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

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Greenville, 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 Greenville, 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 Greenville 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 Greenville 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 Greenville, 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 Greenville, 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 Greenville, 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 Greenville and explore every possible angle to have it dismissed.

To begin that process, your criminal defense lawyer in Greenville, 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 Greenville 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 Greenville 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 Greenville, SC, today to learn more about the complexities involved with drug cases in Greenville 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 Greenville, 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 Greenville, 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 Greenville, SC

Salem Radio Network Host Mike Gallagher Returns on the Air in Greenville

CAMARILLO, Calif., May 02, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--...

CAMARILLO, Calif., May 02, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Salem Media Group, Inc. (OTCQX: SALM) announced today that Salem Radio Network host Mike Gallagher will be returning to the airwaves in Greenville, South Carolina, starting Monday, May 6th, 10am to Noon. This is the station that launched Mike’s career as a radio talk show host some 35 years ago. Mike’s loyal fans in Greenville will now have a chance to hear him on the Audacy station, NewsTalk 98.9 WORD-FM, the Voice of the Carolinas.

"This community is where I met my wife, where we raised our kids, and will always be home to me," Gallagher said. "To return to the same station where my ride began all those years ago is simply incredible. Many thanks to Audacy Market Manager Steve Sinicropi and Ops Manager Mark Hendrix for putting this deal together. I can't wait to get back on the air there. Who says you can't go home again?"

Salem Media Group sold WGTK-FM last fall, and that meant Mike and other hosts on that station were no longer able to be heard on the local station. Listeners followed Mike online, and now they can follow him back on the radio. Joey Hudson, Mike's close friend and director of The Mike Gallagher Show charitable foundation, will be playing a prominent role on Mike's show as well as hosting a daily sunrise hour-long show of his own. Joey, a well-known Upstate South Carolina native son, was the popular morning show host on WGTK-FM prior to Salem selling the station.

Owned by Audacy, 100 KW NewsTalk 98.9/WYRD-FM, The Voice of the Carolinas is the most influential NewsTalk radio station in South Carolina and is also available nationwide on smart speakers and the free Audacy App.

ABOUT SALEM MEDIA GROUP:

Salem Media Group is America’s leading multimedia company specializing in Christian and conservative content, with media properties comprising radio, digital media and book and newsletter publishing. Each day Salem serves a loyal and dedicated audience of listeners and readers numbering in the millions nationally. With its unique programming focus, Salem provides compelling content, fresh commentary and relevant information from some of the most respected figures across the Christian and conservative media landscape. Learn more about Salem Media Group, Inc. at www.salemmedia.com.

The next new era? Village of West Greenville on crest of development wave

Developers and businesses alike continue to eye the Village of West Greenville as the location for their next venture.Located just more than a mile from the heart of downtown, it once served as the commercial center for the surrounding textile mill communities. After a period of economic decline in the late 20th century in the wake of the mills closing, the area began to take a second life in the 2000s with the arrival of artists, small businesses and, later, developers.Today, locals and visitors alike can expl...

Developers and businesses alike continue to eye the Village of West Greenville as the location for their next venture.

Located just more than a mile from the heart of downtown, it once served as the commercial center for the surrounding textile mill communities. After a period of economic decline in the late 20th century in the wake of the mills closing, the area began to take a second life in the 2000s with the arrival of artists, small businesses and, later, developers.

Today, locals and visitors alike can explore the variety of art galleries, shops, local businesses, and food and beverage options located in the village.

Several development projects planned over the next few years would expand the village’s commercial and residential offerings, yet another new era for the historic corridor.

Village of West Greenville developments in progress

A major project on the horizon in the village is Woven on Pendleton Street, on the west side of the commercial district between Saco and Traction streets. The mixed-use development will include commercial space for retail, restaurants and art galleries along with 214 residential units — 20% of which will be affordable housing. A pocket park and a parking garage with between 36 and 50 spaces available to the public will also be created.

Brian Schick, a development partner with Woodfield Development, said new construction drawings will be completed by the end of May. The project is expected to be under construction by the end of the summer or early fall depending on the city’s permitting process. It is expected to take a little over two years to complete.

Located next to Woven is another residential development called The Kitson. The project includes 24 townhomes and four individual cottages built on 1.4 acres at the corner of Pendleton and Kitson streets.

Site preparations for The Kitson are expected to wrap up by June, with construction on the townhomes beginning soon after. Drew Parker, founder of the Parker Group, said it will be a phased project with a rolling finish through 2025.

“My hope is that The Kitson will complement an already amazing community and through increased home ownership, will also add stability,” Parker said.

Soho West Village, a planned residential development on the corner of Perry and North Textile avenues, will add new single-family residences to the area. Four homes are planned, each 3,000 square feet and designed in the style of New York brownstones.

The project is being developed by Highlander Development Group. Mary Beth Johnson, Highlander’s co-founder, said construction of the first home is slated to be completed by the end of 2024. The three remaining homes are expected to be done by the beginning of 2025.

A multifamily development is proposed to be constructed at 1146 Pendleton St., the commercial lot located next to United House of Prayer. The project includes a new two-story building that will house 76 residential units. Plans are tentatively scheduled to be reviewed by the city’s Design Review Board on May 16.

