If you have been accused and charged with a crime you are in need of a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Myrtle Beach, 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 Myrtle Beach 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:
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 Myrtle Beach 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.
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.
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.
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 Myrtle Beach, SC.
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.
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.
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!
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 Myrtle Beach, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Myrtle Beach and explore every possible angle to have it dismissed.
To begin that process, your criminal defense lawyer in Myrtle Beach, SC, may seek answers to many questions, including:
If you are dealing with drug-related crimes in Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach 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:
However, the state also has other drug charges that are not based on the weight of the drugs. These include:
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 Myrtle Beach, SC, today to learn more about the complexities involved with drug cases in Myrtle Beach and other cities in South Carolina.
Some of the most common drug charges we see at Theos Law include the following:
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.
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 Myrtle Beach, 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:
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
2026 South Carolina Governor’s Cup - Best In Class Event (L-R) Duane Parrish, Tracy Connor, Ferren Rajput and Mike Harman2026 South Carolina Governor’s Cup - Best In Class Event Governor's Cup AwardDENVER, Feb. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ONEflight International proudly announces that the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic, the PGA TOUR event co-title sponsored by ONEflight and Visit Myrtle Beach, has been awarded the South C...
2026 South Carolina Governor’s Cup - Best In Class Event
(L-R) Duane Parrish, Tracy Connor, Ferren Rajput and Mike Harman
2026 South Carolina Governor’s Cup - Best In Class Event
Governor's Cup Award
DENVER, Feb. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ONEflight International proudly announces that the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic, the PGA TOUR event co-title sponsored by ONEflight and Visit Myrtle Beach, has been awarded the South Carolina Governor’s Cup Award for Best-in-Class Event. The honor recognizes the tournament’s exceptional impact on tourism, economic development, media reach, and community engagement across the state.
The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic delivered outstanding results in its award-winning year, generating $15.8 million in economic impact, attracting 36,000 spectators, producing over 31 million social media impressions, and raising $225,000 for nine local charities. The event also contributed nearly 10,000 hotel room nights and helped drive record golf participation throughout the region.
"This recognition is incredibly meaningful for our entire organization,” said , President and CEO of ONEflight International. "The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic represents everything we believe in - innovation, excellence, and creating experiences that deliver real value to communities, partners, and fans. Winning the Governor’s Cup is a testament to what’s possible when visionary partners come together with a shared purpose.”
"This award is a testament to the power of collaboration and vision,” said Tracy Conner, Interim CEO of Visit Myrtle Beach at the time of the event. "The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic showcased Myrtle Beach on a global stage, delivering meaningful economic benefits while creating an unforgettable experience for visitors, residents, and golf fans alike.”
Beyond its economic success, the tournament distinguished itself through innovative fan engagement and player-focused initiatives. ONEflight provided complimentary private flight hours to top-finishing players, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to supporting professional athletes while redefining the intersection of private aviation and sports.
"The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic quickly set a new standard for what a modern PGA TOUR event can be,” said Darren Nelson, Tournament Director. "From community impact to player experience and digital engagement, this was a true team effort. Winning the Governor’s Cup validates the hard work of our partners, volunteers, and sponsors who helped bring this event to life.”
The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic will return May 7-10, 2026, at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club, continuing its role as a cornerstone event for Myrtle Beach tourism and South Carolina sports.
About ONEflight International
ONEflight International is a global private aviation company revolutionizing the luxury private jet travel industry since the company’s founding in 2010. It is the fastest-growing market leader developing and implementing technological solutions for non-commercial air travel through BAJit, its proprietary online Book a Jet platform. With over 700 world-class selected aircraft charter operator partnerships and a network of 7,000 private jets worldwide, ONEflight empowers members to seamlessly search, select and book a private flight with a fleet of aircraft at their disposal and excellent customer service from booking to disembarking.
To discover more, visit ONEflight.net.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Dave Rajyagor - VP of Strategic Initiatives
ONEflight International
Email: DaveRajyagor@oneflight.net
Phone: (800) 990-5387
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f2f4b274-8ea9-460a-ac3a-263dbbef145c
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2b55ced0-4fd8-412b-b3ed-3464d3ddd0b3
MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - The Drug Enforcement Administration made a stop in Myrtle Beach on Tuesday to discuss ongoing investigations.Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael Tooley said the DEA is continuing to investigate smoke shops across South Carolina.In December, the administration conducted operations at smoke shops statewide, including Horry County, that were believed to be selling illegal THC products.Tooley said today that those raids were also looking for illegal psilocybin, a hallucinogenic.He adds ...
MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - The Drug Enforcement Administration made a stop in Myrtle Beach on Tuesday to discuss ongoing investigations.
Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael Tooley said the DEA is continuing to investigate smoke shops across South Carolina.
