The stakes for a criminal charge are significant. An experienced Mount Pleasant criminal lawyer could be instrumental in protecting your rights at every stage of criminal proceedings.
A criminal conviction could result in fines, imprisonment, and a permanent mark on your criminal record that any prospective employers will be able to view. Some criminal convictions also have specific collateral consequences, such as loss of driving privileges, mandatory sex offender registration, or a permanent prohibition on possessing firearms. To avoid or minimize the potential of these unwanted repercussions, it is highly advised to consult a knowledgeable attorney familiar with these cases.
Types of Crimes in Mount Pleasant
While some crimes carry the potential for especially severe penalties, any conviction can create a permanent criminal record, leading to unwanted ramifications for the future personal and professional lives of individuals. Some common criminal offenses that individuals often face in the state include:
- Alcohol and drug-related offenses, ranging from DUI to drug trafficking
- Assault offenses, including domestic violence assault and assault of a high and aggravated nature
- Property crimes, such as theft, robbery, and arson
- Violent crimes, including murder, and manslaughter
- Fraud offenses, such as embezzlement, identity theft, and various white-collar crimes
As a conviction on any criminal charge can have severe consequences, individuals facing criminal charges may wish to consult a criminal defense attorney in Mount Pleasant for advice and guidance.
Collateral Consequences of a Criminal Record
Most people know that if they are convicted of a criminal offense, the court could order them to pay fines, complete community service, serve time in jail or prison, or serve a term of probation. What many people fail to realize, however, is that the collateral consequences of a criminal conviction can go far beyond a jail sentence and a fine. If the judge places someone on probation, for example, they will likely be subject to various conditions and requirements, many of which are quite restrictive, such as undergoing random drug and alcohol screens, maintaining employment, paying regular fees, and attending meetings with probation officers.
Specific criminal offenses also carry the potential for additional penalties, depending on the nature and the severity of the crime. Convictions for DUI and related offenses may result in the loss of licenses. A felony conviction can remove certain civil rights, such as the right to vote, hold public office, or possess firearms. A domestic violence conviction, even if a misdemeanor, could also prohibit individuals from possessing firearms.
Any conviction could also impact a defendant’s ability to find jobs and pursue some careers. Some felony drug convictions may impair the ability of individuals to obtain federal financial aid to attend college. Consulting an accomplished attorney in Mount Pleasant may allow individuals to avoid some of the worst outcomes of a criminal conviction.
Contact a Mount Pleasant Criminal Attorney Now
If law enforcement officials have accused you of a crime, it is highly advised to seek out a Mount Pleasant criminal lawyer for advice. You should not hesitate to educate yourself about the criminal charges and the potential outcomes that you may be facing. Consulting legal counsel for guidance in your case may be a significant factor in your ability to improve the results of the charges against you. Taking the steps necessary to defend yourself may be instrumental in altering the outcome of your case. Call our office now to learn more.
