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

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Myrtle Beach, SC

cd-head-bottom

If you have been accused of a crime, the only thing standing between your continued freedom and harsh legal penalties is a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Myrtle Beach, SC. That may seem harsh, but in this time of turmoil and uncertainty, having a skilled and dedicated criminal defense lawyer on your side is key. Because the truth is that dealing with legal charges in Myrtle Beach can be a highly distressing ordeal, with even minor violations causing a 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 even alienation from loved ones.

At Theos Law Firm, we offer trustworthy legal representation to those who need it most. Our criminal defense team has years of experience and is committed to ensuring our clients maintain their freedom and can move forward with their lives. From handling drug-related charges to more nuanced federal cases and sexual misconduct offenses, we take a personalized approach to every case. By utilizing cutting-edge legal strategies and decades of combined experience, we have a much better opportunity to achieve the best possible client outcomes.

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
  • 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 Myrtle Beach, where we'll educate you on the particulars of the charges you're facing and explain the next steps ahead.

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 Myrtle Beach, SC

Understanding Criminal Defense Cases in South Carolina

cd-head-bottom

In South Carolina, criminal cases are classified into different categories based on the severity of the crime. Generally speaking, offenses that carry a maximum sentence of three years or less are categorized as misdemeanors. On the other hand, crimes that carry a punishment of more than three years 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 two categories: state crimes and federal crimes. Classifications are based on whether a crime violates state laws or federal laws. Ultimately, it's up to the prosecutor to decide which category to pursue charges under. State crimes generally include assault, robbery, domestic violence, theft, and rape. Federal crimes, on the other hand, may be more complex and can include computer crime, major drug trafficking, hate crimes, and money laundering. These types of crimes are often investigated by agencies like the FBI or IRS.

 Attorney At Law Myrtle Beach, SC
 Car Accident Attorney Myrtle Beach, SC

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, resulting in fines or a short stay in a local county jail. Trials and plea deals for these cases move quickly due to their nature.

Conversely, felonies are more severe crimes classified by degrees, with first-degree being the most severe and sixth-degree being the least. Those charged with a felony may face significant fines and a prison sentence of over a year in a federal or state institution. Convicted felons may face difficulties after their release, making it crucial to have a reliable criminal defense attorney in Myrtle Beach, SC.

Plea Deals in South Carolina

It is not uncommon for legal cases to be resolved outside of court through a plea deal. This allows the defendant to acknowledge their guilt on one or more charges without the need for a trial. Both your criminal defense lawyer and the prosecutor collaborate to come up with a mutually beneficial arrangement, which helps avoid the uncertainties and dangers of a trial. By accepting a plea deal, you may receive a lighter sentence and avoid the anxiety that comes with a lengthy legal battle.

 Car Accident Lawyer Myrtle Beach, SC

When is the Right Time to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Myrtle Beach, SC?

cd-head-bottom

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.

 Family Law Myrtle Beach, SC

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. A defense lawyer can offer assistance with various offenses, ranging from minor crimes like retail theft and cyberstalking 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.


 Family Law Attorney Myrtle Beach, SC

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. If they suspect you of committing a crime but lack sufficient evidence to detain you, they may aim to put you at ease and elicit information that can be used against you. 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.


 Family Lawyer Myrtle Beach, SC

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.


 Personal Injury Lawyer Myrtle Beach, SC

When You Are Wrongly Accused of Committing a Crime

Could you imagine being accused of something you didn't do? When law enforcement, a judge, or a prosecutor accuses you of committing a crime that you didn't do, it can be an arduous task to prove your innocence, especially if you have a prior record. It can also feel hopeless and like it's impossible for you to get someone to listen to your side. The truth is that your past mistakes should not 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.


 Truck Accident Attorney Myrtle Beach, SC

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 think or know that your child has been accused of a crime, it's imperative to get legal counsel swiftly. Failure to do so could ruin their life or result in a longer-than-needed jail sentence.

