Greenville, SC Misdemeanor Lawyers

Experienced Misdemeanor Defense Attorneys in Greenville, SC

Have you been accused of a misdemeanor offense in Greenville, South Carolina? Misdemeanor charges may seem minor, but they can have a significant impact on your life.

A misdemeanor conviction can result in fines, community service, probation, and even jail time. Additionally, a misdemeanor conviction can affect your employment, housing, and educational opportunities.

Therefore, hire a knowledgeable and experienced defense attorney to protect your rights and advocate for your best interests.

Our team of skilled Greenville, SC misdemeanor lawyers at Fedalei & Reid Law, LLC has extensive experience in defending clients facing a wide range of misdemeanor charges.

We understand that every case is unique and requires a personalized approach to achieve the best possible outcome. We are committed to providing our clients with individualized attention, keeping them informed throughout the legal process, and working tirelessly to protect their rights.

If you or a loved one is facing misdemeanor charges in Greenville or anywhere in South Carolina, we are here to help. Don't hesitate to contact us at (864) 668-1661 to request a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Se Habla Español!

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Why You Need a Greenville Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer

The sooner you get a Greenville misdemeanor defense attorney involved in your case, the better. Your attorney can prevent evidence from being lost or mishandled, protect your rights, and help you obtain the best possible outcome for your case.

Here are some key reasons why having an attorney represent you for a misdemeanor crime is important:

• Avoid jail time: Many misdemeanors carry potential jail sentences if convicted. A skilled lawyer will work to get the charges reduced or dropped so you can avoid incarceration.
• Minimize penalties: In addition to jail, misdemeanors often result in fines, probation, community service, and other penalties that can disrupt your life. Your attorney will strive to minimize these consequences.
• Protect your record: A misdemeanor conviction goes on your permanent criminal record which can hurt employment, housing, and educational opportunities. A lawyer may be able to get you into a diversion program or secure a deferred adjudication to keep the charge off your record.
• Navigate the system: The criminal justice system is complex. An experienced Greenville misdemeanor lawyer will be very familiar with the local courts, judges, and prosecutors and can guide you through the process.
• Build your defense: Did the police follow proper procedures during your arrest? Were your rights violated? Is the evidence against you weak? Your attorney will analyze every aspect of your case to build the most effective defense strategy.

Overall, criminal defendants represented by lawyers achieve far more favorable outcomes than those who represent themselves.

Don't take unnecessary risks with your future.

If you face misdemeanor charges in Greenville, consult our reputable Greenville, SC criminal defense attorneys as soon as possible to discuss your case and start building your defense. Investing in your legal representation is always money well spent.

What Are the Classifications of Misdemeanors in SC?

In South Carolina, misdemeanors are classified into three categories based on the maximum term of imprisonment:

Class A Misdemeanors

• Maximum sentence of up to 3 years in jail
• Examples: First offense domestic violence, second offense driving under the influence (DUI), and possession of less than one gram of methamphetamine or cocaine

Class B Misdemeanors

• Maximum sentence of up to 2 years in jail
• Examples: First offense DUI, possession of less than one ounce of marijuana, and simple assault and battery

Class C Misdemeanors

• Maximum sentence of up to 1 year in jail
• Examples: Public disorderly conduct, shoplifting (first offense), and driving under suspension (first offense)

In addition to jail time, misdemeanor convictions in South Carolina may also result in fines, probation, community service, and other penalties depending on the specific offense and the circumstances of the case.

Some offenses, such as DUI and domestic violence, have enhanced penalties for subsequent convictions, which may elevate the offense to a higher misdemeanor class or even a felony.

What Types of Misdemeanor Crimes Do You Handle?

The attorneys at Fedalei & Reid Law, LLC handle all types of misdemeanor crimes, including:

• Simple assault
• Domestic violence
• Petty theft
• Shoplifting
• Drug possession
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• DUI
• Driving with a suspended license
• Reckless driving
• Public intoxication
• Disturbing the peace
• Trespassing
• Vandalism
• Resisting arrest
• Prostitution
• Stalking or harassment
• Violation of restraining order

Unlike felonies, misdemeanors are usually tried in lower-level courts, such as municipal courts, rather than in state or federal courts.

No matter the misdemeanor charge you face, you need the guidance of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you understand your rights and options. An attorney can assist you in navigating the legal system, negotiating with prosecutors, and advocating on your behalf in court to protect your rights and interests.

