If you have been accused and charged with a crime you are in need of a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Columbia, SC. Having a skilled and dedicated criminal defense lawyer on your side is key in order to protect your freedoms and to ensure that a proper legal defense is built to shield you. Dealing with legal charges in Columbia can be a highly distressing ordeal with even minor violations causing considerable impact on an individual's personal and work life. The repercussions of having a criminal record can be severe, leading to loss of employment, severed relationships and alienation from loved ones.
At Theos Law Firm we offer trustworthy legal representation to those who need it most. Our criminal defense team has over 50 years of combined experience and is committed to ensuring our clients maintain their freedom and move forward with their lives. From handling drug-related charges to more nuanced federal cases, sexual misconduct offenses and murder cases, we take a personalized approach to every case. By utilizing cutting-edge legal strategies and decades of combined experience, we provide the best opportunity to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients.
We help clients overcome criminal charges in a wide range of cases, including the following:
If you are facing one or more of the charges above, it's imperative that you establish contact with a legal advocate ASAP. At Theos Law, you can rest easy knowing our phone line is always open. When your future is up for grabs, let our team of criminal defense lawyers fight for your rights. It all starts with a free consultation at our law firm in Columbia where we will educate you on the particulars of the charges you're facing and explain the next steps in our representation.
At this point, you probably have many questions in mind. Keep reading for more information on criminal law in South Carolina and some of our criminal defense specialties at Theos Law.
In South Carolina, criminal cases are classified into different categories based on the severity of the crime. Generally speaking, offenses that carry a maximum penalty of less than one year are considered misdemeanors. On the other hand, crimes that carry a punishment of more than one year in prison are generally classified as felonies.
Crimes in The Palmetto State are usually split into three categories: (1) Magistrate or Municipal Level Offenses; (2) General Sessions or Circuit Court State Charges; and, (3) Federal Crimes. Classifications are based on which prosecuting body has jurisdiction to prosecute a particular charge or offense. Regardless of which court your criminal charge is in, the Theos Law Firm has decades of experience protecting individuals from prosecution and assuring that the best possible outcome is achieved.
Understanding the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony crime can be challenging for someone facing their first charge. Misdemeanors are generally considered minor offenses, and can result in punishment by incarceration up to one year.
Conversely, felonies are more severe crimes which are punishable by incarceration of more than one year. Those charged with a felony may face significant fines and a prison sentences of over a year in a federal or state institution. Convicted felons may face difficulties after their release such as losing the right to vote and the right to carry a firearm. These penalties make it crucial to have a reliable criminal defense attorney in Columbia, SC.
It is not uncommon for legal cases to be resolved without a trial through a plea deal. In order to assure that the best possible plea deal become available it is crucial for your legal defense to properly build your defense and prepare your case for trial. Deciding to represent yourself or not hiring the best legal team will likely result in exposure to unnecessary penalties, fines and jail time.
At Theos Law Firm, we often receive questions from potential clients about when they should hire a criminal defense attorney for the charges that they're facing. Although each situation and client are unique, there are some common criminal situations to keep in mind. In general, it's always best to reach out to an experienced attorney as soon as you're charged or have been arrested.
Below are some guidelines to help you decide when it's necessary to retain a criminal defense attorney for your case in South Carolina.
Thinking about hiring a criminal defense lawyer when you're charged with a crime is a no-brainer for most, and for good reason. Our team of experience criminal defense attorneys can offer assistance with various offenses, ranging from minor crimes to more serious ones such as sexual assault and manslaughter. Regardless of the charges, navigating the legal system can be complex, and without the guidance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer, the situation can escalate rapidly. It is critical that you engage an experienced attorney as soon as possible!
As you may have observed in movies or television shows, the police might request you to provide a statement, giving the impression that you are not under arrest. Remember, it is within your rights to have a criminal defense attorney in Columbia, SC, present during questioning, and you should absolutely use that to your advantage. If possible, consult with an attorney before answering any questions or participating in any discussions with law enforcement.
In the event that law enforcement officers arrive at your residence with a warrant, it indicates that a judge has determined there is reasonable suspicion that evidence related to a criminal offense is present in your home. Regardless of whether they discover and confiscate anything, it is advisable to seek the guidance of a seasoned defense attorney to discuss the situation and receive assistance in determining any potential charges or locations they may investigate in the future.
