Serving What is Drug Court & How Does it Work in South Carolina?
Approximately 50% of the 7 million convicted criminals were under the influence of various drugs when they committed their offenses. An estimated two-thirds of them were also regular drug users. This is where drug courts come in. The main purpose of drug courts is to treat drug-involved offenders to reduce…
Read MoreWhat If My License Gets Suspended Indefinitely?
Your driver’s license can be suspended indefinitely in South Carolina for various reasons, such as getting arrested for a DUI or having too many points against your driver’s license. How long your license will remain suspended will be dependent on the offense you committed and the circumstances of your case….
Read MoreCriminal Defense Lawyer vs a Public Defender
If you’ve been arrested for any kind of criminal offense in South Carolina, you must make many life-changing decisions. These include how you’ll plead your case, your defense strategy, the possibility and consequences of accepting a plea deal, and whether you should settle for the public defender the court assigned…
Read MoreClaiming Self-Defense in South Carolina
You have the legal right to protect yourself and others from any harm. This means that you can harm someone who is meaning to hurt you in self-defense and not be liable for the resulting injuries. However, this legal protection will only apply if your actions are found to be…
Read MoreWhy Do I Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
You need a criminal defense lawyer if you are facing any kind of criminal charges because if you get convicted, you will face imprisonment, costly fines and fees, collateral consequences, and probation, among other harsh penalties. Having a Myrtle Beach criminal defense lawyer on your side can increase your chances…
Read MoreWhat is a Court Subpoena?
A subpoena is a formal written court order that requires a person or entity to appear in court, testify in a legal proceeding, or provide documents or other types of evidence in a case. Courts, lawyers, government agencies, and law enforcement issue subpoenas, which can be used in various legal…
Read MoreChild Pornography Penalties in South Carolina
Crimes involving children are among the most heinous criminal offenses in the eyes of the law. But this is especially true in cases involving physical injury and those that are sexual in nature. Consequently, they are prosecuted aggressively, and the prosecution always pushes for the maximum penalties allowed under the…
Read MoreDo I Have to Be Driving to Get a DUI in South Carolina?
While a primary element of driving under the influence charges in South Carolina is actually driving, having the professional legal counsel of an experienced South Carolina criminal defense attorney on your side can make a big difference. The Elements of a DUI Charge in South Carolina To bring a successful…
Read MoreWhat Happens if You Violate the Rules of Probation or House Arrest?
If you are put on probation or house arrest, it means you won’t be incarcerated, but it does not mean that you’re free to do everything that you could prior to the conviction in question. There are a range of rules and regulations that apply to those who are on…
Read MoreWhat Is the Difference Between Jail, Juvie, and Prison?
If you or your child is facing a criminal charge, knowing the difference between jail, prison, and juvenile detention – or juvie – is important. If this is the difficult situation you find yourself in, protecting your rights from the outset is key, and working with an experienced South Carolina…
Read MoreWhat Are The Possible Consequences When Charged With Domestic Violence?
Allegations of domestic violence have immensely serious repercussions. At The Law Office of Brad C. Richardson, LLC, our Myrtle Beach criminal defense attorney understands that there are always two sides to every story, and that’s true even in domestic violence cases. We aim to seek the best possible result for…
Read MoreHow Much Will My DUI Cost Me?
In South Carolina, people cannot operate a motor vehicle if they have been drinking alcohol or consuming drugs to the degree that they’re appreciably and materially impaired. Drivers will be presumed to be impaired if they have a .08% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or higher. In other words, the mere…
Read MoreThree reasons why talking to the police could put your case at risk
When you’re under suspicion of criminal wrongdoing or have been arrested for allegedly committing a crime, you might be tempted to talk to the police in an attempt to explain away your involvement. But you should resist that urge. Talking the police will probably only get you deeper into trouble,…
Read MoreMarijuana is illegal in South Carolina and can lead to arrests
After many years of debate across the nation as to whether marijuana should remain illegal and how aggressively to pursue crimes related to it, it is becoming more mainstream as a rising number of states are legalizing it. This is medical use, recreational use or both. Despite that, South Carolina…
Read MoreMyrtle Beach police have crime fighting plans for tourist season
Myrtle Beach is known to be a high-traffic tourist destination. This is beneficial to the town and South Carolina in general. However, there is no debating that the more people come from different areas, states and countries, the bigger the chance for criminal activity to occur. With that, law enforcement…
Read MoreArrest yields M-16, drugs, caustic press release from sheriff
The release of a criminal suspect on bail can be a frustrating event for local law enforcement officers. After a judge ordered the release of a man arrested on weapons and drug charges, the sheriff of Orangeburg County was compelled to issue a sharply critical press release in which he…
Read MoreThe penalties you could be hit with if you’re convicted
Being charged with a criminal offense can leave you on edge, unsure of what your future will bring. If you don’t adequately defend yourself, you could end up facing conviction. In that situation, you could get hit with broad, significant, and wide-ranging penalties that can reshape your life. But what,…
Read MoreWhat are my rights to privacy in my dorm room?
