What’s the Difference Between a Misdemeanor & a Felony?

by Michael L. Brown, JR. | Mar 28, 2018 | Criminal Defense

While all criminal charges are serious, the type of punishment you may face depends on how the charge is classified. Was your charge a misdemeanor or a felony? The criminal lawyers in Rock Hill, SC at the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. want you to understand the differences between these two types of charges.

What is a felony?

A felony is the most serious criminal charge an individual can receive. If you’re found guilty, you may face a prison sentence of a year or more. Criminal charges that are considered felonies include, but are not limited to, murder, kidnapping, rape, arson, and burglary. A criminal attorney in South Carolina will be able to explain your charges and the potential consequences.

What is a misdemeanor?

A misdemeanor is less serious than a felony. If convicted and sentenced to time in prison, misdemeanors usually carry sentences of a year or less. These charges typically allow room for better plea bargains. However, you should still do all you can to make sure your side of the story is heard. A criminal lawyer in South Carolina is ready to represent you and fight for the best outcome in your case.

When you need a criminal attorney, call the experienced criminal lawyers in Rock Hill, SC at the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown Jr.

What Are the Different Types of Criminal Charges?

by Michael L. Brown, JR. | Mar 14, 2018 | Criminal Defense

In a perfect world, no one would ever have to deal with a criminal charge. Unfortunately, situations do happen and charges are filed. When you’re facing a criminal charge, regardless of how simple or serious it is, you need to know exactly what you’re dealing with. Criminal lawyers in Rock Hill, SC like those at the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. want you to know about the different types of criminal charges:

DUI: DUI charges are given to individuals who have been caught operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These charges are serious and can result in fines, a suspended license, or even jail time.
Drug charges: You can be arrested and charged if you’re found in possession of even a small amount of illegal or non-prescribed drugs. Jail time and/or penalties can be expected with drug charges.
Violent crimes: Violent crimes include, but are not limited to assault, battery, murder, threats, and assault with weaponry. These are serious charges that can lead to jail time if you’re convicted.
Sex crimes: All criminal charges should be handled by a criminal attorney, but this is especially true with sex crimes. Given the life-changing nature of these charges, you should always seek experienced legal counsel.
Juvenile charges: Young people facing criminal charges are often given some leeway due to their age and decision-making skills. That doesn’t mean the charges aren’t serious. Failing to work with a criminal defense attorney in South Carolina could have long-lasting repercussions on a young life.

Contact the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. when you need experienced criminal lawyers in Rock Hill, SC for these or any other types of criminal charges.

4 Things to Do if You’ve Been Falsely Accused of a Crime

by Michael L. Brown, JR. | Feb 28, 2018 | Criminal Defense

Criminal charges are serious – and scary. This is especially true when you feel that you’ve been falsely accused. Even though you may be scared about what’s to come, you can’t let your emotions get the best of you during this time. Instead, you need to take action. As you’re processing everything that’s happened, you should start taking steps to hire the right criminal defense attorney in South Carolina as quickly as you can. The Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. recommend taking the following steps.

Determine your needs. Who brought the charges and in which court system will your case be heard? Your charges will determine whether you need a criminal defense attorney who’s able to represent you in local, state, or federal courts.
Talk with your attorney. Once you’ve hired the best attorney for your case, keep in close communication with them, especially if you remember any additional details that may affect your defense.
Ask questions. Your attorney is there to help you and to make you feel as comfortable as possible about your case. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, especially about any parts of the process you don’t understand.
Leave it to your criminal lawyer. Leave any and all actions in the hands of the professionals. You should only hire a criminal lawyer who will do what’s in your best interests and whose legal advice you can trust.

Call the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. if you feel you’ve been wrongfully accused of a crime. Our attorneys are here to fight for you – and for the truth.

How to Find the Right Criminal Defense Attorney for Your Case

by Michael L. Brown, JR. | Feb 15, 2018 | Criminal Defense

Tips to Find The Right Criminal Defense Lawyer in Rock Hill, SC

Being charged with a crime is truly a lifechanging moment. In many instances, everything hinges on hiring the very best criminal defense lawyer to help you with your case. How do you go about finding a criminal lawyer in South Carolina who will make sure your rights are protected? Here are some tips from the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown Jr.:

Do your homework– Make a list of firms that offer criminal law services. For serious criminal charges, it’s important to look beyond the lawyers in your hometown so you can get the best legal counsel possible. Our attorneys represent clients from all over South Carolina.
Experience matters – Experience plays a major factor in winning criminal cases. The more experience a lawyer has, the stronger the defense they’ll be able to provide.
Get referrals – Talk to people who have hired the law firms you’re considering. Ask about their experiences with the attorneys and staff, as well as the outcomes of their cases
Contact the attorneys – Narrow your choices down to the two or three criminal lawyers who seem to be the best qualified. Contact each with a list of your concerns and questions, as well as all the relevant details about your case.

When you need an experienced criminal defense attorney in South Carolina who’ll fight for you, call the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. in Rock Hill, SC. You can rely on us to make sure the truth is heard in your case.

Welcome to the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr.

by Michael L. Brown, JR. | Jan 2, 2018 | Criminal Defense

If you’re in a situation where you need a lawyer, choosing the right person to represent you can make all the difference. If you don’t choose wisely, you could miss the opportunity to get the best possible outcome in your case. In many instances, experience makes all the difference. That’s why so many people who are looking for South Carolina attorneys choose the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr.

Criminal attorney Michael Brown has practiced law in York County since 1983. During that time, he’s represented clients in every court level in South Carolina and the United States except the United States Supreme Court. In 2016, Mr. Brown hired Zach Merritt as an associate attorney for the firm. Together, they provide skilled counsel for their clients.

Criminal law makes up a large part of the practice. Throughout their careers, both Mr. Brown and Mr. Merritt have demonstrated their commitment to protecting the rights of the accused. From DUI charges to death penalty cases, our attorneys work with people who’ve been charged with all types of crimes. We’re dedicated to making sure your story is heard in the courts.

We also assist clients who need an attorney for divorce, child support, child custody, adoption, and other family law matters. Additionally, we provide personal injury representation for those who’ve been injured through no fault of their own.

Contact the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. to discuss your case or to learn more about any of our areas of practice. Free consultations are available.

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