Serving Domestic Violence Stats in South Carolina
South Carolina ranks sixth in the nation for domestic violence occurrences, with over 25,000 incidents being reported to the police each year. If a family member or anyone in your household accuses you of physical harm or causing him or her fear of physical harm, you may be charged with domestic violence. If you have been accused of domestic violence, you may feel that you are destined to spend time in prison.
When you hire our Conway domestic violence lawyer, you can rest assured that Attorney Brad C. Richardson will handle your case from start to finish, providing exceptional representation each step of the way.
What is Domestic Violence?
The South Carolina legislature defines domestic violence as inflicting physical harm or threatening to harm a household member, causing a fear of imminent danger. Acts of domestic violence may include hitting, slapping, kicking, punching, or strangulation. Domestic violence is not limited to physical acts but can also include verbal abuse, such as name-calling or shaming another.
Under SC Code §16-25-10 (3), a household member includes a spouse, former spouse, persons who have a child together, or a male and female who live together or formerly lived together.
Domestic Violence Fatalities in SC
In 2022, the Palmetto State experienced the following in relation to domestic violence homicides:
- 81% were women
- 19% were men
- 48% were Black
- 46% were Caucasian
- 6% were Hispanics
- In 28 incidents, the victim was shot
- In 5 incidents, the victim was stabbed
- In one incident, the victim was strangled
Domestic Violence Between Sexual Partners
It is estimated that roughly 10 million people in the United States experience domestic violence each year, with one in four women and one in nine men sustaining abuse. A recent survey revealed that 42.3% of women and 29.2% of men in South Carolina experience physical violence, sexual violence, or stalking performed by an intimate partner.
Benefits of Hiring a Conway Domestic Violence Lawyer
If you are facing allegations of domestic abuse, a domestic violence lawyer can help explain the charges brought against you along with your legal options. A criminal defense lawyer will go over the legal proceedings in which you will be required to appear so that you are aware of what to expect.
Additionally, a domestic violence lawyer will build a legal defense that persuades the jury in your favor. A potential defense to a domestic violence charge may include self-defense or false accusations. A domestic violence attorney may also question the admissibility of certain evidence. For example, if evidence was collected because of an unreasonable search of your home (a Fourth Amendment violation), the information retrieved will be inadmissible at trial.
If none of these defenses apply, then your lawyer will negotiate with the state to get you a lesser sentence. When you work with Attorney Brad C. Richardson, he will do everything within his power to sway a jury to acquit you on all charges.
Speak with a Conway Domestic Violence Lawyer
If you have been accused of domestic abuse, obtaining skilled counsel is essential. In working with an experienced Conway domestic violence lawyer, you are ensuring that your rights are protected. Attorney Brad C. Richardson understands the severity of a domestic violence charge, and he will work with you to obtain the best possible case outcome. To learn how our office can help, contact us online or by phone to schedule your complimentary consultation.