Charleston Criminal Defense Lawyer

Fighting Criminal Accusations in Charleston, Summerville & Throughout South Carolina

If you have been accused of a crime, get in touch with a our criminal defense lawyers in Charleston, SC right away. At Thurmond Kirchner & Timbes, P.A., our dedicated criminal defense attorneys in Charleston, SC, including Lead Counsel Paul Thurmond, have years of courtroom experience on both sides of the aisle. Our criminal lawyers are thorough, aggressive, and discreet. Each of our attorneys brings extensive experience practicing criminal defense in South Carolina.

We work hard to ensure your rights are protected throughout every step of your case. Schedule a free consultation with a Charleston criminal defense attorney by calling (843) 790-0083 or by contacting us online.

Types of Cases We Handle

At Thurmond Kirchner & Timbes, P.A., our criminal defense attorneys in Charleston provide aggressive and effective representation. We help clients accused of misdemeanors and felonies in state and federal courts.

Our South Carolina law firm takes on a range of criminal matters, including:

• Traffic Offenses: Violating traffic laws or engaging in any illegal conduct while operating a motor vehicle.
• Drug Crimes: Any illegal conduct involving controlled substances, including drug possession, drug manufacturing, and drug trafficking.
• White Collar Crimes: Financially motivated offenses taking place in corporate settings.
• Violent Crimes, including Assault & Battery: Offenses involving the use of violence or the threat of bodily harm to another person.
• DUI: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Juvenile Crimes: Crimes committed by individuals under 18.
• Domestic Violence: Abusive and/or violent acts committed by one member of a household against another.

Our criminal defense lawyers have handled numerous complex cases. Thus, we know how to effectively guide you through the charge you are facing. No matter the offense you’ve been accused of, our Charleston criminal attorneys will work hard toward a favorable result on your behalf.

What are the Common Criminal Penalties in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, criminal penalties can come in many forms. Common types of criminal penalties include fines, probation or parole, community service, imprisonment, and even the death penalty. Depending on the severity of the crime committed, any combination of these punishments may be imposed.

Fines are a common form of punishment for minor offenses. An offender must pay an agreed-upon amount to the court as a penalty for their crime. If they do not pay this fine, they may face additional criminal charges.

Probation or parole is another type of punishment in South Carolina that requires an offender to adhere to certain conditions set by the court, such as regularly reporting to a probation officer and undergoing drug tests. If these conditions are not met, the offender may face additional penalties or even criminal charges.

Community service is another form of punishment that requires an offender to complete certain tasks beneficial to the community such as helping with cleanup efforts or volunteering at a local charity organization in lieu of serving jail time.

Incarceration is perhaps the most serious type of criminal penalty and involves detaining an offender in either a county jail or state prison depending on the severity of their crime. The length of imprisonment can vary from one year up to life depending on the nature of the crime committed.

In extreme cases, death by lethal injection may be imposed as a form of criminal punishment in South Carolina. This is reserved for only the most severe offenses such as murder and is rarely imposed.

No matter what the crime, South Carolina criminal penalties can be severe and an offender may face serious consequences for their actions. It is important to understand the types of punishments available so that you know what to expect if convicted of a crime in this state.

What is a Defense Attorney?

A criminal defense attorney is a legal professional who specializes in defending individuals or organizations charged with criminal offenses. Their primary role is to protect the rights of their clients and ensure they receive a fair trial.

What Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Do?

The responsibilities of a criminal defense lawyer can vary depending on the nature and severity of the case, but generally, they perform the following tasks:

• Case Evaluation: The attorney assesses the details of the case, examines evidence, interviews witnesses, and reviews relevant laws to develop a strong defense strategy.

• Legal Advice: Defense attorneys provide their clients with legal guidance and advice, explaining the charges against them, their rights, and the potential consequences they may face. They help clients understand the legal process and make informed decisions.

• Investigation: Criminal lawyers conduct their investigations to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and identify any inconsistencies or weaknesses in the prosecution's case. They may collaborate with investigators or hire experts, such as forensic specialists or private detectives, to support their defense.

• Legal Representation: Attorneys represent their clients at various stages of the criminal justice process. They appear on their behalf during arraignments, bail hearings, pretrial conferences, and trial proceedings. Defense lawyers present arguments, cross-examine witnesses, and challenge the prosecution's evidence.

• Negotiation: Lawyers engage in plea bargaining with the prosecution to secure a favorable outcome for their clients. They may negotiate reduced charges, lesser penalties, or alternative sentencing options that best suit their clients' interests.

• Legal Advocacy: Attorneys zealously advocate for their clients' rights, ensuring that proper legal procedures are followed, and constitutional rights are protected. They challenge any violations of due process, search and seizure rights, or other constitutional issues.

• Courtroom Strategies: Defense attorneys develop effective courtroom strategies based on the unique circumstances of each case. They may employ tactics such as presenting an alibi, casting doubt on witness credibility, or arguing that the evidence was obtained unlawfully.

• Appeal: In some cases, the defense attorney may handle the appeals process if the client is convicted and wants to challenge the verdict or sentence.

Why You Need to Hire a Charleston Criminal Defense Attorney

A criminal defense lawyer’s ultimate goal is to seek the best possible result for you, whether it is through dismissal of the charges, deferment programs, resolution through victim restitution, or entering a plea to a lesser charge.

At Thurmond Kirchner & Timbes, P.A., we work closely with you to explain the charges and any collateral consequences that might arise. Our team of dedicated Charleston criminal defense lawyers will give you straight answers and a clear understanding of your options, allowing you to make informed decisions. We know how important it is to minimize public exposure and protect your reputation when resolving the charges against you.

As criminal defense attorneys in Charleston, we also believe it is important not only to help with the problem but also to address other issues or concerns that might have contributed to its cause to further mitigate the potential penalties.

If you’re being investigated or have been accused of a crime, contact our Charleston criminal defense lawyers now or call at (843) 790-0083.