What Should I Do If I've Been Arrested for a Misdemeanor in Greenville, SC

If police arrested you for a misdemeanor:

• Remain silent: Exercise your right to remain silent and avoid discussing your case with anyone except your attorney. Anything you say can be used against you in court.
• Hire an attorney: Seek the assistance of a criminal defense attorney who has experience handling misdemeanor cases. 
• Attend all court hearings: Make sure to attend all scheduled court appearances, as failing to do so may result in additional charges or a bench warrant for your arrest.
• Plead not guilty at your arraignment: At your arraignment, plead not guilty to the charges against you. This will give your attorney time to review the evidence and negotiate with the prosecutor on your behalf.
• Be honest with your attorney: Be honest and forthcoming with your attorney about the circumstances surrounding your arrest. This information will help them build the best possible defense for your case.
• Consider plea bargains: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor, which could result in reduced charges or a lighter sentence in exchange for a guilty plea.
• Prepare for trial: If your case goes to trial, work closely with your attorney to prepare your defense, gather evidence, and identify witnesses who may testify on your behalf.
• Follow court orders: If you are convicted or accept a plea bargain, make sure to adhere to any court orders, such as paying fines, completing community service, or attending counseling or rehabilitation programs.

Remember, while a misdemeanor is less serious than a felony, it can still carry significant consequences. You must take the matter seriously and work with an experienced attorney to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

What Should I Look for in a Greenville Criminal Defense Attorney?

When choosing a South Carolina criminal defense lawyer to represent you, consider these important factors:

• Look for an attorney with extensive experience handling criminal cases similar to yours in South Carolina courts. Familiarity with local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures can be invaluable.
  
  The criminal defense lawyers at Fedalei & Reid Law, LLC have nearly 20 years of combined criminal law experience, and we have in-depth knowledge of the local legal system in Greenville, SC.
  
• Choose a lawyer who handles criminal defense exclusively or devotes the majority of their practice to criminal defense. Criminal law is complex, and you want an attorney who focuses on this area rather than a general practitioner who handles a variety of legal practice areas.
  
  Our lawyers focus primarily on criminal defense, and we’ve achieved an impressive track record of securing successful results for our clients.
  
• Research the lawyer's reputation within the legal community and among former clients. Look for online reviews, testimonials, and peer ratings on legal directories like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell.
  
  Our attorneys have received national recognition from prominent legal organizations like the National Trial Lawyers. We’ve also received dozens of top reviews from our past clients.
  
• Select a lawyer who communicates clearly, promptly, and regularly. They should be accessible and willing to explain legal concepts and strategies in terms you can understand.
  
  At Fedalei & Reid Law, LLC, we prioritize open communication with our clients and will keep you updated and informed throughout the process. We will also respond promptly to your questions and concerns as they arise.
  
• Consider whether the lawyer has the resources to handle your case effectively, such as access to expert witnesses, private investigators, and support staff.
  
  Our lawyers have extensive resources at our disposal to thoroughly investigate your case and mount a strong defense on your behalf.
  
• Choose an attorney with whom you feel comfortable sharing sensitive information and who you believe will be a strong advocate on your behalf.
  
  The attorneys at our firm value confidentiality, and our client-centered approach means that we’ll place your needs and goals at the forefront of our efforts when developing a strong defense strategy.
  

We pride ourselves on accessibility and compassion, and you can rely on us to be there for you when you need us. We are also fully committed to fighting hard for you to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions About Misdemeanor Charges in SC

Will I go to jail for a misdemeanor in SC?

Not necessarily. Whether you will go to jail for a misdemeanor in South Carolina depends on several factors, such as the specific offense, prior criminal convictions, and the discretion of the judge hearing your case. 

South Carolina has sentencing guidelines that judges use as a reference when determining an appropriate sentence for a given offense. While jail time may be a possibility, many first-time offenders receive alternative sentences, such as probation or community service.

The best way to help ensure you avoid jail is to work closely with an experienced misdemeanor attorney from the start.

Will a misdemeanor conviction appear on my criminal record in South Carolina? 

Yes, a misdemeanor conviction will appear on your criminal record in South Carolina. This can have various consequences, such as difficulty finding employment or housing, loss of certain rights (e.g., owning a firearm), and immigration issues for non-citizens.

Can a misdemeanor charge be expunged in South Carolina? 

In some cases, a misdemeanor charge may be eligible for expungement in South Carolina. Eligibility depends on factors such as the specific offense, the individual's age at the time of the offense, and the amount of time passed since the conviction.

Consult a criminal defense attorney to determine if your misdemeanor charge qualifies for expungement.

Contact a Greenville, SC Misdemeanor Attorney Right Away

Dealing with a misdemeanor charge in Greenville, SC can be challenging and stressful. Don’t try to navigate the legal process yourself. Our team of criminal defense attorneys at Fedalei & Reid Law, LLC are here to help.

Contact us today at (864) 668-1661 to learn more about how our Greenville misdemeanor defense lawyers can help with your case.