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In the state of South Carolina, applying for a pardon can be a lengthy and difficult process, many elements of which can prove difficult to navigate. But overall, there are three main components that are necessary for completing a Pardon Application, including written letters of support, information from the applicant, and payment of the application...

Ever heard the urban legend about a man who was recently arrested on a warrant issued over a decades-old traffic violation? The story goes that for years, the man was unaware that law enforcement was looking for him. It wasn’t until the man was pulled over by police for a minor violation that he learned...

Of all the states, South Carolina has some of the harshest sentences in the country for cocaine charges. According to a recent analysis of sentencing laws and outcomes by USA Today, no other state sentenced more people for longer sentences over cocaine than South Carolina. In one year, South Carolina sentenced 143 people to prison...

If you were convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) in South Carolina, you may need to install an ignition interlock device in your car. This type of device — which is the size of a cellphone — is wired into your car's ignition. To start your car, you will need to blow...

Know your legal rights. The drinking age in South Carolina is 21. That sounds simple enough. However, the laws surrounding underage drinking can get much more complex, depending on the situation. To protect your rights, you need to understand what is and isn't illegal. You also need to know what the police are and aren't...

In South Carolina, you have the right to defend yourself from a violent attacker. There are certain rules that apply that don't grant the right to harm someone who poses a non-violent threat or when violent situations can be diffused. It's important that you understand what protections are available under South Carolina's Protection of Persons...

Any kind of traffic violation, even if committed unknowingly, can give a police officer reason to pull you over. If a police officer suspects that you have been drinking and driving, any evidence you give can be used against you in court, even if you didn't break any laws. South Carolina DUI defense attorney Matt...

If you were just arrested and charged with DUI, you may not be fully aware of your legal rights. A first time DUI charge can be harsh in South Carolina. You could face: 2-30 days in jail A $400 fine A 6-month license suspension Just because you were arrested and charged with DUI, that doesn't...

Criminal defense lawyer Matt Bodman reveals what you need to know Being charged and convicted of a criminal charge is a serious legal matter that can dramatically change your life. That’s why South Carolina’s recent efforts to focus on incarcerating people who have previously been convicted of a crime should matter to everyone who respects...