Myrtle Beach and the surrounding communities are the home to many college, university and vocational students. Many of these students live in dormitories or other student housing. They will likely think of these places as their home. They expect some level of privacy for both themselves and their stuff. To…
Read MoreWhen can a person under age 21 legally be given alcohol?
It is common knowledge that you cannot sell alcohol to a person under age 21 in South Carolina. Failing to check a customer’s identification is considered evidence that the sale was illegal, unless proven otherwise, and the purchaser of the alcohol can also be punished. However, what if you simply…
Read MoreDid the police misapply these warrant exceptions in your case?
If you’ve been charged with a criminal offense, then the prosecution probably has physical evidence to present against you. This evidence likely wasn’t voluntarily handed over to investigators. Instead, it was probably obtained through a search warrant. However, in many cases, law enforcement secures incriminating evidence through warrantless searches. Although…
Read MoreMyrtle Beach traffic checkpoint nets arrest and tickets
South Carolina police often set up checkpoints to make arrests for drunk driving, drug possession, trafficking and more. Recent checkpoint activity According to a local newspaper, a recent traffic checkpoint netted police many tickets and several arrests. The news report claimed that this checkpoint resulted in over 40 tickets with…
Read MoreDrug convictions in college and the impact on financial aid
Life after high school is filled with many dreams, aspirations and opportunities. Some young adults choose to go to college to further these endeavors. However, everything could come to a screeching halt when they are accused of a drug crime on their college campus. With their present educational journey and…
Read MoreDefending yourself against sex crime charges
Being accused of a sex crime can ruin your entire life. You may think that this could never happen to you, but sometimes people can be confused or have a different take on what happened during a situation, and you may find yourself charged with a sex crime. South Carolina…
Read MoreIs Myrtle Beach as idyllic as they say?
In the winter months, in many places across the United States, it is cold and dreary and many people do whatever they can to escape from those extreme temperatures and gray days that seem to be endless. One of the places to which to escape from the cold winter is…
Read MoreTraveling to Myrtle Beach with pot
Marijuana is having a moment. In the majority of states in the United States, pot is legal in some way, whether it is for medical, recreational or both. However, South Carolina is not one of them. Still, some spring breakers may think Myrtle Beach is a bit more lax with…
Read MorePolice in South Carolina must record DUI stops
Police overreach is a growing problem in our nation and can bleed over into seemingly simple arrests, such as arrests for driving under the influence. Per South Carolina law, police in the state must record traffic stops based on probable cause DUI and DUI based on breath tests. These recordings…
Read MoreDrug convictions can reduce college student aid
A drug offense conviction can reduce your chances of getting a job, obtaining housing and paying for a higher education. Being convicted before seeking financial aid or while you are in college can impact your ability to obtain grants, loans and work-study opportunities. Ineligibility College financial aid eligibility depends on…
Read MoreLocal college quarterback faces assault charges against woman
There are many colleges in South Carolina and with that, there will likely be student activities, events and parties. In some cases, there are accusations that young people trying to have a good time went too far and led to criminal activity. This can involve alcohol, drugs, assaults and more….
Read MoreSouth Carolina drunk driving laws are strict
When it comes to driving in South Carolina, the following conditions are strictly prohibited for drivers (as is the case with the other states in the nation). Drivers who: Have a blood-alcohol content, or BAC, of 0.08% or more. If the driver is operating a commercial vehicle, their BAC must…
Read MoreThe complications involved in out-of-state DUI
A long-awaited opportunity to take time off and travel to another state represents rest and relaxation from the daily grind. Getting away from it all helps to unwind from daily rigors for you and those close to you to enjoy time off. However, that enjoyment and fun can also lead…
Read MoreThe cybertheft of media may seem easy, but it is not victimless
When we see FBI warnings against copyright infringement before burning a DVD or when we download some music on the Internet for free, we may believe that doing so really causes no harm, that everyone does it, and that these actions are never really prosecuted. This is not the truth….
Read MoreWhen can you be charged for marijuana possession?
