South Carolina
Criminal Defense Lawyer

Charged with felony or misdemeanor in South Carolina? Get in touch with South Carolina defense attorney Dayne Phillips for help today.

Our criminal defense legal team is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to help people in South Carolina. Our goal in every case is to make a difference in that person’s life. It is an amazing responsibility and rewarding experience. We defend the Constitution, and a person’s right to have their side of the story told. Some people are wrongfully accused, while others simply made a mistake and need help. The truth is that many defendants are either incorrectly or overcharged based on what really happened. We are ready to stand up against the Government and fight for those people. Simply put, no person should be accused of something they did not do or be defined by the worst thing they have ever done.. En Español

Peer Rated for Highest Level of Professional Excellence | 2019

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We Offer a Broad Range of Legal Services

Our criminal defense attorneys in South Carolina are responsive and aggressive while advocating for our clients. If you are facing criminal charges in South Carolina and you have any questions about criminal lawyers or charges, we are here to help.

DUI

Gun

Theft

Drug

Nursing License

Solicitation

Professional License

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Components of a South Carolina Criminal Trial

After selecting the jury, a South Carolina criminal trial begins with opening statements by each attorney, which generally outlines the evidence presented in the case and themes of their cases. The Prosecution goes first because the State always has the burden of proof.

The Prosecution then calls witnesses and examines them about the alleged incident, and the defense attorney has an opportunity to cross-examine these witnesses. After the prosecution concludes its case-in-chief, the South Carolina criminal defense attorney may then call witnesses, including the defendant, to the stand to testify.

The defendant has a right not to present any evidence and refuse to testify. However, if the defendant does testify, this testimony is extraordinarily important for several reasons. Particularly, when raising legal defenses to a criminal charge, such as an alibi, mistake of fact, lack of criminal intent, duress, or entrapment. If a defense witness testifies, the prosecutor may then cross-examine that witness.

A criminal trial concludes with the lawyers giving their closing arguments, and the judge instructing the jury on the law to apply when deciding the case. The jury will then deliberate and decide the outcome of the case by indicating on the verdict form either not guilty or guilty.

Things to Keep In Mind During Trial

There are several other things you should keep in mind during the trial, including:

Before the trial begins, assume that every person could potentially be a juror in the case. Therefore, it is important to keep comments in check and to treat everyone with courtesy.
Do not make gestures or react to testimony by other witnesses while seated or while on the witness stand. For example, do not become visibly upset if an opposing witness says something untrue or objectionable while on the witness stand.

It is best to try and remain as straight-faced as possible during the trial. A local defense attorney can help you prepare for all aspects of a criminal trial, including the all-important direct and cross-examination questions, and how to answer them. A South Carolina criminal lawyer could go over every aspect of your case to ensure you are prepared and protected through each step of the legal process.

We Defend All Criminal Cases, Appeals, Professional Licenses

Our law firm helps people accused of crimes navigate through the criminal justice system in South Carolina. We build a personalized strategic plan of defense in every case based on the specific facts and circumstances. You have too much to lose not to present the best defense available.

More importantly, we are always ready to take on the biggest and most difficult cases to aggressively fight for your freedom, livelihood, and reputation. From misdemeanors to felonies, DUI to murder, drug possession to trafficking, sexual exploitation to white-collar crime, we have the diverse background, knowledge, skills, and courtroom experience you need to act as a shield between you and the Government.

There are a significant number of things to prepare for when taking your case to trial. It is not limited direct examination or cross examination of witnesses. Although the jury is listening to both sides of the case, they are also watching your every movement in the courtroom. They are paying close attention to your body language, facial expressions, and gestures during a criminal trial.

We Help Good People Through Tough Times

If you are seeking our help, we know you are overwhelmed and stressed because of a criminal charge or wrongful conviction. We also know how much you can benefit from relying on a trusted advisor to help guide through this complex process by listening to your concerns, answering your questions, and explaining your options in a way that allows you to make the best decision for you and your family. If you hire us, you are more than just another case or file number. We take great pride in our prompt communication with clients, and our commitment to treat you with the respect and personal attention you deserve.

Importance of a South Carolina Criminal Lawyer

Hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer is the cornerstone of the defense team. In addition to building your defense, your lawyer could assist in conducting an independent investigation to challenge the Government’s evidence. This is done by finding potential witnesses, pointing out inconsistencies in the police reports, uncovering new evidence not found by the detective, discovering ulterior motives and credibility issues with the Government’s witnesses, and proving the police failed to adequately investigate the accusations.

Please feel free to contact our experienced South Carolina criminal lawyers at any time, day or night, via telephone or email, for a free initial consultation.

How Do I Find The Best Criminal Defense Lawyer In South Carolina?

This is a very commonly asked question when searching for a lawyer. Many people who are facing criminal charges want to know who is the “best criminal lawyer in South Carolina” or who is the “best criminal attorney in South Carolina”. The problem is that this is not the right question to ask, and it is a myth. Simply put, there is no objective measure for determining the “best criminal defense lawyer”. The more appropriate question is finding out who the right lawyer for you is based on the following reasons.

First, when looking for “the best lawyer in South Carolina” to handle your criminal case, you need to understand that the practice of law varies greatly across different practice areas. Real estate lawyers generally do not handle the same types of cases as attorneys who primarily focus on defending criminal defense cases. Also, lawyers who handle multiple practice areas also typically do not devote their full time and attention to criminal defense law and procedure.

Second, you should look at a lawyer’s training, experience, associations, awards, reputation in the community, past results, and reviews. It is absolutely critical for you to look for a lawyer who you feel is the “best criminal lawyer for you and your case and not based on an advertisement. In truth, the biggest part of this determination has to do with finding an attorney with whom you are comfortable with and feel you can trust to help you during this difficult time. The attorney-client relationship is like any other relationship; it is built on trust. You must trust that your lawyer has your back and is doing everything they can to achieve the best possible result.

Again, you can look at the reviews posted by former clients. You deserve an attorney who is professional and who will represent you effectively.

For these reasons, it is important to consult with an attorney about your concerns. You should look for an attorney who understands you, your case, and your goals. Every case is different, and the facts are unique to your situation. It is also important to note that individuals have different goals for their cases based on the type of case and realistic outcome desired. In short, you should look for an attorney who you believe is right for you and your case.

Feel free to contact an experienced South Carolina criminal lawyer at any time, via telephone or email, for a free initial consultation.

*Disclaimer: Any result the lawyer or law firm may achieve on behalf of one client in one matter does not necessarily indicate similar results can be obtained for other clients.