Orangeburg County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal charges can make it seem like your life has been turned upside down. Misdemeanor and felony charges both carry potential jail sentences and fines. With felony offenses you may also risk certain constitutional rights, such as the right to own a gun, to vote, or to serve on a jury. A well-prepared legal defense with a skilled attorney at your side may potentially reduce or extinguish the penalties you face.

An experienced Orangeburg County criminal defense lawyer is ready to build a defense for you. Schedule a consultation today to start fighting back against the prosecutor’s charges.

Commonly Charged Crimes in South Carolina 

State law covers an incredible number of different crimes a defendant could potentially face. There are a few broad categories that encompass many of the commonly charged crimes within the state, including:

• Driving under the influence (DUI)
• Weapons offenses
• Fraud
• Sex crimes
• Drug crimes
• Violent offenses
• Theft offenses

These broad categories contain many more specific charges. If a defendant faces any criminal charge in the state, a qualified Orangeburg County criminal defense attorney is properly prepared to defend their case.

The Differences Between Types of Crimes

Under state law, there are different severity levels to the offenses a defendant may face. At the lower level are civil offenses such as traffic tickets that do not carry jail time. At a higher level are misdemeanors that carry the potential for fines and jail time. Even higher are felony level offenses that can result in high fines, lengthy prison sentences, and even the loss of constitutional rights.

Standard of Proof in Criminal Cases

In all criminal cases within the state, the prosecutor has the burden of proof in the case. This means that it is up to the prosecutor to prove that the defendant is guilty of the crime alleged. Every defendant starts with a presumption of innocence and cannot be convicted until sufficient proof is presented.

The burden of proof in a criminal case is “beyond a reasonable doubt.” This is a high standard for the prosecutor to meet. It requires that the evidence satisfy the jury’s reasonable doubts as to whether the defendant committed the alleged crime.

Although all defendants are supposed to be innocent until proven guilty, the practical effect of the justice system for unrepresented defendants is that they are made to seem guilty before it is ever proven in court. Although these legal protections exist, it often requires a knowledgeable attorney to ensure the defendant’s rights are protected. A competent criminal defense attorney in Orangeburg County can help protect these rights.

Presenting a Defense to the Charges

Every case is unique, but certain common defenses often apply. These defenses can make a major difference in the potential penalties a person faces, may even result in dismissal of the charges, or could lead to a not guilty finding by a jury.

• Filing a suppression motion to exclude evidence
• Showing mistaken identity
• Demonstrating reasonable doubt
• Challenging witnesses on cross-examination

Every defense should be uniquely created for the individual defendant. A defense based on the unique facts of the case is more likely to be successful.

Defend Your Case with the Help of an Orangeburg County Criminal Defense Attorney

Every criminal allegation deserves protection, from the lowest level civil offense to a major felony offense. The negative impacts of a criminal record, high fines, and prison time should never be taken lightly.

An experienced Orangeburg County criminal defense lawyer is prepared to take your case and defend your rights. Contact us today for help.