Like many people, you planned and saved to enjoy a vacation at Myrtle Beach.
As one among the 19 million annual vacationers, you know the plethora of fun available. If that fun turns into a bar fight, you may face charges no matter where you come from.
1. How does a bar fight equate to a criminal charge?
Alcohol impairs your decision-making. If a situation arises that boils your blood, stupid choices may get made. From throwing a punch to throwing a drink, any confrontation that turns physical may lead to an arrest and charges filed. Even if the situation does not lead to physical acts, you may still face disorderly conduct charges and expensive fines.
2. What types of charges does South Carolina law have?
When arrested after a fight, you may have a range of charges from a misdemeanor to a felony. Oftentimes, bar brawls that involve no weapons result in the minimum charge of third-degree assault and battery, or simple assault. A person has the option to press charges for pulling hair, shoving, slapping, spitting and other similar aggressive acts. As the severity of the injuries increase, so does the degree of assault. A first-degree offense ups the crime to a felony.
3. What consequences might I face?
Any assault conviction comes with consequences. A simple assault may result in a $500 fine and a one-month jail sentence. If charged with a second-degree offense, it comes with a potential $2,500 fine and a three-year sentence. A felony assault may have you facing up to 10 years in prison.
Avoiding a bar fight should always remain a priority, especially while on vacation. If an unexpected event arises, knowing the consequence may prepare you for the road ahead.