While personal use of marijuana may be relatively common in South Carolina, it is still illegal to use and possess marijuana in our state. That means when people use it, they risk being charged with drug possession crimes. As with all drugs that are illegal in South Carolina, the potential…
Read MoreWhat is disorderly conduct in South Carolina?
We all like to have fun on vacation, and many people enjoy coming to South Carolina for its beaches and other tourist destinations. When you are on vacation with family and friends, things can sometimes get a little out of control, especially if alcohol is involved. All it takes is…
Read MoreKnow your rights before answering police questions
Getting stopped by a police officer while you are on vacation can be stressful, even if you have done nothing wrong. It is important to remember that while you should always act respectfully when dealing with law enforcement, you do not always have to answer an officer’s questions, particularly if…
Read MoreWhat are the penalties for using a fake ID to buy alcohol?
Throughout South Carolina, there are many tourist destinations and large-scale events where young people will be out and about. Often, this involves college students, but high schoolers are also frequent attendees. Alcohol consumption is a frequent part of sporting events, beach holidays and simply being a college student. It is…
Read MoreWhat are the shoplifting laws and penalties in South Carolina?
It is not uncommon for college students to get into mischief in South Carolina. It might be due to not thinking about what they are doing, being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or because of encouragement from other students. While it is often assumed that college crimes are…
Read MoreA person’s online activity can land them in prison
Visitors to and residents of Horry County probably spend a fair amount of time online Whether for business or pleasure, most Internet activity is perfectly legal. However, like other states and the federal government, South Carolina has outlawed child pornography and certain other types of online sexual activity. South Carolina…
Read MoreHow to pursue dram shop charges in South Carolina
It may come as a surprise to victims of drunk drivers, but you may be able to sue the place and person who allowed that drunk driver to become drunk. These types of lawsuits are called dram shop lawsuits. Dram shop laws Nearly every state has dram shop laws that…
Read MoreDrunk woman drives home and leaves friend’s baby in the car
Drunk driving is a serious crime by itself, but very few South Carolinians understand how driving under the influence of alcohol can lead to other crimes. An incident of how this happens was recently reported in Charleston. The incident According to Charleston police, the suspect was shopping with a friend…
Read MoreSouth Carolina Drug Schedules Explained
When arrested on drug charges in South Carolina, the exact charge is based on a few factors including but not limited to the amount or weight of the drugs and of course, what type of drugs are found. Both of these factors can drastically affect the potential sentence you may…
Read MoreCollege students should understand underage alcohol crimes
Many college students congregate in South Carolina. The summer is an especially busy time in places like Myrtle Beach. As they try to have an enjoyable time, it is not uncommon for them to drink alcohol. Even if the person is not driving after consuming alcohol while underage, it can…
Read MoreSouth Carolina’s Implied Consent Law
South Carolina, like most other states, has enacted what is called an Implied Consent Law. Despite the prevalence of similar laws in other states, most motorists do not understand how the law operates. Anyone planning to visit South Carolina should have a basic understanding of how the implied consent law…
Read MoreFour ways to block the prosecution’s evidence
When you’re facing drug charges, the prosecution is probably going to threaten you with harsh penalties. This is an attempt to get you to take a plea deal, which can be very tempting when the evidence against you seems insurmountable. But you shouldn’t immediately latch onto a settlement offer put…
Read MoreSouth Carolina’s marijuana laws are strict
Unlike some other states, South Carolina chooses to take a strict approach to the possession and sale of marijuana. The recreational use of the drug remains illegal in this state. Even South Carolina’s medical marijuana statutes are not terribly lenient. Penalties for marijuana add up quickly in this state. For…
Read MoreSouth Carolina tourists and the Driver’s License Compact
South Carolina is a great place to take a vacation and many people take advantage of its attractions every year. But what happens if you get a traffic citation, or a more serious vehicle-related charge, while you’re here? Will it impact your license back home? Agreement between states Back in…
Read MoreForged prescriptions and fraud charges
We often rely on prescription medications to help us recover from a serious illness or to manage chronic pain. Some prescription medications have a potential for abuse and a person addicted to these drugs may be desperate enough to forge a prescription or perform some other fraudulent act to obtain…
Read MoreWill I lose my license if I get a DUI in South Carolina?
Whether you have been a life-long resident of Myrtle Beach or whether you are there on vacation, there may be times when you have an alcoholic beverage or two and then drive back home or to your hotel. But, if the police pull you over and you receive a DUI,…
Read MoreA criminal conviction can ruin a college student’s future
When facing criminal allegations in South Carolina, there are a series of problems that will come to the forefront and must be considered when preparing a defense. Depending on the charges, there can be jail time, fines, loss of driving privileges and more. For college students, the mere reality that…
Read MoreIllegal search and seizure
Search and seizure protections are an important for anyone accused of a crime. It may be possible to suppress evidence obtained in violation of the accused individual’s 4th Amendment rights which can impact any criminal charges against the accused individual. Search and seizure criminal protections are found in the 4th…
Read MoreWhen is a vehicle search and seizure legal?
