Summerville Criminal Defense Lawyer
Fierce Legal Advocates in South Carolina with Trial Experience
In 2020, over 7,899 arrests were reported by the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division. After an arrest, the future may seem uncertain and those accused of a crime may feel hopeless. While the criminal justice system exists to hold guilty parties responsible for their actions, it also exists to protect the rights of those accused.
At TMW Law, we understand that navigating the criminal justice system can be daunting. If you have been arrested and/or charged with a crime, our criminal defense attorney team is here to provide you with essential legal representation. From arrest to trial, those accused of a crime face numerous challenges and are extremely vulnerable to the system. Our criminal defense lawyers are fierce advocates for our clients and provide timely guidance backed by over 50 years of combined experience. Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, our defense attorneys can give you the support you need and the fierce defense you deserve.
Call our Summerville criminal defense attorneys at (843) 891-6100 or contact us online and entrust your case to a firm that cares about your best interests.
What To Expect After a Criminal Arrest
An arrest can take an emotional toll on you and your family. Many people facing criminal charges feel anxious and hopeless about the outcome, but it is important to understand that the outcome is often determined by the events leading up to and during an arrest.
Individuals are at their most vulnerable during and right after an arrest. During this phase of the criminal process, law enforcement and investigators have enough evidence to perform an arrest, but they most likely do not have enough evidence to convict. It is during this period that people are in danger of incriminating themselves. Investigators are required to inform individuals of their Miranda Rights.
These are rights granted to all citizens and include the right to legal representation and the right to remain silent. The right to remain silent exists specifically to help prevent self-incrimination, which can occur when a person reveals information that could prove their involvement in the crime. For example, if a person tries to say that they only drove the getaway car, they are implicating themselves as accomplices to a crime.
After an arrest, it is crucial that individuals accused of a crime contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Contacting an attorney after an arrest can prevent self-incrimination and build the foundation for a strong defense. Additionally, having legal counsel early in the process allows the defense team more time to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and ultimately strengthen the defense strategy. This early involvement can often make a significant difference in the outcome, highlighting the importance of immediate legal assistance.
What Happens After an Indictment in SC?
After an indictment in SC, the accused is summoned to appear in court. The courts will read the charges against them, and they can plead guilty or not guilty. If they plead guilty, the trial will end, and they will be sentenced according to their crime. It is during this phase that a thorough review of the indictment is crucial. An experienced criminal attorney will examine the charges for any discrepancies or weaknesses that can be leveraged in court. For those pleading not guilty, preparation for trial begins, where strategic defense plans are tailored to contest the charges.