Ongoing renovations

New businesses continue to set up shop in the Village of West Greenville, and some longtime tenants are upgrading their space to expand their services and capacity. (Community Jou

rnals, which publishes the Upstate Business Journal, is among the businesses located in the village.)

For example, the building that house Villa West Designs and Naked Pasta will soon undergo a significant expansion. Sarah O’Dell, owner of Villa West Designs, owns both properties at 1286 and 1288 Pendleton St.

To add more space for both businesses, two stories will be added along with additional square footage at the rear of the building. The third floor will be used as an apartment, and residential parking will be created under the building. Additional parking for the business owners and clientele will be added behind the building.

O’Dell said they have been working on the plans for the project for three years and are ready to go. Construction is expected to take a around year to complete.

Renovations are also planned for the buildings located at 1233 and 1237 Pendleton St. The property is owned by Circa 70 which is part of Luxe Brands Collective.

Tom Dillard, president of Luxe Brands Collective, said the buildings that previously housed LashBar and Red@28th will be combined to create two separate spaces for a restaurant and a retail business.

The building will undergo interior and facade renovations. A covered outdoor patio will be created for the restaurant. Parking-lot upgrades will also be completed with landscape buffers added against the building.

The project is currently in the final design stage and then will go through the city’s permitting process. Dillard said a retail business is expected to move in within the next four months and a restaurant tenant in the next four- to six-month range.

Mill Village Ministries is completing an approximatly $6 million redevelopment of its central hub in West Greenville. The nonprofit’s site at 1186 Pendleton St. will be used to house its various social enterprises.

The 10,000-square-foot warehouse building was renovated to house a training center, boardroom, meeting spaces, break room and office spaces. Exterior renovations to the hub included adding a pedestrian plaza, loading dock, stormwater detention and landscaping.

Streetscape improvements, such as adding on-street parking, pedestrian streetlights, bike lanes and more, will also be completed in partnership with the city of Greenville. The city continues to work towards bringing more parking and accessibility to the rest of the village.

Dan Weidenbenner, Mill Village Ministries’ executive director, said the building’s interior work is 90% complete and exterior renovations will begin soon. The project is expected to the complete by late 2024.

“Our plan is to build a future 7,000-square-foot mixed-use building that will likely include retail and office space,” Weidenbenner said. “That won’t be developed until, you know, we think a couple years down the road.”

Spoonbill Gallery and Joseph Bradley Studio are two new additions to the village. Both are owned by national-award-winning artist Joseph Bradley, who purchased the two pieces of land at 1292 Pendleton St. in 2018.

A fire damaged the unfinished structure in 2022, which delayed completion until 2023. The studio and gallery are now open to the public. Bradley said it’s a dream come true to have an established space in the Village.

“I’ve been working so hard for five years on this building and so to be finished and to be able to work in here and be part of the community, I’m so excited,” Bradley said.

Charlotte-based Aston Properties expands presence in Upstate

As one of the Southeast’s fastest-growing communities, Greenville is attracting an ever-increasing stream of people and businesses who want to call the area home.For Charlotte-based Aston Properties, the energy and sense of community here are both familiar and something the company has devoted time and resources to cultivating in communities across the region.Watching and being a part of a dynamic community’s growth is nothing ...

As one of the Southeast’s fastest-growing communities, Greenville is attracting an ever-increasing stream of people and businesses who want to call the area home.

For Charlotte-based Aston Properties, the energy and sense of community here are both familiar and something the company has devoted time and resources to cultivating in communities across the region.

Watching and being a part of a dynamic community’s growth is nothing new to the company, according to president and CEO George Dewey IV. Founded by his family in 1980, Aston Properties has played a role in Charlotte’s growth into the major regional hub it has become.

Dewey said one of the most exciting things about the Greenville market is it is where the Queen City was about 20 years ago. The area’s population growth, quality of life and comparative affordability make it an exciting place to invest in and help to flourish, he said.

This has been the company’s focus for more than 40 years in other communities, primarily through investing in retail shopping centers.

Most recently Aston expanded its Greenville holdings with the acquisition of McBee Station downtown. The company has four other properties in the area, including North Hills Shopping Center and Verdae Village.

Recent shifts in consumer demand have put a premium on a retail center’s convenience and the caliber of experience shopping there can provide, according to Barnes Connell, managing director.

This adds an extra layer of challenge and excitement to working in a market like Greenville, he said.

“Those two types of retail are what we see kind of as the future,” Connell said.

Where possible, the company looks for properties where both aspects can be combined.

“What we have become more accustomed to doing is trying to integrate some of the experiential type of elements into a convenience retail project,” Dewey said.

He added the company is trying to accomplish such a blending with its redevelopment of Sprouts Farmers Market in the North Hills Shopping Center through the inclusion of outdoor patios, seating areas and lighting elements.

“It’s very personal to us, and I think when you connect with the community and you get to know the people in our industry in that community and they trust you and they want to do business with you — I think that matters,” Connell said.

Aston Properties projects in the Greenville area

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