In December, the administration conducted operations at smoke shops statewide, including Horry County, that were believed to be selling illegal THC products.
Tooley said today that those raids were also looking for illegal psilocybin, a hallucinogenic.
He adds that the substance is often in edible products but not listed on the label.
According to Tooley, many of the illegal products are marketed to appeal to children.
“Many of these products are marketed to young people, students, and contain bright colored packaging, but contain highly addictive and potent THC-based products marketed as legal hemp, or chocolate bars containing psilocybin,” Tooley said.
The DEA urges the public to contact them if they are aware of a smoke shop selling illegal THC products that is located near a school, college, park, or playground.
Tooley said 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH, is another drug raising red flags in smoke shops across the state.
The substance has been linked to overdoses, poisonings, and emergency room visits.
Authorities are currently working to make 7-OH a scheduled drug, but the DEA is aware of the substance’s presence in South Carolina smoke shops.
Outside of smoke shops, Tooley said the DEA has uncovered a new drug of concern in Myrtle Beach in the last month.
Medetomidine, along with xylazine, was found mixed with other substances during a drug bust in Myrtle Beach.
Both substances are currently approved for veterinary use only, and are highly addictive, said Tooley.
Tooley said the two drugs are not opioids, but are commonly mixed with them, making them extra deadly as they do not respond to opioid reversal agents.
“They are potentially deadly, in and of itself, used in higher doses, but they do not respond to Narcan or naloxone,” Tooley said.
Tooley also discussed a downward trend in deadly overdoses in Horry County.
In 2025, 129 deadly overdoses were recorded, down from 165 in 2024. In both years, more than half of the overdoses involved fentanyl.
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CONWAY — A psychiatric hospital will be able to open in Murrells Inlet after Horry County Council approved a settlement with the operator on Feb. 3.The 8-4 vote came after many neighbors criticized the hospital's location, saying they didn't want this type of facility near their homes. But most county leaders ultimately concluded the hospital was needed and the settlement would avoid an uphill court fight."We've got to move forward," County Council Chairman Johnny Gardner said, adding that he understood the oppo...
CONWAY — A psychiatric hospital will be able to open in Murrells Inlet after Horry County Council approved a settlement with the operator on Feb. 3.
The 8-4 vote came after many neighbors criticized the hospital's location, saying they didn't want this type of facility near their homes. But most county leaders ultimately concluded the hospital was needed and the settlement would avoid an uphill court fight.
"We've got to move forward," County Council Chairman Johnny Gardner said, adding that he understood the opposition in that community but “this is a countywide issue.”
Asha Vista Behavioral Institute plans to open a 78-bed inpatient mental healthcare facility in the former Hope Arbor Assisted Living Facility along S.C. Highway 707.
In September, the county’s Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously rejected Asha Vista’s request for a special exception to accommodate the project. The board’s vote followed an outpouring of community opposition.
Asha Vista then filed a lawsuit that accused the county of discriminatory zoning practices that violated the Americans with Disabilities Act.
After mediation in December, the county reached a tentative settlement with Asha Vista, but council members wanted to hear from the public before voting on the deal. They held a town hall meeting last week, and that event drew both supporters and opponents.
Residents from nearby neighborhoods spoke out against the proposed location, raising concerns about safety, facility security and lower property values. Supporters countered that the hospital would provide much-needed services in a growing county.
The newly approved agreement will require Asha Vista to make about $1 million in facility improvements. These include an on-site security guard, fencing and gates, and a video security system. The agreement also prevents Asha Vista from becoming a drug or alcohol treatment facility.
Before the vote, Tyler Servant, whose district includes the site of the proposed hospital, urged council members to vote no with him because the residents in that area did not want it.
"Just like all development, whether it be residential, commercial or healthcare, it needs to be done in the right way at the right place at the right time," he said.
Councilwoman Jenna Dukes, however, shared that she had lost a family member because that person didn’t have access to a facility like the one Asha Vista plans to build. She said that mental health is an issue that impacts everyone in Horry.
"I have to support the rest of the county," she said.
Some council members said that if they didn’t approve the settlement they likely would lose in court, wasting public money and losing any concessions in the settlement.
“I understand that your community might want to blow the tax money on defending a lawsuit that we're going to lose,” Gardner said, addressing the critics. “And they're going to be able to do this hospital anyway. ... But the rest of the county should not have to make that sacrifice. It's a big county. This is a step in the right direction."
Council members Bill Howard, Danny Hardee, Al Allen, Mark Causey, Tom Anderson and Mike Masciarelli joined Dukes and Gardner in supporting the settlement. Council members Servant, Cam Crawford, Dennis DiSabato and Gary Loftus opposed it.
After the vote passed, Servant was critical of some of his peers.
