Irmo Criminal Lawyer

Irmo, SC Defense AttorneyNo one in Irmo wants to be a position where they feel the need to talk to a skilled criminal defense lawyer. However, if you are wondering whether you need an attorney to help with a particular issue, it is never a bad idea to ask for advice, and the sooner, the better.

Many times, people in Irmo are unaware of their rights and how to protect them. You can forfeit your rights and damage your case by making a statement or taking actions against your interests without even realizing it.

Assistance from a knowledgeable Irmo criminal lawyer could help you avoid mistakes and start laying the groundwork for the best possible defense. Most criminal defense lawyers offer a free consultation, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by contacting an attorney as soon as questions arise, even if no charges have been filed.

Consider All the Consequences

When people think of penalties for crimes, they consider only the potential for a fine and possible incarceration (i.e., jail) or probation. Often, however, the most damaging consequences of a criminal conviction can come from the lingering effects on someone’s record.

Because it is so easy to conduct a search online, records of convictions or even criminal charges show up in searches conducted by employers, banks, landlords, and even volunteer groups and social acquaintances. A conviction for a criminal offense could interfere with your life for years to come. However, an experienced Irmo criminal defense lawyer knows how to minimize your risk and can help protect your future.

Criminal Penalties

The South Carolina Code of Laws classifies criminal offenses into different categories and sets a range of penalties for each crime. Penalties usually consist of a term of imprisonment and a fine. In addition, those convicted may also be required to pay restitution in some cases and may face liability in civil court as well.

Some Crimes Have Specific Penalties

Serious felonies and misdemeanors are penalized outside the official classification scheme, and the statutes describing these offenses specify the penalties. For instance, S.C. Code §16-11-110 defines first-degree arson and stipulates that those convicted should be imprisoned for at least 30 years.

Penalties for Different Classes of Crimes

The range of potential penalties for most crimes is based on the classification of the crime. Misdemeanors are the less serious offenses, and they in turn are ranked from the least serious, Class C, to the most serious, Class A. Felonies include the more serious crimes with six subcategories ranked A through F. As with misdemeanors, Class A felonies are the most serious.

Maximum terms of imprisonment range from one year for a Class C misdemeanor to as much as 30 years and life imprisonment for a Class A felony. In addition, courts may also impose a fine. In some cases, the amount of the fine may be specified by the statute defining the crime while in other cases, the amount of the fine is left to the discretion of the court.

Consult with a Dedicated Irmo Criminal Defense Attorney Today

Experienced criminal defense attorneys know multiple strategies for defending clients and, where necessary, seeking the least onerous penalties. However, in order to be successful, it is helpful for an Irmo criminal lawyer to begin working on a case as soon as possible.

The best evidence is often only available shortly after the event giving rise to criminal charges. Moreover, prompt action and advice from an attorney can prevent missteps that could jeopardize a case. To learn how a dedicated criminal defense attorney could help in your situation, call for a consultation.