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

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Mount Pleasant, 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 Mount Pleasant, 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 Mount Pleasant 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 Mount Pleasant where we will educate you on the particulars of the charges you're facing and explain the next steps in our representation.

At this point, you probably have many questions in mind. Keep reading for more information on criminal law in South Carolina and some of our criminal defense specialties at Theos Law.

Criminal Defense Lawyer Mount Pleasant, SC

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 Mount Pleasant, 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 Mount Pleasant, 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 Mount Pleasant, 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 Mount Pleasant and explore every possible angle to have it dismissed.

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

Newly constructed restaurant with ample outdoor space to open this summer in Mount Pleasant

MOUNT PLEASANT — A new restaurant with ample outdoor dining space is set to open soon, though maybe not soon enough for some who long to spend lazy days outside.From recently formed hospitality group High Tide Provisions, Frank & Jack's is targeting a late summer opening at 1434 Ira Road.The restaurant, set on a two-acre lot just off...

MOUNT PLEASANT — A new restaurant with ample outdoor dining space is set to open soon, though maybe not soon enough for some who long to spend lazy days outside.

From recently formed hospitality group High Tide Provisions, Frank & Jack's is targeting a late summer opening at 1434 Ira Road.

The restaurant, set on a two-acre lot just off U.S. Highway 17, will feature an indoor dining area and bar, an outdoor lawn with a live music stage and walk-up bar window, as well as a standalone ice cream shack with sweet treats for the kids.

Local beers, wine and cocktails will be available to pair with a culinary offering of "reimagined nostalgic dishes with a modern twist."

Short rib poutine, pot pie, moules-frites and pizzas are among the items that could land on the opening menu, said culinary partner Jonathan Rohland, who recently worked for Hawkers Asian Street Food out of Orlando. He relocated to Charleston ahead of the debut.

High Tide project leader Stephanie Samuels said she envisions Frank & Jack's as a community gathering space that meets the needs of diners from all walks of life. Its large footprint will also allow the group to host private events, from intimate dinners to more grand gatherings.

"We thought this might be the perfect project for this lot of land," said Samuels, who partnered with Rohland and Alice Lewis to bring the restaurant to life.

The restaurateurs have hired local firms CB Elrod & Co. and Bello Garris Architects to complete construction, while Hunter Floyd Williams of Hunter Studio is leading design efforts.

When it debuts later this year, Frank & Jack’s will open daily for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. For updates visit frankandjackschs.com or follow the restaurant on Instagram @frankandjackschs.

The Fresh Market announces opening date and events at its first Charleston-area store

The Fresh Market's first grocery store in the Charleston area has set a date for its market debut.The North Carolina-based chain this month posted signs about its future 25,000-square-foot Mount Pleasant location that announced it will open April 30 at 8 a.m.This past weekend, the company has been signing up shoppers for its loyalty program outside the store, in addition to mailing flyers to nearby residents.On April 21, The Fresh Market also released a statement saying a grand opening event will follow on May 3 at 7:45 ...

The Fresh Market's first grocery store in the Charleston area has set a date for its market debut.

The North Carolina-based chain this month posted signs about its future 25,000-square-foot Mount Pleasant location that announced it will open April 30 at 8 a.m.

This past weekend, the company has been signing up shoppers for its loyalty program outside the store, in addition to mailing flyers to nearby residents.

On April 21, The Fresh Market also released a statement saying a grand opening event will follow on May 3 at 7:45 a.m. and will include giveaways and food samples.

The specialty grocery store, known for its to-go meals and signature baked goods, is located at 1118 Bowman Road near U.S. Highway 17, between Dick’s Sporting Goods and shoe retailer DSW.

The Bowman Place store has been in the works for more than a year. The Fresh Market assumed a lease from discount grocer Lidl and has been working to complete build-out of the space that previously housed a kitchenware retailer that closed five years ago.

The store had been advertising for open positions online.

Throughout South Carolina, The Fresh Market has nine locations, including three along the coast in Hilton Head, Pawleys Island and Myrtle Beach. The Mount Pleasant store will be the grocer's 172nd location.

The Fresh Market was founded in 1982 and is headquartered in Greensboro, N.C. The company has been majority-owned by Chilean retail conglomerate Cencosud since mid-2022, with New York-based Apollo Global Management and other investors holding a 33 percent stake.

Construction begins on women’s medical center in Mount Pleasant

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCSC) - Construction has officially started on a new 40,000-square-foot women’s health care center in Mount Pleasant.The Center for Women’s Health at East Cooper Medical Center will be a two-story facility and serve as a central hub for women’s health services in the Lowcountry.It will be located right next to the East Cooper Medical Center in Mount Pleasant.Novant Health owns the East Cooper Medical Center and will also own this new women’s medical center.Leaders with...

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCSC) - Construction has officially started on a new 40,000-square-foot women’s health care center in Mount Pleasant.

The Center for Women’s Health at East Cooper Medical Center will be a two-story facility and serve as a central hub for women’s health services in the Lowcountry.

It will be located right next to the East Cooper Medical Center in Mount Pleasant.

Novant Health owns the East Cooper Medical Center and will also own this new women’s medical center.

Leaders with Novant Health say that the estimated cost to build this facility is between $20 million and $25 million.

The new Center for Women’s Health will offer a variety of care, including mammography and breast diagnostics, breast and general surgery, obstetric and gynecology services, as well as urogynecology and surgery.

Dr. Kate White, an OB/GYN physician for Novant Health, says this new facility has been a long time coming and will offer women quick, convenient access to health services all under one roof.

White says one of the many features of this new facility that she is looking forward to seeing come to fruition is the new breast center.

