When facing criminal charges in South Carolina, it’s essential to understand the difference between misdemeanors and felonies. Whether your charges are classified as a misdemeanor or a felony, it is crucial to retain a criminal defense attorney. There are no criminal charges so minor that they can’t negatively impact your employment, ability to pass background checks, or reputation in the community. If you’ve been charged with a crime in Columbia, Lexington, or anywhere else in South Carolina, understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions about your defense strategy.
Misdemeanors are generally considered less serious offenses but can still result in significant consequences, including jail time, fines, and a criminal record. In South Carolina, misdemeanors are prosecuted in two types of courts: General Sessions Court and Summary Court. Very serious misdemeanors are heard in General Sessions Court, where they are prosecuted by either the Solicitor’s Office or the Attorney General’s Office. Examples of these more serious misdemeanors include second offense DUI, second-degree domestic violence, possession of controlled substances, and leaving the scene of an accident involving an attended vehicle.
Other misdemeanors are prosecuted in Summary Court, which includes Magistrate and Municipal Courts. These offenses are generally less severe but can still impact your life significantly. Examples of misdemeanors handled in Summary Court include traffic violations, first offense DUI, third-degree domestic violence, shoplifting, simple possession of marijuana, and trespassing. While the penalties for these offenses are typically less severe than those in General Sessions Court, they can still result in jail time, fines, and a criminal record.
Felonies, on the other hand, are the most serious criminal offenses in South Carolina. All felonies are prosecuted in General Sessions Court by either the Solicitor’s Office or the Attorney General’s Office. Felonies carry harsher penalties, including long-term imprisonment and substantial fines, and can result in the loss of certain civil rights, such as voting and gun ownership. Examples of felonies include murder, offenses related to child molestation, burglary, and aggravated assault. These crimes are prosecuted aggressively, and convictions can lead to lengthy prison sentences and lifelong consequences.
The main differences between misdemeanors and felonies in South Carolina lie in the severity of penalties, the long-term impact on your life, and the courts that handle these cases. Felonies result in more severe punishments, including longer prison sentences and significant fines, and have a greater impact on your civil rights and future opportunities. Misdemeanors, while less severe, can still carry consequences that affect your personal and professional life. There are some crimes classified as misdemeanors under South Carolina law which can still carry several years in prison (for example Domestic Violence 2nd degree carries a maximum sentence of three years).
If you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges in Columbia, Lexington, or anywhere else in South Carolina, having an experienced criminal defense lawyer is crucial. The Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, has over 20 years of experience helping clients navigate the complexities of South Carolina’s criminal justice system. Attorney James Snell understands the impact criminal charges can have on your life and is dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome.
Whether you’re dealing with a misdemeanor in Summary Court or a serious felony in General Sessions Court, the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, is here to help. We will thoroughly examine the facts of your case, challenge weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and develop a strategic defense tailored to your situation.
Contact the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, today to schedule a free consultation. We represent clients charged with misdemeanor and felony cases in Columbia, Lexington, and throughout South Carolina. Call us at (803) 359-3301 to learn how we can help you protect your rights and your future.