver logo.Buc-ee’s filed a copyright infringement lawsuit on May 27 against Goose Creek-based apparel company Born United.Born United has both a private label and sells third-party merchandise from brands like Palmetto State Armory and Nine Line Apparel. Below is the mission statement on store’s website:...

GOOSE CREEK, S.C. (FOX Carolina) - Popular gas station chain Buc-ee’s is taking a South Carolina clothing company to court over its iconic beaver logo.

Buc-ee’s filed a copyright infringement lawsuit on May 27 against Goose Creek-based apparel company Born United.

Born United has both a private label and sells third-party merchandise from brands like Palmetto State Armory and Nine Line Apparel. Below is the mission statement on store’s website:

Born United’s online inventory includes private label men’s “Tac-Bucc” shorts, which feature a beaver with tactical gear and a firearm. The lawsuit also includes pictures of listings for “Tac-Bucc” t-shirts and a PVC patch.

In the suit, Buc-ee’s says they have not granted the brand permission to use their world-famous beaver logo and accuse Born United of exploiting the gas station chain’s reputation.

Buc-ee’s reportedly sent a cease-and-desist letter to Born United, but at least one of the items mentioned in the lawsuit is still on the apparel website as of Monday morning.

The lawsuit seeks to bar Born United from selling the Tac-Bucc merchandise or “any marks identical and/or confusingly similar to the Buc-ee’s Marks, for any purpose.” Buc-ee’s is also seeking damages, legal fees, and any profits from the items.

FOX Carolina has reached out to Born United for comment.

1 dead in early-morning house fire in Goose Creek, SLED investigating

GOOSE CREEK, S.C. (WCIV) — One person is dead after a house fire in Goose Creek early Tuesday morning, according to officials.The Berkeley County Coroner's Office has identified the victim as Danial Skinner, 69, of Goose Creek.Crews reportedly responded to the scene just after midnight, which involved a single family home off Kathr...

GOOSE CREEK, S.C. (WCIV) — One person is dead after a house fire in Goose Creek early Tuesday morning, according to officials.

The Berkeley County Coroner's Office has identified the victim as Danial Skinner, 69, of Goose Creek.

Crews reportedly responded to the scene just after midnight, which involved a single family home off Kathryn Drive in Goose Creek.

Eight separate fire crews worked to extinguish the blaze including Goose Creek Rural, Pine Ridge, Hanahan, Caromi, Pimlico, Goose Creek City, Joint Base, Central Berkeley Fire & EMS.

“It was a significant fire when we arrived, almost half the house was involved in fire," said Chief Bob Maibach with Goose Creek Rural Fire Department.

THE LATEST: Berkeley County coroner identifies one dead in Goose Creek house fire

Chief Maibach said there's no reason to believe this was a suspicious fire or a case of arson, and that SLED is always called in to investigate when a fatality is reported.

A cause of fire was unknown Tuesday. Chief Maibach said his crews often find non-operating smoke alarms at the scene of house fires.

“These are situations that happen and every second counts, so having that alarm that functions and alerts you, even in in the middle of the night, is very important," he said. "Smoke detectors save lives."

The fire was officially reported under control just before 1:00 a.m. Tuesday.

Fire crews were called back to the scene around 7 a.m. to extinguish a small spot fire.

SLED, State Fire Marshals, the Berkeley County Coroner's Office and Berkeley County Sheriff's Office are investigating.

Lowcountry food pantry tightens belt as federal cuts leave shelves bare

GOOSE CREEK, S.C. (WCSC) - Every week, dozens of families flock to the Helping Hands of Goose Creek food pantry for everyday products that feed families struggling to get ahead.For people like Loretta Mitchell, it’s a vital resource.“I am so proud of what I got today,” Mitchell said. “I have some pita bread, some cinnamon rolls. I have fruits and vegetables. All the healthy food that we need.”But recently, the pantry’s shelves have become emptier. Executive Director Nicole Franklin say...

GOOSE CREEK, S.C. (WCSC) - Every week, dozens of families flock to the Helping Hands of Goose Creek food pantry for everyday products that feed families struggling to get ahead.

For people like Loretta Mitchell, it’s a vital resource.

“I am so proud of what I got today,” Mitchell said. “I have some pita bread, some cinnamon rolls. I have fruits and vegetables. All the healthy food that we need.”

But recently, the pantry’s shelves have become emptier. Executive Director Nicole Franklin says budget cuts at the national level have hit them hard. They get much of their food from a United States Department of Agriculture program, but that program is being scaled back.

“In the first quarter of 2025, we saw a decrease of 14,000 pounds in food that we can distribute,” Franklin said. “So if you qualified for the USDA program, you were getting about 35 pounds of food, and now you’re getting about 20. Before, you could probably make three meals out of that. Now you can probably make two.”

On top of that, a large chunk of their funding to purchase food, about $11,000, is tied up in a grant that is being paused, despite it already being awarded.

If less food and less money aren’t enough, Franklin says they’re on track for a record year on the demand side of things, too.

“We went from 3,600 grocery carts that we distributed to 5,200 grocery carts in one year. So there was a huge influx – about 30%,” Franklin said. “We saw one family come in last month that had lost their job with Boeing because of the cuts. So, what we are seeing is that as cuts happen across the country, more people are coming because they have a need.”

Last month alone, Franklin says they fed nearly 500 families.

Pastor Yolanda White came to the pantry to pick up food for one of her parishioners. She says now is not the time to roll back government support for programs that help feed people.

“Those that make that decision are not in need,” White said. “They probably have never experienced what it means to be hungry or to try to determine how they can either pay their rent so they can remain in the apartment where the housing bill is astounding, or feed their family. Or what it’s like having to decide, do I pay my health care bill? Do I purchase the medication or do I purchase food?”

This weekend is the United States Postal Service’s Stamp Out Hunger food drive. Every second Saturday in May, people can leave items at their mailboxes, and mail carriers will pick them up. It generates thousands of pounds of food for local food pantries like Helping Hands.

Franklin says last year there wasn’t much advertising about the drive, and there hasn’t been any this year either. She says they saw a large drop in donations, going from 10,000 pounds to 14,000 pounds from the single food drive to just around 900 pounds last year. She is hoping this year will be different.

She says getting food on the shelves is a critical problem.

“I think that feeding people is the first way that we make a difference. If everyone’s bellies are full, kids are going to learn better at school. Employees are going to perform better,” Franklin said. “Everything across the board is benefited when bellies are full and families are fed.”

To participate in the food drive on Saturday, all you have to do is leave a box or can of nonperishable food at your mailbox, and the mail carriers will do the rest.

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