Could you imagine being accused of something you didn't do? When you are accused or charged with committing a crime that you didn't commit defending yourself may seem straightforward but it can be an arduous task to see to it that the charges are timely resolved. It can also feel hopeless and like it's impossible for you to get someone to listen to your side. The truth is that anything you say or do can and will be used against you. To increase your chances of being cleared of charges, it's advisable to have a defense lawyer who can support your innocence and fight for your rights. Criminal defense attorneys at Theos Law don't just listen - we act swiftly and always with your best interests at heart.
The legal system for juveniles in South Carolina is different than it is for adults. It comes with its own complications and hurdles to overcome. If you your child has been accused of a crime it's imperative to get legal counsel swiftly. Failure to do so could be destructive to your child's life, your family or result in a exposure to jail time. Keep reading to learn more about just a few of the most common criminal defense cases we accept at Theos Law Firm.
In terms of common criminal offenses in South Carolina, DUIs top the list, especially regarding mindful drivers with clean driving records and no criminal history. Unfortunately for these drivers, a DUI conviction in South Carolina stays on your record and cannot be expunged. Even first-time offenses with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent can be costly. Your insurance premiums go up for years, you may end up paying almost $1,000 in fines and fees, and there's a good chance you'll have to perform community service or serve jail time.
If your breathalyzer test result is more than .15%, you refuse the breathalyzer, or it is recorded as a refusal, your license will be automatically suspended, which complicates matters further. Throw in the possibility of interlock device rental, and your life may never be the same. For those reasons alone, it is crucial to approach such charges with the help of a DUI defense lawyer. At Theos Law Firm, our attorneys have years of experience in successfully fighting these types of charges.
Fortunately, if you or a loved one has been charged with DUI, there is hope. That's especially true if the accused has undergone a breath or blood test for DUI. In fact, cases that involve such tests are successfully beaten every day. At Theos Law Firm, we will thoroughly investigate your DUI case in Columbia and explore every possible angle to have it dismissed.
To begin that process, your criminal defense lawyer in Columbia, SC, may seek answers to many questions, including:
If you are dealing with drug-related crimes in Columbia or another city in South Carolina, it is crucial for you to understand the potential penalties involved. Possession of a controlled substance may fall under the category of a misdemeanor, but many drug offenses are considered felonies. Even a minor drug offense conviction can result in long-lasting negative consequences. As such, it's always advisable to explore your options and seek the assistance of a Columbia drug crime attorney. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can help safeguard your rights and may help achieve a favorable outcome.
One of the most frequent questions we hear at Theos Law is, "What does possession mean?"
Drug charges based on possession in South Carolina are divided into three categories:
However, the state also has other drug charges that are not based on the weight of the drugs. These include:
Possession-based drug charges in South Carolina are deemed "graduated offenses" with penalties that grow more severe based on the weight of the drugs. It's important to note that the charges can be based on either actual or constructive possession. Contact a criminal defense lawyer in Columbia, SC, today to learn more about the complexities involved with drug cases in Columbia and other cities in South Carolina.
Some of the most common drug charges we see at Theos Law include the following:
The simple answer to this question is a resounding "Yes." Drug paraphernalia can refer to various items such as pipes, bongs, syringes, scales, grinders, and rolling papers which are linked to drug usage, preparation, storage, or hiding. Even though some of these items may have legitimate uses, like tobacco pipes or medical syringes, they can still be scrutinized by law enforcement if there is proof of illegal drug use or intent.
If you are facing assault and battery charges, it is possible that you haven't actually physically harmed someone. Many people associate assault and battery with brutal beatings, but that is just one example. There are other situations that are less severe than what people typically imagine.
It's a common misunderstanding that physical injury is required for assault and battery charges. The fines, penalties, and jail time you may face depend on the severity of your charges and the number of offenses. Regardless of the degree of your charges, Assault and Battery is a serious offense that should not be taken lightly. The consequences of a conviction can be life-changing, and as such, your criminal defense lawyer in Columbia, SC, should work relentlessly to fight the charges being levied against you.
Though this list isn't comprehensive, here are some of the biggest factors that dictate the severity of your assault and battery charges:
Causing harm to someone or threatening to do so with the ability to carry out the threat can result in a charge of third-degree assault and battery. This misdemeanor offense is typically heard in municipal or magistrate courts and may carry a maximum sentence of 30 days in jail.
Causing harm or making threats to harm someone that results in moderate bodily injury can lead to charges of second-degree assault and battery. Additionally, touching someone's private parts without their consent can also result in charges of assault and battery in the second degree. This misdemeanor offense is heard in General Session court and can carry a maximum sentence of three years in prison.
