When is the Right Time to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
(843) 577-7046Criminal Defense Lawyer in Orangeburg, SC
If you have been accused and charged with a crime you are in need of a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Orangeburg, 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 Orangeburg 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 Orangeburg 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.
Understanding Criminal Defense Cases in South Carolina
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.
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 Orangeburg, 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.
When is the Right Time to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Orangeburg, SC?
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.
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!
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 Orangeburg, 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.
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.
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.
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
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 Orangeburg and explore every possible angle to have it dismissed.
To begin that process, your criminal defense lawyer in Orangeburg, 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.
Criminal Defense for Drug Cases in South Carolina
If you are dealing with drug-related crimes in Orangeburg 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 Orangeburg 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
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 Orangeburg, SC, today to learn more about the complexities involved with drug cases in Orangeburg 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
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
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 Orangeburg, 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 Orangeburg, SC
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 Orangeburg, SC
Investigation underway by DHEC regarding unlicensed facility in Orangeburg, South Carolina, officials say
A.J. Davishttps://www.wyff4.com/article/investigation-underway-by-dhec-regarding-unlicensed-facility-orangeburg-south-carolina/46914204
ORANGEBURG, S.C. —The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control is investigating an unlicensed facility.(Video above: Evening headlines from WYFF News 4)Officials say on Thursday, DHEC, along with other state and local agencies, began an investigation on three alleged unlicensed community residential care facilities in Orangeburg.According to officials, DHEC staff cited one facility for operating without a license, which is a violation of state s...
ORANGEBURG, S.C. —
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control is investigating an unlicensed facility.
(Video above: Evening headlines from WYFF News 4)
Officials say on Thursday, DHEC, along with other state and local agencies, began an investigation on three alleged unlicensed community residential care facilities in Orangeburg.
According to officials, DHEC staff cited one facility for operating without a license, which is a violation of state statutes and regulations.
During the investigation, DHEC discovered that staff at the unlicensed facility were offering room and board and provided personal care for residents, officials say.
According to officials, investigators also found that residents were locked in rooms with no way of exiting without assistance. According to DHEC, that poses a risk in the event of a fire or medical emergency.
DHEC says authorities were able to place the residents of the unlicensed facility into emergency protective custody, and they have since been relocated to appropriate facilities to ensure their safety.
Based on the investigations of the other two facilities, DHEC staff did not find that they were being operated as community residential care facilities, according to officials.
DHEC says individuals living at those facilities were not receiving assistance with day-to-day living, so officials considered these facilities to be apartments.
Officials say the unlicensed facility submitted a plan of correction that was accepted by DHEC’s Bureau of Health Facilities Licensing.
“It is the responsibility of long-term care facilities to operate in compliance with all applicable state and federal laws, regulations and permits,” said DHEC’s Director of Health Care Quality, Gwen Thompson. “Our ultimate goal is for all of our state’s long-term care facilities to operate in accordance with these laws and regulations, which exist to establish safe standards for protecting the health of the residents they care for, as well as their staff. If a facility creates a dangerous living condition, we will take immediate and decisive action to protect residents, who are always our top priority.”
99-year-old among five victims discovered in 'deplorable conditions'
Kimberlei Davishttps://abcnews4.com/news/crime-news/saint-george-woman-faces-charges-for-neglect-financial-exploitation-of-adults-shaneima-montgomery-orangeburg-christmas-eve-vulnerable-barbershop-neglect-financial-exploitation
“I am deeply disturbed by the deplorable conditions in which we found the victims involved in these heinous crimes against humanity,” said Orangeburg Department of Public Safety Chief Charles Austin, Sr. “I commend Sergeant Deloris Edmunds and the team that worked with her to investigate and uncover the atrocities that were committed against some of our vulnerable citizens whose families entrusted the personal care of their loved ones to the suspects and their trust was betrayed.”ORANGEBURG CO...
“I am deeply disturbed by the deplorable conditions in which we found the victims involved in these heinous crimes against humanity,” said Orangeburg Department of Public Safety Chief Charles Austin, Sr. “I commend Sergeant Deloris Edmunds and the team that worked with her to investigate and uncover the atrocities that were committed against some of our vulnerable citizens whose families entrusted the personal care of their loved ones to the suspects and their trust was betrayed.”
ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. (WACH) — Investigators with the Orangeburg Department of Public Safety (ODPS) say five vulnerable adults ranging in age from 52 to 99 were in imminent danger when they were found in heavily soiled undergarments in the back of a Broughton Street barbershop.
During the December 27 investigation, officials say they were told that a man inside a closet room area ate himself to death and passed away on Christmas Eve, according to the incident report.
ODPS officials say bond was set a $30,000 for 40-year-old Shaneima Montgomery of Saint George on January 5 in connection to the crimes.
The Lemon Drive woman was arrested on January 4 and is charged with five counts of neglect and financial exploitation of a vulnerable adult.
Montgomery was allegedly receiving varying payment amounts for the victims' care at the Broughton Street and a location on Lovell Street.
According to an incident report, Montgomery is the owner of Blue Ink Sign Inc (487 Broughton Street) and is registered with the South Carolina Secretary of State as a nonprofit.
The use of the business is listed as administrative management and general management consulting services.
ODPS investigators were conducting a follow up from December 19 when they say the victims were found.
At the time of the initial visit, investigators say they saw a customer get a haircut and a Business and Professional License to Jerry's Professional Barber (967 Russell St., 29115) on the wall.
According to the incident report the victims were identified as a 99-year-old Black female, a 52-year-old Black female, an 80-year-old white male, 63-year-old white male, 73-year-old white male.
The door of one of the victims was locked from the outside preventing them to leave the room and a box of used needles were found on the floor of another victim.
The incident reports also states:
These are just some of the reasons this building is deemed unsafe for the vulnerable adults; however, there are many more, the incident report states.
All the victims were taken to MUSC Health Orangeburg for treatment.
The Orangeburg Department of Public Safety is still investigating the case.
1 dead in Orangeburg County motorcycle crash on I-95
https://www.wrdw.comhttps://www.wrdw.com/video/2024/05/01/1-dead-orangeburg-county-motorcycle-crash-i-95/
3 weather alerts in effectWRDW News 12 at 6 a.m. (recurring daily Sun to Sat)Updated: 11 minutes agoAM Dense Fog, Sct. Storms Today Thru The WeekendUp...
WRDW News 12 at 6 a.m. (recurring daily Sun to Sat)
Updated: 11 minutes ago
AM Dense Fog, Sct. Storms Today Thru The Weekend
Updated: 1 hour ago
This is a live recording of WRDW News 12 at 5 a.m. (recurring).
Riley's 11 PM Forecast - Isolated storms Friday, Rain likely this weekend
Foggy start early Friday. Showers and storms possible Friday through Monday.
Mikel's 530 PM Forecast - 5/2/24 - Rain Chances Return!
Updated: 11 hours ago
This is a live recording of WRDW News 12 at 5 p.m. (recurring).
A Hot One Today, Weekend Storms
Updated: 19 hours ago
Live recording of News 12 Midday
Sunny and Very Warm, Scattered Weekend Storms
Updated: May. 2, 2024 at 2:57 AM PDT
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Orangeburg man sentenced in violent assault of postal worker delivering mail to daycare
Mayra Parrilla Guerrerohttps://www.wistv.com/2024/05/01/orangeburg-man-sentenced-violent-assault-postal-worker-delivering-mail-daycare/
ORANGEBURG, S.C. (WIS) - An Orangeburg man was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison after assaulting a postal worker he had a prior relationship with.According to evidence presented in court, on March 20, 2023, the U.S. Postal Mail worker arrived at a daycare facility to deliver mail but tried escaping once Gregory Ellison, 42, arrived. Ellison then caught her and assaulted her inside a daycare facility where children and workers were present.Officials said Ellison pinned her against the mail truck, ripped out her earring, ...
ORANGEBURG, S.C. (WIS) - An Orangeburg man was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison after assaulting a postal worker he had a prior relationship with.
According to evidence presented in court, on March 20, 2023, the U.S. Postal Mail worker arrived at a daycare facility to deliver mail but tried escaping once Gregory Ellison, 42, arrived. Ellison then caught her and assaulted her inside a daycare facility where children and workers were present.
