Rock Hill Criminal Defense Lawyer

Federal Crimes

All alleged violations of federal criminal statutes in South Carolina are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina in one of the federal courthouses in the state. The federal criminal justice system is quite different from the state system in many ways. 

We offer assertive defense representation in the federal courts of South Carolina for crimes such as fraud, drug-related offenses, armed robbery, and some sex-related crimes. 

Understanding the complexities of the federal court system is crucial for an effective defense. Our attorneys are well-versed in federal legal procedures and ensure that each aspect of your case is addressed meticulously. From pre-trial motions to negotiating plea deals, we are diligent in our efforts to secure favorable outcomes.

Drug Crimes

South Carolina categorizes the most typical drug crimes into four basic types or categories of charges, typically determined by the controlled substance involved and the amount or weight of the drug. These categories are possession, possession with intent to distribute, distribution and trafficking. When there is an allegation that someone sold a controlled substance, the typical charge is distribution. Some of the more common controlled substances involved in criminal drug charges in our practice include marijuana, cocaine, prescription drugs, methamphetamine, crack cocaine, and fentanyl.

Penalties for drug offenses in South Carolina can be severe, particularly for subsequent drug offenses and trafficking offenses. All trafficking offenses in South Carolina carry mandatory minimum prison sentences.

If charged with a drug offense in South Carolina, it’s important to have a defense attorney that understands the drug laws and how to best advocate for the client and develop the defense strategy most likely to result in the best outcome. Drug offenses require precise legal knowledge due to the varying charges, therefore, we meticulously analyze police procedures, evidence collection, and constitutional rights to fight these charges effectively.

Domestic Violence

In South Carolina, domestic violence involves someone causing harm or injury to a household member or threatening or attempting to cause them harm or injury. Household members include spouses, former spouses, people who have a child together, and people of the opposite sex who live together or have lived together.

The seriousness of the charge and the potential penalties for an incident of domestic violence are determined by various aggravating factors that include the extent of injury, whether an order of protection is violated, whether a child observes the incident, whether the victim is pregnant, and whether the defendant has prior convictions for domestic violence.

There are four levels of domestic violence charges. The least serious is Domestic Violence in the third degree, a misdemeanor that carries a fine and/or up to 90 days in jail. Domestic Violence of a high and aggravated nature is the most serious domestic violence-specific crime in South Carolina, classified as a violent crime and carrying up to twenty years in prison.

Gun rights can be seriously impacted for those charged with or convicted of domestic violence.

If you or a family member has been charged with a domestic violence offense in South Carolina, it’s important to have a defense attorney that has experience handling these types of cases and knows how to best advocate for the client and select the defense strategy most likely to result in the best outcome. Mr. Bruce has many years of experience handling domestic violence cases of all levels. 

Our legal team is adept at navigating the emotional and legal complexities associated with domestic violence cases. We aim to mitigate charges through well-planned strategies that can include negotiating plea agreements or petitioning for reduced charges. Understanding the impact a conviction can have on your personal and professional life, we work diligently to safeguard your future.

Violent Crimes 

Violent crimes are most often thought of as those that involve acts of real physical violence resulting in serious injury. In South Carolina, a violent crime is a classification of crimes that may or may not involve actual violence. For example, drug trafficking can be a violent crime but not involve anything more than possession of a controlled substance over a threshold amount.

Section 16-1-60, SC Code of Laws, lists those crimes defined as “violent crimes.” Under South Carolina law, a “violent crime” includes offenses such as murder (Section 16-3-10), attempted murder (Section 16-3-29), voluntary manslaughter (Section 16-3-50), armed robbery (Section 16-11-330(A)), attempted armed robbery (Section 16-11-330(B)), drug trafficking as defined in Section 44-53-370(e), and many others.

If a person is convicted of a "violent crime," this can affect parole eligibility, housing, and privileges in the Department of Corrections and have other consequences, such as causing the person to be subject to a serious gun charge if caught possessing a firearm.

Violent crime charges can drastically alter a person's future. Our skilled attorneys work thoroughly to dissect every aspect of the charges, ensuring that every defense avenue is explored. From investigating evidence to engaging expert witnesses, we endeavor to provide comprehensive representation that influences favorable legal resolutions.

Traffic Offenses & DUI

Traffic offenses, particularly DUIs, are common charges that can have serious repercussions in Rock Hill, SC. Penalties range from fines to license suspension and even incarceration for repeat offenses. Understanding South Carolina's DUI laws is crucial for an effective defense strategy, as local enforcement can be rigorous, particularly in areas known for higher incidences of DUI offenses.

At Bruce Law Firm, we work diligently to evaluate each case's circumstances. We investigate the procedures followed during arrest, such as breathalyzer calibration and officer conduct, to uncover any procedural missteps. Our approach involves negotiating for reduced charges or alternative sentencing, focusing on minimizing the long-term impact on your record and driving privileges.

White Collar Crimes

White collar crimes are non-violent offenses committed for financial gain, typically in a business or professional setting. These complex cases often involve detailed financial records and digital evidence. In South Carolina, common white collar offenses include embezzlement, breach of trust with fraudulent intent, forgery, identity theft, and various forms of fraud, such as bank, mail, wire, and credit card fraud. An accusation alone can be devastating to a person’s career and reputation, even before a case goes to court.

The penalties for a white collar crime conviction in South Carolina can be severe and life-altering. Depending on the specific charge and the monetary value involved, consequences range from significant fines and mandatory restitution (repaying the alleged victim) to lengthy prison sentences. Many of these offenses are classified as felonies, which carry a permanent criminal record that can impact professional licenses, employment opportunities, and civil rights. Investigations can be lengthy and conducted by state or federal agencies, each with its own complex procedural rules.

Defending against a white collar crime charge requires a meticulous and strategic approach. Our legal team is experienced in analyzing complex financial documentation, challenging the prosecution's evidence, and identifying procedural errors by investigators. We work to demonstrate a lack of fraudulent intent, which is a critical element the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. Whether negotiating with prosecutors for a favorable resolution or aggressively defending your rights at trial, we are committed to protecting your future and reputation from the severe consequences of a white collar conviction.