Assault and Battery in the first degree can involve a number of actions such as inflicting an unlawful injury when kidnapping, touching a person's privates "with lewd and lascivious intent," and much more. Contact Theos Law Firm for more info on the degrees of Assault and Battery in South Carolina.
At Theos Law firm, we work tirelessly to ensure that our client's rights are not overlooked. Because unfortunately, the rights of everyday citizens are often trampled by law enforcement oversights and legal system failures.
That's why every criminal defense lawyer at our firm works hard to provide guidance and support throughout the legal process by keeping you informed of updates and as comfortable as possible during this trying time. Benefits of hiring Theos Law Firm include:
Unlike some criminal defense law firms in South Carolina, our team believes that everyone deserves a great lawyer when their freedoms are on the line. If you or a loved one has been accused of a crime in South Carolina, trust Theos Law to have your back without judgment.
Raines, a leading hospitality mana...
Raines, a leading hospitality management, development, and investment organization, is pleased to announce the groundbreaking of The Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista in Columbia, SC. Developed and managed by Raines, this will be the second Shepherd Hotel in South Carolina. With design and architecture by Garvin Design Group and built by Mashburn Construction, the Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista is scheduled for completion in the fall of 2025. The first Shepherd Hotel opened in downtown Clemson, SC, in September of 2022. The brand was co-founded by Rick Hayduk, a seasoned hotel visionary; Rich Davies, a third-generation real estate developer; and Dabo Swinney, Clemson University Head Football Coach. Inspired by his two children with Down Syndrome, Rick had long been interested in opening a hotel that employed individuals with disabilities. The Shepherd Hotel Downtown Clemson opened in collaboration with ClemsonLIFE, a Clemson University program that empowers students with intellectual disabilities to follow their career goals and experience life on a college campus. The Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista will partner with the University of South Carolina's CarolinaLIFE program to offer similar opportunities through the University's School of Hospitality and Tourism. "The Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista celebrates our passion for the hospitality industry and our commitment to our communities," said David Tart, managing partner, Raines. "We are excited to provide valuable skills and career opportunities for students and young adults with intellectual disabilities, particularly in college towns.""The Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista is a special milestone for us, as it builds on our mission to provide exceptional hospitality experiences through creating sustainable employment opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities in the industry," added Hayduk. "We are thrilled to partner with Raines Co to bring the second Shepherd Hotel to life." The Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista will transform the historic Columbia Central Fire Station into a 59-key boutique hotel. The address, 1001 Senate St., Columbia, SC, is in the heart of The Vista, a historic development project in proximity to the University of South Carolina, the South Carolina Statehouse, Colonial Life Arena, and the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. The location in the Vista is prime location, within walking distance to a variety of restaurants and leisure activities. This adaptive reuse project will honor the history of the Columbia Central Fire Station, one of the city's oldest fire stations, while incorporating modern amenities like a fitness center, board room, lounge, and valet parking. Kevin Johnson, James Beard Nominee and University of South Carolina alumni, will lead the hotel's food and beverage program. The on-site restaurant will serve both locals and hotel guests offering small plates, craft cocktails, and a robust beer and wine selection. "We're proud to be a part of this project, which blends our passion for historic preservation and our commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality spaces," said Lee Mashburn, president, Mashburn Construction. "Working with the Raines team is an exciting opportunity. We are honored to contribute to the revitalization of this iconic building. We are also thrilled to be constructing the second Shepherd Hotel in South Carolina, just blocks from Mashburn's corporate headquarters."2024 has been a landmark year for Raines. The company added more than 20 properties to its management portfolio since January, including 16 hotels in a landmark deal with Atlantic Hotels Group. Raines has been dedicated to holistic, sustainable growth, especially in the lifestyle sector, where they continue to expand their lifestyle division, Woven by Raines. In 2023, the company commemorated its 35th year in the hospitality industry and acquired third-party management company HP Hotels, among other accomplishments.
Raines is one of the Southeast’s premier hospitality management, development, and investment groups, offering a comprehensive approach to its impressive property portfolio and client base.
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We had a reader write in sharing a love for our historic marker map — which you should add to if you haven’t already — and asked if we would consider doing something similar for local holiday lights. Reader Stanton shared, “Every year we go driving around looking at Christmas lights. It would be nice to have suggestions for all those neighborhoods that decorate at level 10.”...
