If you have been accused and charged with a crime you are in need of a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Seabrook Island, 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 Seabrook Island 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 Seabrook Island 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 Seabrook Island, 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 Seabrook Island, 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 Seabrook Island and explore every possible angle to have it dismissed.
To begin that process, your criminal defense lawyer in Seabrook Island, SC, may seek answers to many questions, including:
If you are dealing with drug-related crimes in Seabrook Island 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 Seabrook Island 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 Seabrook Island, SC, today to learn more about the complexities involved with drug cases in Seabrook Island 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 Seabrook Island, 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.
SEABROOK ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - Tidal flooding is pushing Seabrook Island officials to look at flood-focused measures, intended to ensure a safe and sustainable future for its growing community.The Lowcountry’s unique landscape of coastline and marshland makes it no stranger to flooding. Seabrook Island is a prime example, being surrounded on all sides by a body of water.While admired for its beauty, this can set the community up as a direct target for tidal flooding. On any given day, Seabrook Island Road could flood with...
SEABROOK ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - Tidal flooding is pushing Seabrook Island officials to look at flood-focused measures, intended to ensure a safe and sustainable future for its growing community.
The Lowcountry’s unique landscape of coastline and marshland makes it no stranger to flooding. Seabrook Island is a prime example, being surrounded on all sides by a body of water.
While admired for its beauty, this can set the community up as a direct target for tidal flooding. On any given day, Seabrook Island Road could flood with little to no warning. The two-lane road is the only way in or out of the gated community.
Town Administrator Joe Cronin said it is a common misconception to assume the flooding is caused by storm surges. On the contrary, the issue most often occurs on sunny days.
Seabrook Island does not have in-house public safety personnel. The town relies on assistance from the St. Johns Fire District and Charleston County Sheriff’s Office during special weather events.
Jane Cottingham, who has lived on Seabrook Island for nine years, went out and became stuck in floodwater in January 2024.
“My car was just almost underwater. Tons of straw got in my motor. I was told by someone, ‘Do not get on the road.’ And I said, I think it’s okay,” Cottingham said.
Cottingham said she saw how the flooding “put a strain” on the island and its people. Community members feel that supportive infrastructure is needed as the population sits on a steady growth pattern.
The island is home to around 2,000 permanent residents, along with a slew of visitors during tourism season. The flooding can also impact those who own homes on the island but do not live there.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced earlier this month that the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Program was ending. The program would have covered project costs for environmental programs across the country.
Cronin said the island had not yet applied for a grant, but they considered it to use for a project that would raise Seabrook Island Road. The town has roughly $3 million in the bank, but the complete project could be more costly depending on how the bids go.
“For a small community like ours, raising Seabrook Island Road, the cost of that project, is essentially about equal to one full year’s operating budget for the town. It’s disappointing to see funding opportunities like that go away,” Cronin said.
The town began discussions to address the tidal flooding issue five or six years ago, according to Cronin. Leaders are hopeful that after bidding and permitting, they can get the ball rolling on flood infrastructure in 2026.
Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.
SEABROOK ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - The Town of Seabrook Island is considering changes to how its terms are regulated for elected officials.Seabrook Island’s council is one of two Charleston County municipalities operating under a two-year, unstaggered term policy. The remaining 15 use a four-year, staggered term limit.Mayor Bruce Kleinman believes amending the rule to allow the four-year staggered option would help streamline the learning process for those entering office, create efficient decisions and align policy with othe...
SEABROOK ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - The Town of Seabrook Island is considering changes to how its terms are regulated for elected officials.
Seabrook Island’s council is one of two Charleston County municipalities operating under a two-year, unstaggered term policy. The remaining 15 use a four-year, staggered term limit.
Mayor Bruce Kleinman believes amending the rule to allow the four-year staggered option would help streamline the learning process for those entering office, create efficient decisions and align policy with other local governments.
“The town has always had two-year terms of office. Our experience as of being elected almost two years ago is that it is an ineffectual means for the council. It is too short, and the shortness of the terms makes it very difficult to get important things done. To get big things done. Under state law, towns like us have two choices,” Kleinman said.
A staggered election is when only some sectors of an elected body are up for reelection at a time. Successive, or unstaggered, would mean all terms end on a strict date.
The suggestion was added to a strategic priorities list in January and voted through a first reading in March. Strategic priorities are used to provide a vision for the future actions taken by the council and can include topics like short-term rentals, flooding, road infrastructure, beach management and comprehensive planning.
Jo Faris moved to Seabrook Island in August. Keeping a watchful eye on the town’s priority list, she believes this effort would create transparency among those involved in town business and the community impacted by its decision-making.
“This was number one on that list. I really wanted to recognize how quickly they implemented priorities they adopted. It would give the town more continuity. If every person is up for election every two years, you could have five new people, and no one would know what was going on. You need that continuity for the town to function smoothly,” Faris said.
The policy would not affect the term limits of those currently in office if it is adopted. Each council seat would still maintain its limit until December 31.
In the upcoming election, Kleinman explains that the mayor and two councilmembers would be elected for four years, and two councilmembers would be elected for two years. Then, it would switch to balance the new cycle.
The seats would be “self-operating” after the initial adjustment phase.
This line of council said it is also pushing transparency and communication among its strategic plans for the office, encouraging outreach through face-to-face meetings. Kleinman intends for community members to participate in town business before the night policies are adopted to avoid what may feel like a rushed decision.
Both Kleinman and Faris were the only two who spoke in a designated public hearing on Wednesday, with an attendance total of three.
“To have something this important go before a public hearing and have only one person show up to speak. I would really love to see my fellow Seabrook residents become more involved,” Faris said.
“Today was their best opportunity to express an opinion. That is what a public hearing is for. We are here wanting to hear from our constituents,” Kleinman said.
The term limit item will move to a second reading on April 22 at 2:30 p.m., among a list of other topics on the agenda.
Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.