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

cd-head-bottom

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:

  • 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.
 Truck Accident Lawyer Myrtle Beach, SC

Criminal Defense for Drug Cases in South Carolina

cd-head-bottom

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:

  • 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
Criminal Defense Lawyer Myrtle Beach, SC

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:

  • Marijuana
  • Heroin
  • Ecstasy
  • LSD and Hallucinogens
  • Cocaine
  • Meth
  • Prescription Pain Killers
  • Fentanyl
 Attorney At Law Myrtle Beach, SC

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

cd-head-bottom

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.

 Car Accident Attorney Myrtle Beach, SC

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:

  • 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 Myrtle Beach, SC

cd-head-bottom

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.

Make an Apportment

Latest News in Myrtle Beach, SC

Ignite Women’s Conference in Myrtle Beach unites businesswomen, teaches crucial skills

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) - In its second year, the Ignite Women’s Conference treated attendees to speakers and seminars, all aimed at uplifting and celebrating each other.Hosted by the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, the conference boasted several employers and businesses from across the Grand Strand. Also on the agenda were three speakers, headlined by kidnapping survivor Elizabeth Smart.Karen Riordan, CEO of the MBACC, said this conference was created after another one of the chamber’s events garnered some...

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) - In its second year, the Ignite Women’s Conference treated attendees to speakers and seminars, all aimed at uplifting and celebrating each other.

Hosted by the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, the conference boasted several employers and businesses from across the Grand Strand. Also on the agenda were three speakers, headlined by kidnapping survivor Elizabeth Smart.

Karen Riordan, CEO of the MBACC, said this conference was created after another one of the chamber’s events garnered some traction.

“The chamber does a ton of networking events over the course of the year,” Riordan said. “We had started a really successful social event called Women and Wine Wednesdays, and we saw that women really like that peer networking.”

Women and Wine Wednesdays were a huge hit and provided great networking opportunities, but Riordan said there was something missing.

“We were looking to really bring something that had more educational content to it, a little bit more self-care,” Riordan said. “Something that would inspire women, but also give women an opportunity maybe to meet other businesswomen who they had yet to meet that maybe weren’t in their industry.”

Smart spoke to attendees about the power of perseverance. She explained her thought process in surviving even the darkest days of her nine-month captivity.

“I eventually got to a point where I stopped thinking things could get worse because they always did,” Smart said. “So, instead of thinking this is rock bottom, I started thinking, ‘OK, this is pretty bad, not going to lie. This is pretty bad, but how could I make this situation worse?’”

She added that the support she received from her family helped her push through. She spoke at length about her mother, in particular, recounting how her mother always said she’d love Smart no matter what.

Riordan echoed Smart’s sentiments about the importance of community support. She said that same kind of support is crucial for women-owned businesses.

“If you have an opportunity between a huge behemoth and a small, locally-owned business, the Chamber’s always going to recommend that folks really support that locally-owned business. If it’s a woman-owned business, it’s even more important because women are very entrepreneurial, and I think we’re seeing more and more women-owned businesses.”

Riordan said the response to the event has been overwhelmingly positive, and the chamber is already looking ahead to next year’s conference.

Copyright 2023 WMBF. All rights reserved.

Year-round paid parking in Myrtle Beach takes effect Nov. 1

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) - The winter months usually mean free parking in the city of Myrtle Beach, but this year there will be a major change.Beginning November 1, drivers will be required to pay for parking at any city-owned spaces.Public parking used to be free in Myrtle Beach from November 1 to March 1. But earlier this year, the Myrtle Beach City Council voted to do away with those “parking seasons,” meaning payment will now be required in the winter months.Mark Kruea, a spokesperson for the city, said ...

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) - The winter months usually mean free parking in the city of Myrtle Beach, but this year there will be a major change.

Beginning November 1, drivers will be required to pay for parking at any city-owned spaces.