We had a reader write in sharing a love for our historic marker map — which you should add to if you haven’t already — and asked if we would consider doing something similar for local holiday lights. Reader Stanton shared, “Every year we go driving around looking at Christmas lights. It would be nice to have suggestions for all those neighborhoods that decorate at level 10.”
So, we’re looking for you to inform us on this one. Readers and we alike are looking to grab hot cocoa, turn on the seat warmers, crank up the holiday music + go for a drive to explore festive displays right in our neighborhoods.
You’re in the driver’s seat. Where are some of Cola’s best (level 10) holiday light displays? Think: neighborhood, public, or residential displays. Submit your favorite place to see holiday lights in Cola to our local map by Thursday, Dec. 5.
We added the first points on the map, featuring three light displays around the Midlands you shouldn’t miss.
Fireflies Holiday Lights | Friday, Nov. 15 to Saturday, Jan. 4 — exclusion dates apply | Segra Park, 1640 Freed St., Columbia | $10+ | Read about what you can expect at this year’s holiday light show. Spoiler alert — it will feature more lights + entertainment for the whole family.
Holiday Lights on the River | Wednesday, Nov. 27-Tuesday, Dec. 31 | 6-10 p.m. | Saluda Shoals Park | $25+ | Journey through more than three miles of lights featuring colorful, animated light displays of all shapes and sizes
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden - Lights Before Christmas | Select nights Friday, Nov. 15 through Sunday, Jan. 12 | 5-9 p.m. | Riverbanks Zoo and Garden | $20+ | Take your photo with Santa, roast marshmallows at the Jingle Bell Bonfire, and be sure to wear your hat. Pro tip: it snows nightly at Riverbanks during the Lights Before Christmas.
Ready to add your own? Submit here.
The South Carolina Basketball Coaches Association released its top boys and girls high school basketball players to watch this season.They are listed by top seniors in each division, plus Elite Boys and Girls, which are top players regardless of classification.The SCBCA will release its preseason team rankings WednesdayJosh Leonard, Wilson; Jordan Watford, Lancaster; Tristan Thompson, Wilson; Brian Sumpter, Keenan; Korie Corbett, Ridge View; Kaleb Evans, Lexington; Abijah Franklin, WrenChi’nya Isaac, Lower R...
The South Carolina Basketball Coaches Association released its top boys and girls high school basketball players to watch this season.
They are listed by top seniors in each division, plus Elite Boys and Girls, which are top players regardless of classification.
The SCBCA will release its preseason team rankings Wednesday
Josh Leonard, Wilson; Jordan Watford, Lancaster; Tristan Thompson, Wilson; Brian Sumpter, Keenan; Korie Corbett, Ridge View; Kaleb Evans, Lexington; Abijah Franklin, Wren
Chi’nya Isaac, Lower Richland; Aubrey Stevenson, Rock Hill; Ja’Nyia Cunningham, South Pointe; Khalia Hartwell, Westside; Molly Daugherty, Summerville; Tamia Watkins, Andrew Jackson; Dream Watson, Military Magnet; Braylin Mungo, Camden
Melvin Teal, Summervillel Yasir Cromer, River Bluff; Evan Enos, Byrnes; Taurus ‘TJ’ Lewis, Blythewood; Keenan Whiteside, Dorman
Shane Potts, Goose Creek; John Simmons, Myrtle Beach; Nas Berry, Fort Mill; CJ Terrell, Greenwood; Roman Cooley, Greenville
Emma Daugherty, Summerville; Te’Ericka Dowling, Byrnes; Skyla Tuthill, Ashley Ridge; Anasia Harvey, Ridge View; Michaela Fairwell, Dutch Fork
Elly Trickett, Riverside; Faith Farmer, North Myrtle Beach; Tamerah Wynn, TL Hanna; Emory Waters-Inman, White Knoll; Destiny Omeire, Westwood
Daron Dunbar, North Agusta’ Teon Tindall, Crestwood’ Shannon Davis, Crestwood; L.J. Britt, Gray Collegiate; Amare Anderson, Greer
Serenity Woods, South Pointe’ Morgan Chapman, Camden; Jasmine Epps, South Aiken; Colleen Dimaio, Daniel; Leanissa Swinton, Wilson
Brelin Dennis, Belton-Honea Path; Jaleel McGee, Powdersville; Braylen Silver, Greer Middle College; Adam Brown, Christ Church; Keith Smith, Orangeburg-Wilkinson
Janiya Richburg, Loris; Sadie Burnette, Woodruff; Raegan Mobley, West Oak; Mariasia Moody, Loris; Krislyn Wilder, Chapman
Tushawn Richardson, Clinton; Emmanuel “Manny” Davis, Eau Clarie; Ja’ Kease Salley - Woodland; Jamie Brooks - Atlantic Collegiate Academy; Bryce Peterson - Andrew Jackson
Kay Kay Dawkins, Blacksburg; Janiyah Squire, Ninety Six; Jordyn Adams, Fairfield Central Jaeda Davis, Marion; Destinee Tiller, Eau Claire
Joshua Goodman, Denmark-Olar; Bryson Robinson, Bethune-Bowman; Stetson Stack, North; Tyrek Wright, McBee; Tylin Jenkins, Hannah-Pamplico
Aveion Walker, Denmark-Olar; Sabri Mitchell, Military Magnet; Lauren Middleton, Cross; Jasmyn Jenkins, Carver’s Bay; Raven Brown, Bamberg-Ehrhardt
This story was originally published November 18, 2024, 11:57 AM.