“It just goes to show you got to be really careful who you elect in political positions,” Servant told The Post and Courier.
Many of the opponents who attended the meeting were also upset about the outcome. Murrells Inlet resident Anthony Michael Cosentino called the vote disgraceful.
“We are for people getting help,” he said. “But not in our backyard.”
Asha Vista released a statement after the meeting saying the provider is committed to being a good neighbor.
“This decision recognizes a simple truth: our community is facing a real and growing mental health care shortage, and families deserve access to safe, hospital-based care close to home,” the statement read.
The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom. Read more on our AI policy here.On Friday at 1:47 a.m. the NWS Greenville-Spartanburg SC issued an updated extreme cold watch valid from Saturday 7 p.m. until Sunday 10 a.m. The watch is for Oconee Mountains, Pickens Mountains, Greater Oconee and Greater Pickens as well as Cherokee, York, Anderson, Abbeville, Laurens, Union, Chester, Greenwood, Greenville and Spartanburg counties.The NWS sta...
The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom. Read more on our AI policy here.
On Friday at 1:47 a.m. the NWS Greenville-Spartanburg SC issued an updated extreme cold watch valid from Saturday 7 p.m. until Sunday 10 a.m. The watch is for Oconee Mountains, Pickens Mountains, Greater Oconee and Greater Pickens as well as Cherokee, York, Anderson, Abbeville, Laurens, Union, Chester, Greenwood, Greenville and Spartanburg counties.
The NWS states, "Dangerously cold wind chills as low as 7 degrees below possible."
"The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 5 below zero could result in hypothermia or frostbite if precautions are not taken," comments the NWS. "Dress in layers including a hat, face mask, and gloves if you must go outside. To prevent water pipes from freezing; wrap or drain or allow them to drip slowly. Make frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors. Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside."
This watch is in effect until Sunday at 10 a.m.
Extreme cold watch: Be Prepared. An extreme cold watch is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are possible. As with a warning, adjust your plans to avoid being outside during the coldest parts of the day. Make sure your car has at least half a tank of gas, and update your winter survival kit.
Extreme cold warning: Take Action! An extreme cold warning is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are expected or occurring. If you are in an area with an extreme cold warning, avoid going outside. If you have to go outside, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and make sure at least one other person knows your whereabouts. Update them when you arrive safely at your destination.
Cold weather advisory: Be Aware. A cold weather advisory is issued when seasonably cold air temperatures or wind chill values, but not extremely cold values, are expected or occurring. Be sure you and your loved ones dress appropriately and cover exposed skin when venturing outdoors.
Source: The National Weather Service
United Robots South Carolina
Another round of winter weather will be possible beginning late Friday through early Sunday in the Carolinas, Virginia and Georgia. With cold air locked in place, this will mainly be a snow event, with some light ice possible along coastal regions.What You Need To Know While there are still a lot of details to be confirmed, trends are showing a developing coastal low off the Carolinas. With cold air in place, this means significant, impactful snow for the Carolinas, Georgia and Virginia this weekend....
Another round of winter weather will be possible beginning late Friday through early Sunday in the Carolinas, Virginia and Georgia. With cold air locked in place, this will mainly be a snow event, with some light ice possible along coastal regions.
While there are still a lot of details to be confirmed, trends are showing a developing coastal low off the Carolinas. With cold air in place, this means significant, impactful snow for the Carolinas, Georgia and Virginia this weekend.
Winter Storm Warnings will go into effect Friday afternoon for the region. A Winter Storm Warning is issued when snow will be impactful across the warned zone and travel may become difficult. Snowfall totals could exceed 8 inches.
The amount of snow will depend on the location of the low pressure and its proximity to the coast. With moderate temperatures along the coast, at the onset, a wintry mix with snow, sleet and even light freezing rain may be possible before becoming all snow.
Temperatures are forecasted to be colder than last weekend, so the majority of the precipitation would fall as snow elsewhere across South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia. Here's one model's interpretation of the snow, beginning late Friday with most of the flakes falling during the day on Saturday before ending early Sunday.
The heaviest snow will fall Saturday night into Sunday morning along the eastern part of North Carolina.
Snowfall totals will be highest along central and eastern North Carolina with isolated amounts upwards of a foot of snow. Moderate snow will fall along the entire state of South Carolina, with lesser amounts in northeastern Georgia.
As this storm system strengthens, winds will increase with gusts up to 50 mph, with the highest gusts along the eastern part of the region. Snow kicked up by gusty winds could reduce visibility. White out conditions are possible especially Saturday night into Sunday.
This forecast is very fluid, as are all snow events, so please stay with Spectrum News for any updates. Download the Spectrum News app to follow the event as it unfolds and tune in to your local Weather on the Ones forecast.
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