Public parking used to be free in Myrtle Beach from November 1 to March 1. But earlier this year, the Myrtle Beach City Council voted to do away with those “parking seasons,” meaning payment will now be required in the winter months.

Mark Kruea, a spokesperson for the city, said the initiative is less about the money and more about streamlining the city’s parking processes.

“Extending it for these extra four months really isn’t about the money, and won’t generate a great deal of money back to the city of Myrtle Beach,” Kruea said. “But it will regulate parking during those four months, instead of it becoming kind of a free-for-all.”

Kruea added that paid parking encourages higher turnover rates for individual spaces, and will help prevent one car from parking in a single space for the entire day.

Residents, however, aren’t sold on the new policy, including lifelong Myrtle Beach resident Evan Johnson.

“It’s ridiculous,” Johnson said. “You don’t even want to spend time at the beach because there’s no places to park. You’ve got to pay for it.”

For residents of Myrtle Beach, there may be a way to save your money at the meters.

Kruea recommends finding the receipt for your car’s tax and seeing what city the tax was paid in. It’s important to remember, that it’s about where your car’s tax was paid, not necessarily where you live.

“It’s not whether the person is eligible, but whether the car is eligible,” Kruea explained. “So, if the car pays taxes inside the city of Myrtle Beach, we count that tax payment as your payment for parking, whether you ever occupy a paid parking space or not.”

Drivers who paid their car tax in Myrtle Beach can bring their receipt to the Pavilion Parking Garage on the corner of Ninth Avenue North and Kings Highway. Drivers will receive a city decal to display on their car, indicating that their car is exempt from parking payments in public spaces.

Johnson thinks programs like that are well-intentioned, but don’t account for Horry County residents who may not live in Myrtle Beach, but visit very frequently.

“That’s fair to some, but what about the rest of the locals?” Johnson said. “Loris and Conway, that’s not fair for them. A lot of them work down here every day.”

Paid parking is enforced from 9 a.m. to midnight seven days a week.

The city said the money generated from parking payments will go towards various projects around the city.

Copyright 2023 WMBF. All rights reserved.

Horry County is getting a new housing development in Longs, S.C. Here are the details

As new construction projects continue throughout Horry County, a new home development is in the works close to the North Myrtle Beach and Longs area.Chestnut Farms is a new home community planned for 2471-2363 Chestnut Road, just off Veterans Highway. The 38-acre plot of land will have 72 homes.Building has yet to start on the property, but site work is underway. Chestnut...

As new construction projects continue throughout Horry County, a new home development is in the works close to the North Myrtle Beach and Longs area.

Chestnut Farms is a new home community planned for 2471-2363 Chestnut Road, just off Veterans Highway. The 38-acre plot of land will have 72 homes.

Building has yet to start on the property, but site work is underway. Chestnut Farms is a DRB Group project; the home-building company has multiple developments spanning the East Coast from Pennsylvania to Florida. The company DRB Group South Carolina LLC bought the Chestnut Farms property in June 2023 for about $2.1 million, according to Horry County Land Records.

Prospective buyers will choose from five-floor designs— three one-floor plans ranging from 1450-1900 square feet with two-car garages to two two-floor plans that go from 1900-2700 square feet.

“Some floor plans will live larger with additional bonus rooms (and) bedrooms because you have the ability and the flexibility to add some structural options,” Homes Division VP of Sales & Marketing Lindy Sfirlea said. “We definitely want that because of the nice, larger home site that families might be able to enjoy.

While still not set in stone, home prices will range from roughly $280,000 to around $300,000, Sfirlea said. She added that a pond would also be a part of the new community. Sfirlea added building should hopefully begin by the third or fourth quarter of 2024.

Chestnut Farms is not the only project DRB Group has planned for the Grand Strand region. Sfirlea said the company is planning on 250 closing in the next two years and is looking at Longs, Little River, Conway and North Myrtle Beach as other possible locations.

