Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Columbia

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Columbia, South Carolina?

  Call 803-252-2911 to reach the Columbia Police Department for non-emergency concerns.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Columbia, South Carolina?

  You can get a copy of a police report from the Columbia Police Headquarters at 1 Justice Square, corner Lincoln and Washington Streets, Mondays through Fridays, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You must have a Federal or State-issued ID with you for verification purposes.

• Is it okay to avoid arrest in Columbia if you are sure you are innocent?

  If you are being arrested in Columbia, do not resist even if you are confident that you have done nothing wrong or that you are innocent. If you believe the charges are incorrect or unfair, cooperate with the authorities anyway and get in touch with an attorney before giving any statement. Running or resisting arrest can result in additional charges and can make you appear guilty.

• What can a criminal defense attorney in Columbia do for you?

  If you were charged with a criminal offense in Columbia, it would be wise of you to get a criminal defense attorney, who can help you navigate the legal system. Your attorney has better access to resources that can help your case. They will also protect your rights as they handle negotiations with prosecutors. And, if your case ever goes to trial, your lawyer can help you understand the court procedures and prepare you for what to expect.

• Can you just plead guilty for a petty offense or a misdemeanor in Columbia?

  Even if the offense seems minor to you, the decision to enter a guilty plea in Columbia should not be made rashly. It is advisable that you consult the advice of a criminal defense attorney before you make such a decision. A guilty plea can have lasting consequences in your life, such as potentially losing your right to public housing, the suspension of your driver’s license, the loss of your right to carry a firearm, and even the loss of your right to vote.

• Can you remove criminal records under your name in Columbia?

  It is possible for you to remove criminal records related to your arrest or conviction in Columbia through a court order called “expungement,” which can give you a fresh start by having a second chance at a clean criminal record. Not all arrests or convictions can be expunged, though. Only non-convictions, or charges that have been dismissed, were not prosecuted, or returned not-guilty verdicts, can be expunged.

• How do you make sure your charge has been expunged in Columbia?

  If you recently filed for the expungement of your charge or charges and you wish to find out whether they have been officially expunged or not, you will have to head on over to the Violations Department of the Columbia Police Department, which is located under the Municipal Court at 811 Washington Street.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.