The State
Lou Bezjak is the High School Sports Prep Coordinator for The (Columbia) State and (Hilton Head) Island Packet. He previously worked at the Florence Morning News and had covered high school sports in South Carolina since 2002. Lou is a two-time South Carolina Sports Writer of the Year by the National Sports Media Association.
South Carolina has among the safest hospitals in the U.S., but they’re not all equal, a new report shows.The Leapfrog Group — a national nonprofit that has collected and published data on patient safety and quality care for more than two decades — recently released its fall ...
South Carolina has among the safest hospitals in the U.S., but they’re not all equal, a new report shows.
The Leapfrog Group — a national nonprofit that has collected and published data on patient safety and quality care for more than two decades — recently released its fall 2024 Hospital Safety Grades. Hospitals were scored with A through F letter grades.
Overall South Carolina ranked 10th among states with safest hospitals, with 40.4% of its facilities earning an A ranking. However, among the 52 South Carolina hospitals reviewed, 15 received a C ranking and two earned a D ranking. No South Carolina hospital received an F grade.
“Despite improvements seen in this fall’s Safety Grade, significant variation in performance remains across U.S. hospitals,” Leah Binder, President and CEO of The Leapfrog Group, said in a press release. “That’s why it’s so important for people to consult grades when making decisions about seeking care. All hospitals are not the same.”
Leapfrog grades the safety of hospitals in the U.S. based on how well they prevent medical errors, accidents, injuries and infections that kill or harm patients. About 30 measures are used to generate the safety grades.
The grades are assigned using publicly available data. Measures’ scores are calculated using patient responses to a national and standardized survey following a hospital visit.
Below are the South Carolina hospitals with the worst safety ratings. To view the entire list, click here.
D Grade
222 S. Herlong Avenue
Rock Hill, SC 29732-1952
Tidelands Georgetown Memorial Hospital
606 Black River Rd
Georgetown, SC 29440-3304
C Grade
1530 N Limestone St
Gaffney, SC 29340-4738
1000 Medical Center Drive
Hardeeville, SC 29927
501 Robertson Boulevard
Walterboro, SC 29488-5714
300 Singleton Ridge Road
Conway, SC 29526-9175
2000 Hospital Drive
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464-3294
25 Hospital Center Boulevard
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Medical University of South Carolina University Medical Center
171 Ashley Ave
Charleston, SC 29425
MUSC Health Columbia Medical Center Downtown
2435 Forest Drive
Columbia, SC 29204-2098
MUSC Health Columbia Medical Center Northeast
120 Gateway Corporate Blvd
Columbia, SC 29203
3000 St. Matthews Road
Orangeburg, SC 29118-1470
250 Westmoreland Rd
Greer, SC 29651
Prisma Health Baptist Easley Hospital
200 Fleetwood Drive
Easley, SC 29640-2076
101 E Wood St
Spartanburg, SC 29303-3016
Spartanburg Medical Center - Mary Black Campus
1700 Skylyn Dr
Spartanburg, SC 29307-1061
Tidelands Waccamaw Community Hospital
4070 Highway 17 South
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Since Leapfrog reported Hospital Safety Grades in fall 2022, when healthcare-associated infections (HAI) rates were at their highest peak since 2016, average HAI scores have dropped significantly.
This story was originally published November 19, 2024, 6:00 AM.