Sfirlea added that the company also plans to bring a 55 and older community to the Grand Strand, similar to DRB Group’s other communities in Charleston, S.C. that also featured community amenities like swimming pools, dog parks and pickleball.

“It’s really that 55-plus buyer that’s ‘Okay, now it’s about me, I’m going to live it up. I want the humanity lifestyle lock and leave low maintenance living single level living,’” Sfirlea said.

A Myrtle Beach chef will appear on The Today Show. Here’s how to watch.

Winna’s Kitchen is going national again.Jess Sagun, owner of the 819 Main St. eatery, will cook live during on The Today Show Oct. 25 during its third hour....

Winna’s Kitchen is going national again.

Jess Sagun, owner of the 819 Main St. eatery, will cook live during on The Today Show Oct. 25 during its third hour.

The appearance comes a year after Sagun took home top honors on “Chef Swap at The Beach,” a Cooking Channel competition that forces chefs to switch kitchens to create themed dishes.

Sagun posted a photograph of herself next to Al Roker on Winna’s Kitchen Facebook page to announce her appearance.

Roker, known for anchoring The Today Show’s weather segments, was on the Grand Strand last month filming with local stations.

The Today Show, now in its 72nd season, airs from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. weekdays or streaming live on Peacock.

Roker co-hosts the program’s third hour.

This story was originally published October 24, 2023, 10:53 AM.

Carolina Forest is getting a new New York-style pizzeria restaurant. Here’s the menu

Carolina Forest is getting a new pizzeria as the section of Myrtle Beach continues to see new businesses and development.Sergio’s Pizza is a restaurant chain with locations in Brooklyn, Riverhead and Malta, New York, as well as locations in Utah and Raleigh, N.C.The eatery will be at the ...

Carolina Forest is getting a new pizzeria as the section of Myrtle Beach continues to see new businesses and development.

Sergio’s Pizza is a restaurant chain with locations in Brooklyn, Riverhead and Malta, New York, as well as locations in Utah and Raleigh, N.C.

The eatery will be at the new Forest Marketplace at 2248 Carolina Forest Blvd. next to the new Shell Station.

Sergio’s Pizza offers many varieties of pizza, including cheese pies, meat lovers and buffalo chicken pizzas.

The restaurant also serves Sicilian style that comes in thick doughy squares and Grandma style, reminiscent of the pizza your nonna would make, which is rectangular but crispier and thinner.

Sergio’s classic slice is New York style with a thin crust, akin to a slice from John’s of Bleecker Street, Sergio’s owner Michael Pavone said.

Sergio’s will also get its bread from a Long Island, N.Y. bakery. He added Sergio’s makes its pizza in a gas oven heated to 600 degrees Fahrenheit.

“We’re a New York-style pizza. We keep it simple, old school,” Pavone said.

The eatery will also have a full Italian menu with calzones, pastas, chicken parmesan and many more. Pavone said the Myrtle Beach location should open in two to three months.

He added the pizzeria will cater to Grand Stranders who moved to the area from the New York area and are looking for a taste of home.

“People are starting to miss just that flavor from back home that they grew up with ... If you could just somehow mimic what they’re used to, (it) becomes an instant success,” he said. “I know we’ll be able to bring that.”

Sergio’s will have delivery and seating for 50-60 people and will serve wine and beer, Pavone said. The restaurant will also have televisions and patios for people to sit and eat a slice or full pie.

“We’ll have the white subway tile halfway up, and the rest of the wall (will be) red tablecloths will be the red and white checkered, just give you that Little Italy, New York feel when you walk in.”

Sergio’s is also hiring, Pavone said. The pizzeria will employ between 20-25 people for the location, and he added more Sergio’s could be coming to the Grand Strand region.

Pavone is looking to expand to either the Socastee or Conway area in the next one to two years, but plans aren’t finalized.

This story was originally published November 1, 2023, 12:00 AM.

Disclaimer:

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.