Officials said Ellison pinned her against the mail truck, ripped out her earring, and took her cell phone after the carrier convinced Ellison to talk outside.
The mail carrier then reportedly managed to distract Ellison, jump into her mail truck and drive away. However, Ellison then caught up to the truck, punched the carrier in the head and pulled her out of the moving vehicle by her hair causing her to land on dirt and concrete. The truck then rolled and crashed into a ditch.
Investigators discovered Ellison previously visited the carrier’s place of employment multiple times in the weeks leading up to the assault and sent her multiple messages on social media threatening to kill her with a firearm.
The South Carolina Department of Justice said Ellison, who has prior convictions for domestic violence in the third degree and harassment in the second degree, also sent messages to two other individuals asking for a firearm before the assault.
“While this incident stemmed from domestic violence, this sentencing clearly illustrates that individuals who endanger the safety and wellbeing of USPS workers will be held accountable for their actions,” said Tommy D. Coke, Inspector-in-Charge of the Atlanta Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office, and the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office.
Ellison was sentenced by United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon to 40 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision.
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Copyright 2024 WIS. All rights reserved.
Track Covid-19 in Orangeburg County, S.C.
New York Timeshttps://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/us/orangeburg-south-carolina-covid-cases.html
These Covid tracking pages are no longer being updated. Get the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control, or find archived data from The Times’s three year reporting effort here.Daily Covid-19 admissions in the Orangeburg County areaAbout the dataData is from the Centers for Disease Control and P...
These Covid tracking pages are no longer being updated. Get the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control, or find archived data from The Times’s three year reporting effort here.
Daily Covid-19 admissions in the Orangeburg County area
About the data
Data is from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hospitalization data is a daily average of Covid-19 patients in hospital service areas that intersect with Orangeburg County, an area which may be larger than Orangeburg County itself.
The number of daily hospital admissions shows how many patients were admitted to hospitals for Covid and is one of the most reliably reported indicators of Covid’s impact on a community.
Total population
Ages 65 and up
Total population
Ages 65 and up
An updated vaccine is recommended for adults and most children. Statewide, 7% of vaccinations did not specify a home county.
Nearby hospitals
Share of I.C.U. beds occupied
About this data Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Notes: The hospitals map shows the average I.C.U. occupancy at nearby hospitals in the most recent week with data reported. The data is self-reported to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services by individual hospitals. It excludes counts from hospitals operated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Indian Health Service. Numbers for hospitalized patients are based on inpatient beds and include I.C.U. beds. Hospitalized Covid-19 patients include both confirmed and suspected Covid-19 patients. The C.D.C. stopped reporting data on cases in May 2023.
How trends have changed in Orangeburg County
About this data Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Notes: Weekly county death data prior to Jan. 2021 was not reported by the C.D.C. and is sourced from reporting by The New York Times. Hospitalization data is a weekly average of Covid-19 patients in hospital service areas that intersect with Orangeburg County. Hospitalization numbers early in the pandemic are undercounts due to incomplete reporting by hospitals to the federal government.
Historical trends in Orangeburg County
The data in these charts has been archived and they are no longer being updated.
About this data Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The data in these charts has been archived and they are no longer being updated. Weekly county case data prior to Jan. 2021 was not reported by the C.D.C. and is sourced from reporting by The New York Times. The C.D.C. stopped reporting data on cases in May 2023. Test positivity data is based only on test results reported to the federal government and is a seven-day average.
By Jon Huang, Samuel Jacoby, Jasmine C. Lee, John-Michael Murphy, Charlie Smart and Albert Sun. Additional reporting by Sarah Cahalan, Lisa Waananen Jones, Amy Schoenfeld Walker and Josh Williams. See a full list of contributors to The Times’s Covid-19 data reporting here.
About the data
Data on this page is reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Population and demographic data is from the U.S. Census Bureau. Hospitalization data is reported by individual hospitals to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and it includes confirmed and suspected adult and pediatric patients. The C.D.C. does not provide complete vaccinations data for some counties and caps its vaccination rate figures at 95 percent.
The C.D.C. may make historical updates as more data is reported.
The C.D.C. stopped reporting data on Covid cases in May 2023.
Disclaimer:
