Attorney Joe Good has helped hundreds of people with criminal infractions, ranging in age from high school students to senior citizens. He has handled charges such as driving under the influence, driving with unlawful alcohol concentration, underage possession of alcohol, larceny, and drug charges, including possession with the intent to distribute.
If you have been falsely accused of committing a crime, it is crucial to remember that you are innocent until proven guilty. Attorney Joe Good can explain the law and how it affects your current legal situation.
Criminal Charges We Handle
Our experienced legal team has handled hundreds of cases covering a wide variety of charges. Some of the types of cases we represent include:
- DUI
- Drug Charges
- Traffic Violations
- Violent Crimes
- Theft
- Assault
- Homicide
- Expungement
- Juvenile Crimes
- Probation Violations
AS YOUR SOUTH CAROLINA DEFENSE ATTORNEY, WE PERFORM A VARIETY OF FUNCTIONS, SUCH AS:
- Reviewing evidence and case documents
- Gathering testimonials and evidence to bolster your defense
- Keeping you regularly informed about our progress
- Selecting and interviewing witnesses
We will identify the most effective strategy for your defense. Our criminal attorneys in the Mt. Pleasant and Charleston area are adept at scrutinizing law enforcement conduct. If we discover that the officer involved in your arrest or other aspects of your case acted improperly, it could result in a judge dismissing evidence or charges entirely.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in South Carolina
Penalties vary based on the nature and severity of the crime, as well as any prior convictions. Below are some common types of charges and their associated penalties:
DUI and Alcohol-Related Offenses
South Carolina imposes strict penalties for DUI and alcohol-related offenses, which can include fines, license suspension, and jail time. Penalties generally increase with subsequent offenses or if the offender's Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is especially high.
- First Offense DUI: Up to 90 days in jail, license suspension for six months, and fines.
- Multiple DUI Offenses: Higher fines, longer jail terms (up to 5 years for a third offense), and potential permanent license revocation.
- Underage DUI: Penalties can include license suspension and mandatory alcohol education courses.
Drug Charges
Drug charges in South Carolina range from possession to trafficking and may carry significant penalties, especially for controlled substances.
- Simple Possession: Misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and fines.
- Possession with Intent to Distribute: Felony charge with potential imprisonment from 2 to 15 years, depending on the substance and quantity.
- Drug Trafficking: Can result in prison terms ranging from 7 to 25 years, with longer sentences for larger amounts and repeat offenses.
Violent Crimes
Violent crimes in South Carolina, such as assault and homicide, carry serious penalties and are often classified as felonies.
- Assault: Depending on the degree, can result in jail time from 30 days to up to 10 years.
- Homicide: Charges such as manslaughter or murder may lead to lengthy prison sentences or even life in prison. Murder charges can carry a penalty of life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Theft and Property Crimes
Theft and property crimes vary widely in South Carolina and carry different penalties depending on the value of the property taken or damaged.
- Petit Larceny (property under $2,000): Misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail.
- Grand Larceny (property over $2,000): Felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
- Burglary: Sentences range from up to 15 years to life, depending on the degree of the offense.
Traffic Violations
South Carolina treats certain traffic violations as criminal offenses that can lead to fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
- Speeding Violations: Fines and potential points on the driver’s license.
- Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and fines.
- Habitual Traffic Offender: Multiple serious traffic offenses can lead to a 5-year license suspension.
Consequences Beyond Jail Time
In addition to jail time and fines, a criminal conviction in South Carolina can have far-reaching consequences, including:
- Loss of Driving Privileges: Many offenses can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.
- Impact on Employment: Criminal records may limit job opportunities, especially for offenses involving violence, theft, or drugs.
- Restrictions on Gun Ownership: Convictions, particularly for violent crimes and drug-related offenses, may result in restrictions on firearm possession.
- Loss of Voting Rights: Certain felony convictions may temporarily or permanently restrict your ability to vote.
How an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, but having an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side can make a significant difference in your case. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the legal process and work toward a favorable outcome by:
- Assessing your case and explaining potential outcomes
- Building a tailored defense strategy
- Challenging evidence and law enforcement conduct
- Negotiating favorable plea deals
- Keeping you informed throughout the process
- Representing you in court with skill and dedication
Contact Us Today If You Are Facing Charges
Facing criminal charges? Don't go at them alone. Contact Joe Good Law today for strategic and aggressive defense representation. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are here to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Schedule your consultation now to discuss your case and get the legal support you need!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’ve been charged with a crime?
If you’ve been charged with a crime, it’s essential to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. Criminal charges can carry serious consequences, and having an experienced attorney on your side can help protect your rights, review evidence, and guide you through the legal process.
What types of cases does Joe Good Law handle?
Joe Good Law represents clients in a wide range of criminal cases, including DUI (and underage DUI), drug charges, traffic violations, violent crimes, theft, assault, homicide, expungement, juvenile crimes, and probation violations.
What happens if there’s improper conduct by law enforcement in my case?
If law enforcement misconduct is identified in your case, such as an unlawful search or improper handling of evidence, this may impact the outcome. Our team will review all aspects of law enforcement conduct. If we find misconduct, we may be able to challenge the evidence or have charges reduced or dismissed.
Can Joe Good Law assist with juvenile criminal cases?
Yes, we represent juveniles facing criminal charges and understand the unique challenges of handling cases involving minors. Joe Good Law is committed to protecting the rights of young clients and helping them navigate the criminal justice system.
How does Joe Good Law build a criminal defense strategy?
Our defense approach includes reviewing all evidence, gathering testimonials, selecting and interviewing witnesses, and keeping clients informed every step of the way. We analyze the specifics of each case to identify the best defense strategy for achieving a positive outcome.
