Sumter Felony Lawyer

Sumter Felony Attorney

Facing any criminal charge is a daunting experience, especially when the charge qualifies as a felony. Most crimes in South Carolina are designated as misdemeanors or felonies, with the latter incurring much harsher penalties. If you or a loved one is charged with any felony in Sumter, it is vital to exercise your right to legal representation and speak with an experienced Sumter felony lawyer as quickly as possible.

Defense Counsel for Felony Charges in Sumter, SC

The Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III provides criminal defense representation for a wide range of cases in Sumter, including both misdemeanor charges and felonies. Facing a felony charge is life-changing; the outcome of your case may entail severe penalties that negatively impact you for years to come, and it is natural to want to defend yourself as effectively as possible. For that, you need an experienced Sumter felony lawyer on your side.

Our criminal defense firm can meet with you immediately following arrest and booking to help you begin building your defense. Whether you are the victim of mistaken identity or a wrongful accusation, you have been charged with a crime you did not commit, or you did break the law and need help mitigating penalties, we are prepared to assist you with every facet of your defense. You need to contact us right away after arrest and booking to ensure the optimal outcome for your case.

Building Your Defense Against Felony Charges in Sumter

In every criminal case, the prosecution has the burden of proving the defendant’s guilt; the defendant is not necessarily responsible for proving they are innocent because the criminal justice system of the United States hinges on the concept that a defendant is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. However, being proactive in your defense is an effective strategy that can help you reach the most positive conclusion to your case.

The Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III can provide comprehensive defense counsel for a wide range of felony charges, including felony-level driving under the influence (DUI), drug-related offenses, violent offenses, and more. We can ensure that your rights have been respected in all your interactions with the police and that you receive a fair trial. Our goal is acquittal or case dismissal if possible or negotiating a lighter sentence if necessary.

One of the most important things you can do to enhance your defense in any felony criminal case is to exercise your constitutional rights during an arrest. The Fifth Amendment protects against self-incrimination, meaning you are not required to answer questions from the arresting officers or act as a witness against yourself in any capacity. The Sixth Amendment ensures your right to legal counsel and a speedy trial.

Your felony lawyer in Sumter will help you determine your most viable defensive strategies for your upcoming case, and they may be able to develop a strategy you would not have considered on your own. Whether you are facing an unjust charge for a crime you did not commit, or you broke the law and need help mitigating your sentence, you can rely on the team at the Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III to defend you.

FAQs About Sumter, SC Felony Laws

Why Should I Hire a Sumter Felony Lawyer?

You should hire a Sumter felony lawyer because exercising your right to legal representation in a criminal case is the most effective way to protect yourself in this situation. If you did not commit the offense, the right attorney can help you prove your innocence and clear your name. If you did break the law, having an experienced Sumter felony lawyer on your side can help you secure a lighter sentence than you otherwise could have expected.

What Is the Standard of Proof in a Felony Criminal Case?

In a felony criminal case, the standard of proof is beyond a reasonable doubt. This means that in order to secure a conviction, the prosecution must use evidence and witness testimony to prove that a defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, meaning that a reasonable person could find no room to doubt whether the defendant committed the offense in question. The defense attorney aims to prevent them from meeting this standard of proof.

When Should I Contact a Sumter Felony Lawyer?

You should contact a Sumter felony lawyer at your first opportunity to make phone calls following arrest and booking. It is vital to remain silent and not to answer any questions from the police until you speak with a defense attorney. Anything you say to the police will be included in their report and may be used against you later. The sooner you secure defense counsel, the sooner your attorney can start creating a defense strategy for you.

What Is Plea Bargaining in a Criminal Case?

In a criminal case, plea bargaining is a process that unfolds between the prosecution and the defense prior to formal courtroom proceedings. If the prosecution believes they have more than enough evidence to secure a conviction, they may attempt to conserve court resources by offering a plea deal. In exchange for a lighter sentence and/or reduced charges, the defendant enters an immediate guilty plea.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Sumter Felony Lawyer?

The cost to hire a Sumter felony lawyer will depend on their billing policy. The majority of criminal defense attorneys in Sumter operate on an hourly basis, meaning they will charge the client for all time spent working on their case. Some attorneys have different billing policies, so it is crucial that you fully understand a prospective attorney’s billing policy before agreeing to their representation so you know what to expect.

The Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III has successfully defended many clients from felony prosecution in Sumter, and we can put this experience to work in your upcoming case. Our firm can meet with you immediately following arrest and booking to help you start building your defense against the charges that have been filed against you, so contact us today and schedule your consultation with a Sumter felony lawyer.