South Carolina is considering reforming its life-without-parole laws, which could put it at the forefront of a nationwide effort to end the mass incarcerations that began with the 1980s' so-called "War on Drugs." While progress has been made in terms of reducing punishments for those facing shorter sentences, the fact remains that more than one-third...
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Changes to Federal Law May Affect South Carolina Drug Cases
U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made no secret of his passion for prosecuting drug cases. Under his authority, the U.S. Justice Department has focused more intently on federal drug offenses. Under the previous administration, many minor drug offenses were given low priority as prosecutors focused instead on a broader range of offenses. The departmental...
Read More »Marijuana Arrests Remain Serious Offense in South Carolina
Lawmakers in South Carolina and throughout the country continue to make changes to marijuana laws. ABC15 reports the South Carolina Compassionate Care Act continues to work its way through the state legislature. The South Carolina Compassionate Care Alliance contends the measure would allow specific patients with debilitating conditions access to marijuana for medical purposes. Evolving statutes...
Read More »South Carolina Criminal Defense Attorney Discusses White Collar Crime
White collar crime involves non-violent acts committed for financial gain by government or business professionals in a position of authority. Usually called fraud or embezzlement, these crimes also include insider trading, tax evasion, trade secret theft, and public corruption. Lawyers often call them “paper” cases due to the overwhelming amount of complex transactions involved. And, you could...
Read More »What to Do if a Family Member or Loved One is Arrested in South Carolina
If you, a family member, or a loved one has been arrested, it is important to consult with a criminal defense attorney immediately. The sooner a Columbia criminal defense attorney becomes involved in your case, the better he or she will be able to protect your constitutional rights. Understanding the arrest process, and knowing what...
Read More »Columbia DUI Enforcement Increased During the Holidays
The holiday season can be stressful. With decorations, parties, gifts, visitors, and meals, many Columbia residents may be tempted to relax by drinking. Unfortunately, this contributes to an increase in drunk drivers during the holiday season. South Carolina law enforcement agencies know this, and combat the trend with increased DUI enforcement during the holiday season....
Read More »How South Carolina Drivers Can Protect Their Legal Rights at DUI Checkpoints
Checkpoints for impaired driving are a common sight on the roads of South Carolina. Unfortunately, even this simple inspection can infringe upon a driver's constitutional rights against self-incrimination. Protections against search and seizure can also be violated during these brief stops. Learn more about what South Carolina drivers can do at DUI checkpoints to protect...
Read More »The Consequences of an Underage DUI in South Carolina
An arrest is a stressful event for an adult who understands and is prepared for the process. To an inexperienced teenager, however, it can be utterly traumatizing. The mental and practical consequences can last a long time, as teens are more likely than adults to inadvertently waive important constitutional rights than they do not know...
Read More »Consequences of a First Time Drug Possession Charge in South Carolina
For defendants in South Carolina, the sentencing provisions of drug possession laws may come as an unpleasant surprise. The penalties for drug possession can be severe - even for a first offense. Defendants need an experienced Columbia criminal defense attorney to protect their legal rights at all stages of criminal proceedings. South Carolina Sentencing for Drug...
Read More »The Consequences of a First Time DUI in South Carolina
It a lesson that many criminal defendants learn the hard way: even the first DUI offense can carry costly, time-consuming consequences which plague the defendant's life for years to come. Mandatory Sentencing for a DUI Conviction The South Carolina Code of Laws sets sentencing guidelines for defendants who are convicted of a DUI for the...
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