Violent Crimes

Violent Crime Defense in Charleston

Individualized Defense for Serious Criminal Allegations

Serious criminal allegations demand a defense strategy built around the specific charge, evidence, and circumstances. Seibert Law Firm provides criminal defense representation for people facing violent-crime allegations in Charleston and the surrounding region. We give each client personalized attention, develop a tailored plan of action, and use strategic advocacy to protect their rights and freedom.

Attorney Kevin M. Seibert, Esq. and Attorney Rebecca A. Seibert, Esq. are members of the South Carolina and Georgia Bar Associations. We explain the immediate legal issues and help clients make informed decisions as their cases proceed.

Call (843) 428-6360 to request a free case evaluation with a violent crime attorney in Charleston.

How State Law Defines a Violent Crime

South Carolina Code Section 16-1-60 defines violent crimes through an enumerated list. An offense receives that designation when the law specifically includes it, not simply because the alleged conduct was serious or harmful. The precise offense named in the charging documents matters.

Offenses included in the statutory list include:

Murder, attempted murder, and voluntary manslaughter
Kidnapping, armed robbery, attempted armed robbery, and carjacking
Specified criminal sexual conduct offenses
Assault and battery with intent to kill and assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature
First- and second-degree arson
First- and second-degree burglary
Specified domestic violence offenses

In 2026, lawmakers added discharging a firearm at or into a dwelling, building, structure, vehicle, or other conveyance to the violent-crime list. Because Section 16-1-60 contains numerous offenses and specific statutory references, we must review the charge’s exact wording to determine whether the classification applies.

Defense Strategies for Violent-Crime Allegations

Our defense work includes felony allegations involving:

Burglary
Domestic violence
Homicide
Sexual violence
Weapons possession

We also represent people wrongfully accused of domestic violence-related offenses. Our analysis begins with the charge and the prosecution’s evidence rather than assumptions about what occurred.

A defense strategy depends on the surrounding facts, witness accounts, police conduct, and available physical or digital evidence. We examine how law enforcement gathered evidence, whether witness statements are consistent, and whether the prosecution can establish each required element of the charged offense.

Defenses to Assault Allegations

Potential defenses to assault allegations may include self-defense, lack of intent, false accusations, or an alibi. Self-defense generally refers to the lawful use of force in response to an imminent threat, but its availability depends on the facts and governing law. An alibi places the accused somewhere else when the alleged conduct occurred.

We evaluate the evidence before deciding which issues should shape the defense, including the sequence of events, the credibility of those involved, and whether the available proof supports the accusation.

Discuss Your Charges with Our Defense Attorneys

A free case evaluation is an opportunity to discuss the allegation and possible next steps. We offer multiple financing options and accept cash, checks, and major credit cards. Online payment is also available. Contact us by phone or through our contact form to get started.

Contact Seibert Law Firm by calling (843) 428-6360 to request your free case evaluation.

Felony & Misdemeanor Classifications

A violent-crime designation and a felony or misdemeanor classification are separate parts of how state law defines an offense. Section 16-1-60 determines whether an offense is statutorily classified as violent. The statute governing the specific offense establishes its elements and potential punishment.

Felony classifications range from Class A through Class F. Class A felonies carry up to 30 years of incarceration, while Class F felonies carry up to five years. The applicable statute controls the classification and sentencing exposure for the exact charge, so these broad categories shouldn’t be treated as a charge-specific prediction.

The state divides classified misdemeanors into three categories. Class A misdemeanors carry maximum incarceration terms of up to three years, Class B misdemeanors up to two years, and Class C misdemeanors up to one year. Misdemeanor charges carrying more than 30 days of potential incarceration or a fine above $500 are heard in the Court of General Sessions.

The Charleston Court Process After an Arrest

Charleston County is part of South Carolina’s 9th Judicial Circuit. After an arrest, the charge and the court’s jurisdiction determine which court handles the initial bond proceeding. A bond hearing addresses release conditions while the case is pending, and the decision depends on the applicable law and circumstances presented.

When Magistrate Court has jurisdiction, the first bond hearing occurs there to set bond conditions and a first appearance date. If Magistrate Court lacks jurisdiction over the charge, the hearing takes place in the Court of General Sessions. A magistrate can’t set bond for capital offenses or offenses punishable by life imprisonment. A Circuit Court Judge must make that determination.

The Court of General Sessions handles adult felony criminal cases in Charleston County and has jurisdiction over certain misdemeanors. A violent crime lawyer in Charleston can review the filed charge, explain which court has authority, and prepare the accused for the proceedings ahead.

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