While officers have a wide array of abilities and responsibilities pursuant to the traffic stop, there are rights the motorist has that they should vehemently protect and reserve. The Fourth Amendment is one of the greatest protections for an individual against the overarching powers of the state. Under the Fourth…
Read MoreWere field sobriety tests part of your DUI stop?
Drunk driving arrests are common in South Carolina and throughout the country. In fact, thousands of these arrests occur in America each year and DUI is probably one of the most common criminal charges people might face. However, even though these arrests are occurring throughout the country by any number…
Read MoreCollege code of conduct violations may result in serious consequences
Many colleges and universities in South Carolina have implemented a code of conduct for their students to follow. The code of conduct may cover both academic and non-academic behavior relating to: Academic integrity (e.g., plagiarism, cheating, forgery) Drug and alcohol use and distribution Harassment (online or in-person) Hazing Sexual assault…
Read MoreWhen teachers are accused of crimes
With the multitude of schools across the United States, it is safe to say that not all schools in all districts in all states take the same approach if a teacher is accused of committing a crime. In South Carolina, for example, if a teacher is accused of committing a…
Read MoreUnderstanding what impairment means can help you avoid a DUI
South Carolina residents and tourists alike enjoy the area’s beautiful weather and beaches, which provide many options for fun and recreational activities. These activities may sometimes involve alcohol, and while partaking in a few drinks when relaxing or on vacation is normal and even expected, it is important to understand…
Read MoreSouth Carolina debating bill on medical marijuana
The debate over medical marijuana has been around for years but has heated up in South Carolina. Recently, the state legislature debated a new measure aimed at legalizing marijuana for medicinal purposes. The bill’s sponsor said the measure calls for much stricter regulations than similar bills in other states. Cannabis…
Read MoreCollege students could face sexual assault charges
College students who live, attend school or just have fun in the greater Myrtle Beach area could in the right circumstances face sexual assault charges. Recent cases across the country have put a spotlight on problems with sexual misconduct on college campuses and among students. These stories may have given…
Read MoreFighting drug crime charges in South Carolina
Drug crime charges are extremely common in America, including in South Carolina. Every day law enforcement officials throughout the state make arrests based on drug possession, trafficking, distribution or even manufacturing. If you have been arrested and charged with a drug crime in South Carolina, you need to remember this…
Read MoreDid you know that public defender representation can be risky?
Being charged with a crime can be scary given the implications involved with a criminal conviction. If you want to protect your freedom and your future as fully as possible, then you need to figure out the best way to defend yourself in your criminal proceedings. Depending on your income,…
Read MoreShould you take a plea deal in your criminal case?
It’s stressful facing criminal charges. After all, a conviction could lead to incarceration, hefty fines, and a haunting criminal record. Although the prosecution may seek the harshest penalties against you, you might have the option to avoid them by negotiating a plea deal. But before you settle on one of…
Read MoreAre there lifelong consequences of conviction?
After court, a conviction and the end of parole, that is the end of a criminal proceeding. After one has “served their time,” the consequences are over, right? Unfortunately, in the United States, that is not always the case, even for Conway, South Carolina, college students. Employability consequences A criminal…
Read MoreHorry County offers alternatives to traditional criminal court
Whether they are natives or visitors to the Myrtle Beach area, certain people accused of crimes may have the option to avoid a traditional criminal charge and conviction. These options can be a huge advantage to a person accused of a crime. Not only do they protect a person from…
Read MoreWhat college students and their parents should know about assault charges
College is a great experience for many young people, and often is the first opportunity that new adults are able to experience the independence of living apart from their families. During their college years, students may explore areas of study to refine their life plans and career goals. They may…
Read MoreWhat to expect after receiving marijuana trafficking charges
There are many states who have legalized some form of marijuana, whether that be recreational use or medical use, but South Caroline is not one of those states. It is still illegal to possess or use marijuana. That does not stop people in the state from using marijuana though. Since…
Read MoreOff-campus crimes can impact a student’s educational goals
Many college students, including those who attend Coastal Carolina University, may find themselves staring down a criminal charge. It is no secret, for example, that drugs and alcohol are common at parties attended by college students. Of course, underage drinking and public drunkenness are illegal, as is the possession of…
Read MoreInaccurate Breathalyzer results can help defend against DUI charges
If you get pulled over and the officer suspects you of driving under the influence, you may be asked to submit to a Breathalyzer test. Under South Carolina’s implied consent laws, Sec. 56-5-295, anyone with a driver’s license is automatically required to submit to a chemical test (Breathalyzer, blood test,…
Read MoreGetting a second chance after a criminal conviction in South Carolina
We all make mistakes, especially early on in life. For people in South Carolina and especially young people, getting a second chance after a run-in with the law can change the course of their future. Unfortunately, even an arrest without conviction may show up on a person’s record, and without…
Read MoreWhen can an officer legally search a vehicle for drugs?
