Charleston Violent Crimes Lawyers

Our Team Handles Serious Charges in Charleston, Summerville, and the Surrounding Areas

Violent crimes are either considered serious or the most serious in South Carolina. The South Carolina Code of Laws (16-1-60) defines dozens of offenses that fall under this category. Many of them result in serious injury (whether mental or physical) to another. In severe cases, the commission of a violent crime can result in someone else's death. Because such acts can cause substantial, and sometimes irreparable, harm to others, law enforcement agencies and prosecutors pursue them. If the State proves beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the alleged crime, a court can sentence the defendant to many years or even life in prison. Additionally, the court can impose hefty fines.

A violent crime accusation and conviction can have long-term ramifications. To try to avoid or minimize the potential penalties, you must fight your charge. At Thurmond Kirchner & Timbes, P.A., our Summerville & Charleston violent crime lawyers are ready to assist if you have been charged with any type of violent crime. We will work hard to protect your rights and attack the allegations made against you. We know what it takes to get results. We are ready to invest the time and resources into your case and seek an optimal outcome on your behalf.

To learn how our Charleston violent crimes attorneys can help, contact us at (843) 790-0083 today.

What Is Considered a Violent Crime in South Carolina?

South Carolina law specifically lists offenses that qualify as violent crimes.

Below are just a few of those deemed violent crimes:

Offenses Against the Person

• Murder
• First- and second-degree criminal sexual conduct
• Kidnapping
• Trafficking in persons
• Carjacking

Offenses Against Property

• Armed robbery
• First-degree arson
• First- and second-degree burglary

Domestic Violence Offenses

• Domestic violence of a high and aggravated nature
• First-degree domestic violence

Controlled Substances Offenses

• Trafficking in marijuana
• Manufacturing or trafficking methamphetamine

Offenses Against Morality and Decency

• First-degree sexual exploitation of a minor
• Promoting prostitution of a minor

Offenses Against Public Policy

• Aggravated voyeurism

Motor Vehicle Offenses

• Hit and run resulting in death
• Driving under the influence resulting in death

Whether the offense you've been charged with is specified above or another enumerated in the statutes, our Charleston violent crimes lawyers can defend you. We know that a criminal accusation does not mean you are guilty. That is why we will thoroughly evaluate your situation to determine what defenses may be available.

Are Violent Crimes Felonies in South Carolina?

Violent crimes are felonies. Felony offenses are considered more serious than misdemeanors. As such, a felony conviction will result in a longer term of incarceration and a higher fine. For instance, a Class A misdemeanor, which is the highest misdemeanor classification, is punishable by no more than 3 years' imprisonment. In contrast, the lowest classification of felony, Class F, can result in a prison sentence of up to 5 years.

At Thurmond Kirchner & Timbes, P.A., our Charleston violent crimes attorneys know what's at stake in these cases. A prison term of any length can negatively impact a person's personal and professional relationships, and the stigma of a conviction can follow them around for years. In many circumstances a conviction can never be expunged from a criminal record. We take violent crime charges seriously. When you turn to us, you can expect to be treated with professionalism and respect by an attorney who cares about you and your case. We proudly help the people of Charleston, Summerville, and the surrounding communities, and we are prepared to assist you.

What Are the Penalties for Violent Crimes in South Carolina?

Each of the statutes for violent crimes enumerates different types of conduct considered an offense. For instance, some offenses can result in serious injury to another; others, death. Some violations might involve the use of a weapon. Victims can be strangers, spouses, minors, or elderly individuals. Because the acts and persons involved in violent crimes vary, so too do the possible penalties that may be imposed.

Some examples of violent crimes punishments include:

• Murder: 30 years to life in prison
• First- or second-degree criminal sexual conduct: Up to 30 years in prison
• Kidnapping: Up to 30 years in prison
• Armed robbery: Between 10 and 30 years in prison

• First-degree arson: A minimum of 30 years in prison
• First-degree burglary: Up to life imprisonment
• Trafficking in marijuana: Between 1 and 10 years in prison
• Promoting prostitution of a minor: Between 3 and 20 years in prison
• Hit and run resulting in death: Between 1 and 25 years in prison

Reach Out for Legal Assistance

At Thurmond Kirchner & Timbes, P.A., we’re here to work with people who need help with their criminal matters. No matter how complex your case might be, you can be confident that we will do everything in our legal power to help you. Our violent crimes lawyers serve Charleston, Summerville, and beyond. We are ready to listen to your side of the story.

Our team will work relentlessly throughout your case. Call us at (843) 790-0083 or contact us online today.