Charleston Felony Defense Lawyer

Contact Sanders Law Firm, LLC for Help

If you have been charged with a felony, it means that you are at risk of facing jail time and hefty fines. You will want a lawyer in your corner who has experience litigating felony cases. T.O. Sanders, founding attorney of Sanders Law Firm, LLC, is a former criminal prosecutor. As such, he has unique experience working cases from both sides of the courtroom. Mr. Sanders knows how prosecutors formulate their strategy and the tactics the defense can use to tear it down. Additionally, our team has the time and resources to provide every client with personal attention and a thorough investigation into the details of their case.

When you reach out to us after a serious charge, we take the time to explain the process in clear terms so you understand what to expect at every stage in the Charleston County court system, from bond hearings through potential jury trial. We carefully review the accusations, the evidence seized by law enforcement, and the way your rights were handled, and we look for opportunities to challenge the state's case or seek reduced charges where appropriate. By working closely with a felony attorney Charleston defendants can trust, you can make informed decisions about whether to pursue negotiation or prepare for trial, rather than feeling rushed or pressured.

To schedule an appointment with a trusted Charleston criminal defense lawyer, call (843) 573-8828. 

Understanding Felony Charges in South Carolina

South Carolina has no statute of limitations for felony charges. This means you could be charged with a crime that was committed inside the state at any time, even if the crime in question took place more than twenty years ago. Felonies are divided into six categories from A to F.

Felony classifications in South Carolina:

• Class A – The most serious felony classification. Class A felonies include murder, attempted murder, and 1st degree sex crimes. Penalties include 30 years in prison.
• Class B – Many felonies where the offender intentionally participated in an action that contributed to the serious injury or the death of another are ranked Class B or higher. These include fatal hit and runs, conspiracy to commit a crime, and 2nd degree arson. Penalties include up to 25 years in prison.
• Class C – Crimes of a violent nature, such as carjacking, armed robbery, or kidnapping, are usually given at least a Class C ranking. Penalties include fines up to $100,000 and/or up to 20 years in prison.
• Class D – Criminal acts such as felony drunk driving, setting fire to personal property (3rd degree arson), and first-time drug offenses are usually labeled Class D offenses. Penalties include fines up to $100,000 and/or up to 15 years in prison.
• Class E – Crimes are often given a Class E felony classification if the defendant has been found guilty of multiple misdemeanors in the past or harming children. Penalties include fines up to $50,000 and/or up to 10 years in prison.
• Class F – These are the lowest class of felonies. They include charges such as failure to act to prevent sexual assault of a child, stalking and theft, and improper conduct during an election. Penalties include fines up to $25,000 and/or up to 5 years in prison

What To Expect in a Charleston Felony Case

After an arrest for a felony in the Charleston area, your case typically begins with a bond hearing, where a judge at Charleston County bond court decides whether you will be released while your case is pending and on what conditions. From there, your matter is usually transferred to the Court of General Sessions, where prosecutors from the Solicitor’s Office review the evidence, may seek an indictment, and decide how to proceed. During this time, we obtain discovery, assess whether law enforcement followed South Carolina and federal constitutional requirements, and advise you about possible defenses and next steps so you are not navigating the process alone.

As your case moves forward, there may be motion hearings to challenge the admissibility of evidence, negotiations about potential plea offers, and, in some situations, preparation for trial before a jury in the Charleston County Judicial Center. We work with you to gather favorable information, such as employment records or treatment efforts, that may help in negotiations or at sentencing if your case reaches that stage. By partnering with a felony defense attorney Charleston residents can turn to for guidance, you gain an advocate who understands the local court procedures, communicates with you regularly about developments, and helps you weigh the risks and benefits of each option at every step.

Start Working With a Felony Defense Attorney in Charleston Today

The penalties for felonies are serious. It is important to stay calm and find an attorney who can help. Charleston criminal defense lawyer T.O. Sanders holds the preeminent A.V. rating from Martindale-Hubbell, a prestigious institution that evaluates attorneys nationwide. The sooner our team can start investigating your case, the more evidence we can accumulate on your behalf.

When you work with us, we guide you through each decision, from what to say at your first appearance in Charleston County General Sessions Court to how to respond if the solicitor offers a plea agreement. We evaluate not only the immediate risk of prison time and fines but also the long-term consequences for employment, housing, and professional licenses so you can weigh all of your options. By choosing a felony criminal defense lawyer Charleston residents can count on, you have a legal team that will prepare thoroughly, keep you informed, and stand with you in court when your future is on the line.

Call us today at (843) 573-8828 to get started.