“We recruited Dr. Rick Carter to run our breast center here and he brought with him the technology for our new mammography that is able to detect earlier lesions with using a mammography that also uses some contrast and that is tremendous for the people that have dense breast tissue and that’s a lot of us,” White says.

White says this opportunity is special to her, not only as a Mount Pleasant native, but also as a third-generation female physician, because it allows her to support and care for women in her community, all within a brand new facility.

“If you listen to women, they’re going to tell you what they need, and if we can get someone to listen like we have here today, we will be able to not only give a longer lifespan to our women but a longer healthspan, and that is what the real goal is. Living a wonderful life in a wonderful community and doing it in the best way and healthiest way possible,” White says.

Construction for the Center for Women’s Health is expected to be completed by the summer of 2026.

Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.

Mount Pleasant resort and marina at Patriots Point to be sold

The Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina is under contract, with a transfer of the waterfront property expected to close by the fall.American Financial Group Inc., the longtime Cincinnati-based operator, announced on March 31 that a deal is in the works for the getaway at state-owned Patriots ...

The Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina is under contract, with a transfer of the waterfront property expected to close by the fall.

American Financial Group Inc., the longtime Cincinnati-based operator, announced on March 31 that a deal is in the works for the getaway at state-owned Patriots Point.

The price was not disclosed, but the seller said Monday that it expects to book an after-tax net gain of $100 million from the transaction.

The sale will include the long-term real estate leases to the Mount Pleasant resort's two hotels, the 459-slip marina, a full-service restaurant and other assets.

American Financial Group did not identify the buyer. A representative said the company had no further comment Monday.

The terms include a 60-day review period for the purchaser, which can still terminate the sales agreements. If the deal proceeds, the transaction will be finalized by Sept. 30, American Financial Group said.

The resort is next to Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, one of South Carolina's busiest visitor destinations. It is operated under ground leases with the state. The rent payments are based on a combination of flat fees and a set percentage of revenue from various sales and services at the property.

The original hotel was opened in mid-1997.

The current operator is part of American Financial Group's real estate investment arm and formerly was called Brothers Property Corp. The company acquired the leasing rights from the original local development group for $17.5 million in May 2002 and added the 92-room Beach Club hotel in late 2016.

Pickleball Kingdom Opens in Mount Pleasant, SC

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C., April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pickleball Kingdom, the world's largest indoor pickleball entity, announces the official opening of its newest club in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. Located at 680 Long Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, in the Belle Hall Shopping Center, this state-of-the-art facility is now open to the public and ready to serve pickleball ent...

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C., April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pickleball Kingdom, the world's largest indoor pickleball entity, announces the official opening of its newest club in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. Located at 680 Long Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, in the Belle Hall Shopping Center, this state-of-the-art facility is now open to the public and ready to serve pickleball enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.

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"We're excited to see Pickleball Kingdom officially open in Mount Pleasant, SC, and we couldn't be happier to have Chris and Kelly Ogden leading the charge," said Ace Rodrigues, Founder and CEO of Pickleball Kingdom. "This opening marks another exciting milestone in our mission to deliver a premier indoor pickleball experience to communities around the world."

The Mount Pleasant club features nine premium indoor courts plus a dedicated practice dink court, all designed to provide a world-class playing environment for players of all skill levels. With climate-controlled conditions, a mezzanine viewing area, community room, pro shop, and top-tier amenities, the facility is built to deliver a high-quality experience both on and off the court.

A highlight of the new location is Pickleball 101, a complimentary class created specifically for beginners. This introductory program offers a welcoming and accessible way for newcomers to learn the game for free and experience the excitement of pickleball in a supportive environment. In addition to Pickleball 101, the club offers a full slate of programming, including professional coaching and clinics, youth development initiatives, competitive leagues and tournaments, and opportunities for community and corporate events.

"We're thrilled to bring Pickleball Kingdom to Belle Hall Shopping Center in Mount Pleasant! Pickleball Kingdom is more than just a place to play pickleball—it's a place to make new friends, improve your skills, and have fun! The energy at Pickleball Kingdom is unlike anywhere else, and we are looking forward to creating community with everyone!" said franchisees Chris and Kelly Ogden.

Pickleball Kingdom's President and Chief Global Officer, Rob Streett, added, "Chris and Kelly Ogden have shown an incredible commitment to elevating the player experience in Mount Pleasant. Their passion for the sport and dedication to building community make them the perfect leaders for this club. We're confident this location will set a new standard for indoor pickleball in the region."

To celebrate the grand opening, Pickleball Kingdom Belle Hall will host a special weekend event from Friday, April 25th to Sunday, April 27th, featuring raffle prizes, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, founding member festivities, and special promotions.

To sign up to become a member of Pickleball Kingdom Belle Hall, visit:https://pickleballkingdom.com/clubs/mount-pleasant-sc/

Follow Pickleball Kingdom Belle Hall on Social Media

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pickleballkingdom.bellehall/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557914176289

About Pickleball Kingdom

Pickleball Kingdom is the premier indoor pickleball franchise, dedicated to fostering community and providing world-class facilities. With a mission to create a global network of pickleball venues, Pickleball Kingdom is at the forefront of the fastest-growing sport in the U.S.

As pickleball continues to surge in popularity, Pickleball Kingdom invites driven individuals to explore franchise opportunities and join this exciting growth. For more information, visit https://pickleballkingdom.com/franchise/.

For Franchise or Media Inquiries:Mitch Kistner, Sr. Director of MarketingEmail: 392868@email4pr.comPhone: 888-788-0999

SOURCE Pickleball Kingdom Franchising

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