How Is a Criminal Case Processed in the South Carolina Courts?

When you’ve been charged with a crime, you have to deal with many things all at once. One of your chief concerns will be understanding how your criminal case will be processed through the South Carolina courts. The South Carolina criminal lawyers at the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. are here to walk you through the steps.

Four Steps For Criminal Case Process in the South Carolina Courts

1. Jail and Bail

If you’re arrested for a crime, you’ll be taken to jail. If your charges don’t carry a life sentence, you’ll qualify for bail. Bail is set by the magistrate judge at the jail.

2. Motion filed

Next, your criminal lawyer will file a motion to the court. This motion will demand that the court require the law enforcement officers and solicitor to present the evidence against you. Once your criminal attorneys have the evidence in hand, they’ll be able to start building your case.

3. Court appearances

Your first court appearance will set the date for your case to be tried. The second court appearance is where you will enter a plea or state that you want your case to go to trial.

4. Final Disposition

Your criminal case will be concluded through either a dismissal of the charges, participation in a pre-trial intervention program, a guilty plea, or a trial.

Hiring a criminal defense attorney gives you the best chance at winning your case. The criminal lawyers at the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. are here to guide you through the entire process. Request a consultation today by calling our Rock Hill, SC office.

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