Sanders & Nettles has a strong record of success defending our clients who are accused of serious crimes, including domestic violence. Our Columbia South Carolina domestic violence defense attorneys believe that everyone, no matter what the charge, is entitled to a fair trial and an aggressive defense. We are dedicated to providing that defense for our clients and winning them the best possible outcome. For a free consultation on your South Carolina domestic violence case, call Sanders & Nettles today.
Assault and battery is a crime no matter who the victim is. But South Carolina law gives special status to assaults that are considered domestic violence. State domestic violence laws cover:
- Spouses (wives and husbands)
- Children
- Former spouses
- A male and female who live together or used to live together
- People who have a child in common
Unfortunately, a mere accusation of domestic violence can trigger an automatic arrest in South Carolina. Law enforcement officers who have seen too many battered wives will often take a female's word over a male's, or make an arrest without looking for evidence first. In fact, state law allows warrantless arrests in some Charleston domestic violence cases. And even in cases where the alleged victim has recanted an accusation and doesn't want to press charges, the law allows prosecutors to continue with the criminal case. Too often, this results in jail time and a criminal record for an innocent person.
Physically harming or threatening to physically harm a member of your household is a misdemeanor first offense, carrying up to 30 days in jail and a fine of $1,000 to $2,500. A third offense is a felony carrying one to three years in prison. If the assault caused serious bodily injury, involved a weapon or could reasonably have caused serious bodily injury or death, it is a felony carrying one to ten years in prison. In addition, the court may sentence you to a batterer treatment program or a substance abuse program, both of which you must pay for yourself. Causing great bodily injury to a child is a felony carrying up to 20 years in prison. A felony domestic violence conviction also triggers an automatic loss of your right to use or own a firearm, and could hurt you in any family court proceedings.
If you've been accused of domestic violence in South Carolina, you need a cool-headed advocate who can help explain your side of the story to the authorities. The experienced South Carolina criminal defense attorneys at Sanders & Nettles can help. We are dedicated to protecting the rights of all of our clients, no matter what the accusation. We will look at your arrest record and your case for mitigating circumstances, mistakes by law enforcement or witness credibility problems that could get your charges eliminated or dropped or your penalties reduced. Our goal is always to protect your freedom, your finances and your family.
Call Sanders & Nettles today for a free consultation on your South Carolina domestic violence case!