Greenville Felony Defense Lawyer
Facing the criminal justice system is an intimidating prospect on its own, but it can be even more so if you’re facing felony accusations. Criminal charges usually fall into one of two categories: misdemeanors and felonies, with the latter being reserved for the most serious offenses. These can include extremely violent crimes, large-scale theft offenses, major drug offenses, sex crimes, and so much more. Even some normally misdemeanor offenses can be elevated to felony status if they are committed with a deadly weapon or against a victim who is part of a protected class.
If you have been arrested and charged with a felony, you shouldn’t hesitate to seek legal counsel straightaway. At Ryan Holloway Law, LLC, we know how serious your situation is, and we are prepared to help you navigate through it. Attorney Ryan Holloway is a former prosecutor and has been on the other side of the courtroom before. With this experience, he knows how to analyze evidence, examine witnesses, and put courtroom procedures to work for you as opposed to for your accusers. He has handled thousands of cases and provides a highly personalized approach to each client. Attorney Holloway provides exceptional accessibility, which means you will work directly with your attorney when you choose our firm to represent you in your felony case.
Don’t wait! If you have been arrested or charged with a felony, pick up the phone and call Ryan Holloway Law, LLC today for a free case evaluation.
What Is a Felony in South Carolina?
Felony offenses are those that are considered to be particularly egregious, heinous, or reprehensible by the law.
Felonies in South Carolina are further sorted into one of six different classes, designated by a letter from “A” through “F.” They are defined as the following:
- Class A felonies: Punishable by up to 30 years in prison, and includes murder, first-degree sexual misconduct, kidnapping, carjacking, and bank robbery.
- Class B felonies: Punishable by up to 25 years in prison, and includes money laundering, drug trafficking, DWI resulting in a death, and failing to stop at a fatal car accident.
- Class C felonies: Punishable by up to 20 years in prison, and includes aggravated assault and battery, sexual exploitation of a minor, and robbing someone at an ATM.
- Class D felonies: Punishable by up to 15 years in prison, and includes elder abuse, repeat offenses of stalking, second-degree burglary, and common law robbery.
- Class E felonies: Punishable by up to 10 years in prison, and includes malicious injury to animals, malicious injury to property, blackmail, bribing a public official (or accepting a bribe), and first-degree assault and battery.
- Class F felonies: Punishable by up to 5 years in prison, and includes first-offense stalking, perjury, falsifying tax returns, and involuntary manslaughter.
These are just a few of the offenses that could be charged as a felony, and the full list is significantly more extensive. Likewise, some offenses are “wobblers,” meaning they could be charged as a misdemeanor in some cases but as felonies in others, depending on aggravating or mitigating circumstances. It’s important to consult with an attorney to determine if your charges are accurate based on the severity of your offense—some prosecutors will over-charge offenders, and that could lead to offenders being acquitted if the case goes to trial.
Our Commitment to You
Guided by Integrity, Driven by Compassion
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Accessible Counsel When You Need It MostLegal battles can be intimidating, but with virtual consultations, we make it easier to start your defense journey. Our focus is on making high-quality legal support accessible to you from day one.
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Relentless Advocacy for Every ClientWe believe everyone deserves a vigorous defense. Our team is committed to understanding your unique situation and tirelessly fighting for the best possible outcome.
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Personalized Guidance with No Initial CostUnderstanding the challenges you face, we offer free consultations to provide clarity on your case and outline a path forward—no obligation, just honest, straightforward advice.
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Proven Insights from a Former ProsecutorOur attorney brings invaluable experience from his years as a former prosecutor, giving you an insider’s perspective on how the other side operates. This knowledge helps build stronger, more strategic defenses.
South Carolina Felony Offense Penalties
If you are convicted of a felony offense, your life could change dramatically. A lengthy prison sentence is almost unavoidable for a conviction, including what could amount to up to three decades in detention. This means time kept away from loved ones, which could dramatically impact your family life or your friendships.
Felony offenses can also carry other potential consequences, including:
- Large fines
- Victim restitution for losses or damage caused
- Mandatory court-ordered programs (anger management, alcohol education, etc.)
- Loss of the right to vote
- Loss of the right to own a firearm
- Loss of employment opportunities
- Loss of ability to live in certain accommodations
However, not all felonies in South Carolina will stop at 30 years in prison. According to South Carolina S.C. Code § 17-25-45(A)(1), sentencing courts may impose life sentences (without the chance for parole) for those who have been convicted of a “most serious offense,” those who have one or more prior convictions of a “most serious offense” (including an out-of-state conviction for an offense that would qualify as a “most serious offense” in South Carolina), or those who have two or more offenses for a “serious offense.” The definitions and list of offenses that qualify as a “serious offense” or a “most serious offense” are also outlined in this statute.
When you are accused of a felony, you can’t afford to take things lightly. Exercise your right to remain silent and seek counsel from an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Contact Ryan Holloway Law, LLC today.