843-248-3177
843-248-3177Blog Posts - Criminal law
Is Boating under the Influence (BUI) Illegal in Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach is a beautiful spot for boating, and boating is a popular pastime throughout the area. While boating is a recreational activity, the person at the helm still owes an immense duty of care to everyone on the water. It is well understood that driving a vehicle under the...
Laws and Penalties for Driving under the Influence of Drugs
Driving under the influence of alcohol is not the only way to get in trouble behind the wheel. Similar laws apply when it comes to driving under the influence of a controlled substance, which includes illegal drugs as well as some prescription medications. If you are facing a driving under...
What to Do After Being Arrested in Conway, South Carolina
If you’ve been arrested in Conway, your natural inclination may be to panic, and you wouldn’t be alone. A far better approach, however, is to remember that you have necessary rights and invoke them from the start. Doing so can make a profound difference in the outcome of your case....
What are the Penalties for Public Intoxication?
South Carolina law defines public intoxication as being “grossly intoxicated” in public to the point of disturbing the peace. Law enforcement is cracking down on all types of disorderly conduct, and that includes public intoxication. While being “tipsy” will not necessarily result in a public intoxication charge, the same does...
Sex Offender Registry Removal Laws in Marion, SC
South Carolina requires those who are identified as sexual offenders or predators to be listed on the sex offender registry, except under particular circumstances, such as if you’ve been fully pardoned or the court has set aside your conviction. Recent changes in state laws, however, include expanded opportunities for removal...
Understanding the Open Carry Law in South Carolina
As of March 7, 2024, South Carolina now allows most adults to carry concealed firearms openly or concealed without a permit. But if you’ve been charged with a weapons violation, you already know how easy it is to land in legal trouble under this new law, especially if you misunderstood...
Felony DUI Laws and Consequences
A felony DUI charge in South Carolina is not just a more serious version of a standard DUI. It’s a life-altering criminal offense that can lead to years in prison, permanent license loss, and a lasting criminal record. At L. Morgan Martin, our seasoned DUI defense attorneys understand the immense...
Assault Charges in SC: What You Need to Know
The crime of assault can range from minor scuffles to brutal physical altercations. Even something as simple as threatening to hurt someone during a heated argument can result in you facing assault charges. Understanding how South Carolina law defines assault is vital if you’ve been accused of assaulting someone. At...
South Carolina’s Stand Your Ground Laws
South Carolina’s Stand Your Ground law allows you to legally use deadly force in self-defense without the duty to retreat. However, you must be in a place you’re legally allowed to be, and you reasonably believe you’re in danger. It also has very specific limitations and requirements, and you need...
Is Domestic Violence a Form of Self-Defense?
Domestic disputes can escalate quickly. One party may lash out in frustration, forcing the other party to defend themselves. The natural inclination to protect yourself from abuse often injures the attacker. If you use any force to stop the assault, police can also incorrectly identify you as the primary aggressor....
What are the Penalties for Drug Trafficking?
Drug trafficking offenses have some of the most complicated sentencing guidelines in South Carolina. Your sentence not only depends on the specific facts of your case, including aggravating and mitigating factors, but also on the type and amount of the seized substances. It can be challenging to determine whether you...
What if I Am Already Charged with Unlawful Carry?
Prior to March 7, 2024, you were required to obtain a permit to carry a concealed weapon in South Carolina, with open carry being strictly prohibited. However, new legislation that was signed into law by Governor McMaster this year allows permit less carry for most individuals of at least 21...
Can You Get a DUI on a Golf Cart?
Most of us think of driving under the influence as pertaining to operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, in South Carolina (and the majority of states), if you are driving a golf cart with an elevated alcohol level, you may be charged with...
Collateral Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction
South Carolina imposes harsh punishments for those who are facing allegations of domestic violence. Anyone who attempts or physically harms a household member, causing that individual to fear for their life, can be charged with domestic violence. In South Carolina, the base-level charge for domestic violence is a misdemeanor, punishable...
New DUI Laws
With over 13,000 fatalities caused by drunk driving, South Carolina takes a strict stance when it comes to operating a vehicle while intoxicated. While the state has always imposed harsh penalties for driving under the influence, recent legislation pertaining to ignition interlock devices and implied consent seeks to crack down...
New Bond Reform Statute in SC
The new Bond Reform statute in SC is designed specifically to ensure that accused repeat violent offenders are kept in jail while they wait for their trial and increase their risk of getting more prison time if they’re out on bond and get convicted. To find out how the new...
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