Serving Is It Legal for Motorcyclists to Weave In and Out of Lanes?
Motorcycles offer a thrilling and convenient way to travel, but they also present unique risks on the road. One common question drivers and riders alike ask is whether it is legal for motorcyclists to weave in and out of the lanes, a practice sometimes referred to as “lane splitting” or…
Read MoreWhat Happens if I Am Falsely Arrested for a Crime?
Being falsely arrested is one of the most terrifying and frustrating experiences anyone can face. You know you are innocent, yet you find yourself handcuffed, booked, and facing criminal charges. Unfortunately, wrongful arrests do happen, and they can have lasting consequences for your reputation, your career, and your peace of…
Read MoreWhat Can the Police Arrest You for at a Protest?
As an American citizen, the First Amendment affords you the right to assemble and redress grievances against the government. However, expressing your opinion does not give you carte blanche to do whatever you like. Under certain circumstances, you may be arrested at a protest for failing to follow police orders…
Read MoreWhat is an Internet Sex Crime?
In recent years, law enforcement has been giving more attention to online predators targeting children and teens, with South Carolina’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force arresting 36 suspected child sex offenders during a single two-month operation. While the issue threatens public safety, there are many circumstances in which…
Read MoreDifference Between Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault
Sexual harassment and sexual assault are two terms that are often confused with one another but have different meanings. While sexual harassment denotes unwanted sexual advances or comments about a person’s sexuality, sexual assault is nonconsensual sexual touching or sexual acts. In this blog, our Conway sex crime lawyer provides…
Read MoreHow Does South Carolina Handle Repeat Offenders?
When a person commits multiple offenses of the same crime, the individual can expect to face harsher penalties for each subsequent offense. Take, for instance, driving under the influence. While you may think that having a couple of drinks does not mean that you are drunk, think again. It only…
Read MoreWhat are the Penalties for a Felony Conviction in SC?
If you have been charged with a felony offense, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what lies in store. If you have been found guilty of a felony, you may face imprisonment, hefty fines, and even be required to complete community service. This does not include the difficulty in…
Read MoreWhat are the Signs Someone Has Been Assaulted?
In 2023, the rate of simple assault was 117.04 per 10,000 inhabitants. Signs of assault include more than just cuts and bruises and may have a significant emotional impact on the victim. Due to the seriousness of the crime, South Carolina law imposes harsh penalties on offenders, with the potential…
Read MoreWhen Can a Juvenile be Tried as an Adult in Court in South Carolina?
In the state of South Carolina, the question of when a juvenile can be tried as an adult in court can be more complicated than most parents imagine. There are various factors that come into play, including the severity of the offense committed, the age of the juvenile, and their…
Read MoreWhat are the Charges for Assault with a Deadly Weapon?
Assault with a deadly weapon is a serious offense in South Carolina and can carry severe consequences. Anyone facing these charges should immediately seek defense representation to protect their rights and future. If you or someone you know has been arrested, contact The Law Office of Brad C. Richardson to…
Read MoreWhat Is Public Intoxication, and How Do You Get Charged with It?
In South Carolina, public intoxication falls under the charge of disorderly conduct, and if the alcohol you’ve consumed causes you to engage in such conduct, you could face charges. A better understanding of the legal intricacies of this charge, however, can help you remain on the orderly side of things,…
Read MoreWhat Are the Most Serious Felony Charges in SC?
Every criminal charge is a serious matter that requires careful attention, but felonies are more serious still, and there are, of course, certain felony charges that carry extremely dire consequences. If you are facing a criminal charge of any kind, the most important first step you can take is to…
Read MoreCan You Carry a Knife in SC?
South Carolina’s knife laws are relatively nonrestrictive, but understanding the rules and regulations that apply can help you remain on the right side of the law. If you are facing a criminal charge involving a knife or any other weapon, it’s time to consult with an experienced Conway criminal defense…
Read MoreSigns of Abuse in a Child
Knowing their child is safe is of the utmost importance for any parent. However, you cannot always be around them. Even if the law safeguards children from mistreatment and abuse in schools perpetuated by teachers, school staff, and coaches, among others, abuse can still happen. The problem is that, sometimes,…
Read MoreReckless Driving vs. Distracted Driving
Reckless driving refers to driving with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others, while distracted driving involves any activity that diverts attention from the road, such as texting or eating. Determining whether the evidence supports a charge of reckless driving or distracted driving requires a thorough understanding of…
Read MoreCan Your Phone be Used as Evidence?
Smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, storing a wealth of personal information, and much of what goes on in our lives can be found on our phones. However, when it comes to criminal proceedings, the question arises: can your phone be used as evidence? At Brad C….
Read MoreWhat Should I Do if I Was Arrested for a Crime?
While every criminal charge is unique to the circumstances involved, and there are a lot of charges to choose from, there are certain steps that anyone who is facing a criminal charge should take. One of the most important moves that you can make if you have been charged with…
Read MoreHow Do I Apply for a Restraining Order?
If you’re being stalked or harassed by someone else in the State of South Carolina, you don’t need a special relationship with the person, such as being their spouse, romantic partner, or family member, to obtain a restraining order against them. If someone has obtained a restraining order against you…
Read MoreCan I Record the Police in South Carolina?
It used to be that the police had considerably more credibility than the people they arrested because it was generally the officer’s word against the accused. When smartphones and police body cams became a regular part of the picture, however, this began to change somewhat. The fact is that you…
Read MoreIs Self Defense Okay in a Domestic Violence Situation?
Domestic violence is a serious problem in South Carolina and throughout the nation. When domestic violence rears its ugly head, things can escalate quickly, and protecting yourself is a concern. Sometimes, self-defense is the only means of protection from serious injury, and when this is the case, the legal claim…
Read MoreCan You Carry a Gun in S.C.?
The Second Amendment gives us the “right to keep and bear arms.” Our Founding Fathers stated that this was paramount to our country’s freedom. Unfortunately, each state interprets what that means differently. South Carolina currently allows concealed weapon owners 21 years of age or older the right to openly carry…
Read MoreShould I Take a Breath Test or a Blood Test?
If a police officer pulls you over for drunk driving, the officer may administer a blood alcohol test. Each test is administered differently, and in South Carolina, a motorist is usually asked to take a breath test if an officer suspects alcohol use. In this article, our Conway DUI lawyer…
Read MoreWhat are the Penalties for Not Pulling Over for an Officer?
If a police officer signals for you to stop your vehicle, it is in your best interest to pull over. It is unlikely that you are going to be able to outrun the police. At best, failing to stop for a law enforcement vehicle is classified as a high court…
Read MoreWhat if the Police Forget to Read Me My Miranda Rights?
As United States citizens, we are given protection against self-incrimination. When a police officer arrests someone and plans on questioning them, the officer is often required to read the suspect these rights, known as Miranda Rights. If you have been arrested, Attorney Brad C. Richardson is here to offer you…
Read MoreCan Your Phone Be Used as Evidence?
The matter of whether your phone can be used as evidence against you in a criminal case is complex. You’re generally well advised, however, to assume that any information found in your phone can – for the most part – be used against you in a court of law. If…
Read MoreWhat if an Alleged Abuser Violates a Restraining Order
When an alleged victim has a restraining order, order of protection or conditions of bond prohibiting contact against an alleged abuser, that person relies upon it to help keep him or her safe from additional abuse or perceived abuse, which means it fills a very important role in that person’s…
Read MoreFighting False Allegations
Alleged Sex crimes often don’t have eyewitnesses – other than the man and woman involved – to back up either side’s telling of the events, which means they often come down to “he-said, she-said” charges. Sometimes, all it takes is an alleged victim maing an allegation and the sex crimes…
Read MoreWhat Are Gun Charges in SC
South Carolina is one of the most gun-friendly states in the country. There are no overly restrictive laws against the ownership and usage of most firearms in SC. However, it is illegal to own, carry, or use certain firearms, and you must get a permit to carry handguns. The majority…
Read MorePotential Effects of Drug or Other Criminal Charges on a College Student
College students facing drug or other criminal charges can face harsh and life-altering repercussions that go beyond getting expelled or a night in the local jail. Most people don’t realize that a seemingly minor offense can lead to a criminal conviction and a permanent record that can negatively impact their…
Read MoreYour Legal Rights During a Traffic Stop in South Carolina
The police may pull you over for various reasons. Maybe you’ve violated a traffic law or witnessed a crime and didn’t realize it. Maybe your vehicle matches the description of another vehicle that was used in a crime. Or perhaps the police think you’re in trouble and need assistance or…
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 optimum 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 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 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 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 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…
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