Know your legal rights. The drinking age in South Carolina is 21. That sounds simple enough. However, the laws surrounding underage drinking can get much more complex, depending on the situation. To protect your rights, you need to understand what is and isn't illegal. You also need to know what the police are and aren't...
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Criminal Defense Attorney Columbia, South Carolina
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Mistakes cops make when making DUI stops & arrests
Police officers are trained to look for drunk drivers, especially during holiday periods, late at night or other times when people are most likely to have been drinking. More specifically, police are trained on how to observe your behavior during a traffic stop and look for enough evidence to make an arrest if they think...
Read More »What to know about self-defense laws
In South Carolina, you have the right to defend yourself from a violent attacker. There are certain rules that apply that don't grant the right to harm someone who poses a non-violent threat or when violent situations can be diffused. It's important that you understand what protections are available under South Carolina's Protection of Persons...
Read More »What kind of evidence do police look for when making a DUI arrest?
Any kind of traffic violation, even if committed unknowingly, can give a police officer reason to pull you over. If a police officer suspects that you have been drinking and driving, any evidence you give can be used against you in court, even if you didn't break any laws. South Carolina DUI defense attorney Matt...
Read More »How can my driving under the influence case be thrown out?
If you were just arrested and charged with DUI, you may not be fully aware of your legal rights. A first time DUI charge can be harsh in South Carolina. You could face: 2-30 days in jail A $400 fine A 6-month license suspension Just because you were arrested and charged with DUI, that doesn't...
Read More »South Carolina Police & Prosecutors Focus On Repeat Offenders
Criminal defense lawyer Matt Bodman reveals what you need to know Being charged and convicted of a criminal charge is a serious legal matter that can dramatically change your life. That’s why South Carolina’s recent efforts to focus on incarcerating people who have previously been convicted of a crime should matter to everyone who respects...
Read More »What should I do if I'm stopped at a DUI checkpoint this 4th of July?
This year's 4th of July celebration will look eerily different due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Communities across South Carolina have already canceled their fireworks in order to help prevent the spread of the virus. Nonetheless, countless South Carolina residents will celebrate America's independence by congregating with friends and family. Of course, this also means consuming...
Read More »What are my legal options if I was charged with domestic violence?
South Carolina's stay-at-home order (Executive Order No. 2020-21) was issued by Governor Henry McMaster to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The social distancing guidelines urging residents to stay home — unless they must travel for essential purposes — has saved countless lives. These safety measures didn't come without consequences, however. Many adults are either...
Read More »How can an attorney help me beat a DUI charge?
Being pulled over by police unexpectedly can be a frightening situation, especially if you weren't aware of the reason for being stopped. It could have been anything from a broken taillight to a minor traffic infraction. If a police officer suspects that you have been drinking, you may be probed for further evidence. It's critical...
Read More »Can I still be arrested and charged with DUI if my BAC was under 0.08 percent?
Under South Carolina law, it's illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of 0.08 percent or greater. Some people are under the impression that having a BAC below the legal limit is safe. Police can't arrest them. This is a dangerous assumption that could potentially lead to a DUI arrest. Even if...
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