Probation Violation Small Firm. Big Practice.

Probation Violation Attorney in Charleston

Former Prosecutor & Judge Now Defending Charleston Clients

A probation violation warrant for arrest can trigger an arrest and put the remainder of your suspended sentence back on the table. If you’ve been accused of violating probation in South Carolina, the time to act is before the hearing date. Thurmond Kirchner & Timbes, P.A. represents clients facing these allegations in Charleston and the surrounding Lowcountry.

Founded in 2005 by Paul Thurmond, Jesse Kirchner, and Michael Timbes, we have built a criminal defense practice grounded in direct courtroom experience and straightforward client communication.

Why Paul Thurmond’s Background Matters for Your Case

Paul Thurmond leads our criminal defense practice with a perspective few attorneys can offer. He spent three years as a Charleston County Assistant Solicitor prosecuting criminal cases, then served a two-year term as a judge for the Municipal Court of Mount Pleasant. He has sat on both sides of the courtroom and on the bench.

That background shapes how we build a defense. We know how the state constructs its case, what carries weight with a circuit court judge, and where the prosecution’s account can be challenged. We also keep clients informed at every stage so you can make decisions with a clear picture of the risks and realistic outcomes.

Call us at (843) 790-0083 to schedule a free, confidential consultation about your probation matter. The sooner we can review the facts, the more options we can explore.

Technical Violations vs. New-Offense Violations in South Carolina

Not all probation violations are the same, and the type you’re facing shapes the defense strategy. South Carolina violations generally fall into one of two categories.

Technical Violations
These involve failing to meet a condition of probation without committing a new crime. Common examples include missing a scheduled appointment with your probation officer, failing a drug test, not completing required community service hours, or changing your address without notifying the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services.

New-Offense Violations
These arise when a person is arrested or charged with a new crime while on probation. The new charge doesn’t have to be related to the original case to trigger a violation. The allegation alone can be enough to set the revocation process in motion.

Understanding which category applies to your situation is the starting point for building a defense.

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Contact Thurmond Kirchner & Timbes, P.A. Today

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Opinions From Those Who Matter Most

"I cannot recommend them highly enough."
I had the pleasure of working with Thurmond Kirchner & Timbes, P.A. and I cannot recommend them enough. From the moment I walked into their office, their professionalism and expertise were evident. Every attorney and staff member I interacted with was knowledgeable and genuinely dedicated to achieving the best outcome. Their meticulous attention to detail and strategic approach set them apart.

- James S.
"I can't thank them enough for being by my side."
The TKT lawyers and paralegals are top-notch when it comes to legal representation. They are thorough, professional, and do not stop until the obtain the best outcome for your situation. They always ensure you understand what is going on and never leave you in the dark. The team is understanding and makes sure you never face the legal system alone. I can't thank them enough for being by my side.

- Timothy C.
"The firm has your back 100% of the time."
Thurmond Kirchner & Timbes, P.A. has helped with all of our legal issues. You are always in expert hands and the firm has your back 100% of the time. Highly recommend their expertise for any legal needs.

- Maria J.
"Qualified Attorney With High Character and Integrity"
Chris Romeo (and his team) exceeded my expectations when handling an auto accident case for me.

- J.W.
"Masterful Results"
No one thinks of litigation as fun, however, in my own complicated case, I can tell you Jesse Kirchner not only made it "fun" but actually, interesting.

- L.H.
"They Work Hard & Get The Job Done For You!"
We are very pleased with Christopher Romeo and his Paralegal April Warford. They work hard to get the job done for you.

- A.E.
"I Was Never Once Judged"
Mr. Thurman and his staff were very professional and efficient. They worked hard to get my case dismissed.

- C.P.

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What Happens After a Probation Violation Warrant

When a probation agent believes a condition has been violated, a warrant for arrest may be issued. After the arrest, you have the right to a bond hearing, with the amount set by a magistrate in the county where you were arrested.

Because probation in South Carolina is granted through the Court of General Sessions, a revocation hearing is held before a circuit court judge in that same court. Charleston County’s General Sessions courtrooms handle these matters alongside other felony proceedings. At the hearing, you can admit or deny the alleged violation. The judge decides the matter using a preponderance of the evidence standard, meaning the state only needs to show that a violation more likely occurred than not. That’s a lower bar than the beyond-a-reasonable-doubt standard used at a criminal trial.

Possible Outcomes at a Probation Revocation Hearing

If the judge finds that a violation occurred, South Carolina law gives significant discretion over what comes next. The judge may:

Continue probation without changes
Extend or modify the terms of probation
Partially revoke the sentence while keeping probation in place
Fully revoke probation and impose the remainder of the original sentence
Terminate probation

One statutory limit applies regardless of the outcome: probation in South Carolina can’t exceed five years, whether originally imposed or later extended.

How We Approach Probation Violation Defense

The right strategy depends on the facts. When the alleged violation is disputed, we can present evidence and witness testimony at the hearing to challenge the probation officer’s account. Courts tend to treat probation officer testimony as reliable absent strong contrary evidence, which is why preparation before the hearing date matters.

When a violation isn’t in dispute, the focus shifts to mitigation. Presenting proof of stable employment, completed treatment programs, or character letters from community members can give a judge meaningful reasons to avoid full revocation. We develop an individualized strategy for each client rather than applying the same approach to every matter, and we explain the process, the risks, and the realistic range of outcomes so you can decide how to proceed with full information.

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Why Choose us?

Knowledge. Experience. Results.

12 Attorneys on Staff

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We Educate Our Clients on the Legal Process With Its Inherent Risks & Rewards
Our Firm Develops a Unique Strategy for Each Case
We Are Boutique Firm With Large Firm Experience & Reputation
Each Client Receives Transparent Communication & Personalized Attention
Your Initial Consultation Is Free & Confidential

Serving Charleston & the Surrounding Communities

We represent clients facing probation violation matters throughout the Charleston area, including Goose Creek, Mount Pleasant, North Charleston, and Summerville. If you’re facing a violation allegation anywhere in the region, we can help you understand your options and prepare a defense.

Speak with a Probation Violation Lawyer Today

Contact Thurmond Kirchner & Timbes, P.A. for a free, confidential consultation before a hearing date is set. We’re available by phone or through our online contact form. Call (843) 790-0083 to speak with a probation violation attorney at Thurmond Kirchner & Timbes, P.A. and get clear answers about where your case stands.

Probation Violation vs. Parole Violation in South Carolina

Probation and parole are often confused, but they follow entirely different tracks in South Carolina. Probation is imposed by a circuit court judge at sentencing as an alternative to incarceration. A probation violation is handled by that same court, and the judge decides the matter at a revocation hearing.

Parole is different. It’s a conditional early release granted by the South Carolina Board of Paroles and Pardons after a person has already served part of a prison sentence. A parole violation goes through the Board rather than the sentencing court, and if the violation is found, the person typically returns to serve the remainder of the original sentence.

Both probationers and parolees are supervised by agents of the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services, but the decision-making body and the consequences differ. This page addresses probation violations specifically. If you’re dealing with a parole matter, contact us and we can discuss how we may be able to help.

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