If you are stopped by a police officer in South Carolina, your Fourth Amendment rights protect you from an unreasonable search and seizure of your property. To legally search your vehicle, the officer must have one of the following: A valid warrant: Generally, a warrant is issued after a petition…
Read MoreThe looming damage caused by some criminal convictions
If you’re facing criminal charges as a college student, then you’re probably afraid of how the allegations against you are going to affect your future. That’s a legitimate worry, and one that you need to take seriously. While jail, prison, and fines are all very real possibilities if you end…
Read MoreDo you know the extent of your right to remain silent?
You see it on T.V. all the time. An individual is arrested for a suspected crime, and the police drag them into the interrogation room for questioning. At some point, the accused individual is either informed of his right to remain silent, or he simply asks for a lawyer, both…
Read MoreWhat should you know about field sobriety tests and DUI arrests?
Some people in South Carolina may consider drunk driving arrests to be “minor.” That is far from the truth. Even first-time offenders with a drunk driving conviction can face serious repercussions, such as a year or more of probation supervision, a driver’s license suspension and even, perhaps, some time in…
Read MoreCan you use self-defense in your murder case?
Domestic disputes can quickly become heated, leading to physical altercations. In some of these instances, the physical aggression becomes so severe that serious injuries or death results. When this happens, you or your loved one could end up facing murder charges and the severe penalties associated with it. Given that…
Read MorePreparing a strong defense when charged with a drug crime
Each year thousands of South Carolina residents, as well as visitors to South Carolina, are charged with crimes. And, despite changing laws in many states, drug crimes are still one of the most common criminal charges for a person to face. If you have been arrested and charged with a…
Read MoreWhat you need to know about DUI and marijuana in South Carolina
Many residents and visitors of the Myrtle Beach area partake in marijuana. It is a drug that many think should be legal and they don’t see any harm in using the drug. But the laws in South Carolina don’t agree with that mentality and a person can wind up in…
Read MoreWhat is the expunction process and how can it help me?
A criminal conviction might impact the ability to secure a job, find housing, obtain financial aid and possess a firearm in some instances. For those reasons, accused individuals wishing to be free of a previous criminal conviction should understand and consider the expunction process. What does it mean to have…
Read MoreHow witness credibility could be key to your case
If you’re facing serious criminal charges such as those related to a sex crime or murder, then you could be hit with the harshest penalties imaginable under the law if you’re convicted. The stakes couldn’t be higher. That’s why you need to do everything you can to protect your future…
Read MoreGetting a DUI during vacation
Nothing can spoil a vacation more than getting pulled over for drunk driving. For vacationers flocking to South Carolina’s pristine beaches, the last thing they want to worry about is getting on the wrong side of the law. No matter where or when it happens, an out-of-state DUI conviction can…
Read MoreCollege life can be risky for underage drinkers
As South Carolina is known not only for beautiful beaches but also beach colleges, there is no shortage of good times to be had. The many undergraduate students who come to study, however, probably don’t think twice about going to weekend parties where the alcohol flows freely. That is, until…
Read MoreFacing the aftermath of a drunk driving arrest
Drunk driving arrests are probably some of the most common types of arrests that occur in South Carolina – and, indeed, throughout the country. Each year thousands of people in our state will face what seems like a lack of options in the aftermath of a drunk driving arrest. However,…
Read MoreSuppression and diversion in drug possession cases
Drug possession charges can have serious implications for your future. While these drug charges might result in jail or even prison time, especially if you’re convicted of drug trafficking, they can also threaten to destroy your reputation, make it hard for you to obtain a job and housing, and, if…
Read MoreCan you refuse to take a breathalyzer test?
Breath tests are one of the most common ways that the authorities determine whether a driver is under the influence of alcohol. As a result, many drivers may wonder whether they can refuse to take that test. If an officer pulls you over, are you required to submit to a…
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