You may feel overwhelmed and frightened if you face criminal charges in Charleston, SC. Your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line. But you don’t have to go through this challenging time alone. The skilled criminal defense lawyers at Crantford Meehan Attorneys at Law will stand by your side, protect your constitutional rights, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

At the law offices of Crantford Meehan Attorneys at Law, a leading criminal defense law firm in South Carolina, we understand that criminal cases are unique. Cookie-cutter legal strategies simply won’t cut it. That’s why we take the time to get to know you and hear your side of the story. By understanding your specific circumstances, challenges, and goals, we can craft a personalized defense strategy to secure the desired results.

Our criminal defense team, led by experienced criminal lawyers William C. Crantford and Jerry A. Meehan, Jr., knows Charleston County and South Carolina law inside and out. We have successfully defended clients against a wide range of criminal offenses, from misdemeanors to serious felonies, including drug trafficking, criminal sexual conduct, and attempted murder, in both state and federal courts.

Call Us: (843) 773-4430

What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Does

Our criminal law practice areas cover the full spectrum of criminal matters, from investigation and arrest through trial, sentencing, and appeals. Whether you face misdemeanor or felony charges such as drug offenses, domestic violence, or DUI charges in state and federal courts, our experienced criminal defense attorneys are ready to fight for you.

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What Should I Do if I Am Arrested in Charleston, South Carolina?

Being arrested is a scary and stressful experience. The actions you take in the immediate aftermath can significantly impact the outcome of your case. If police arrest you in Charleston, SC, following criminal accusations, remember these important tips:

Exercise your right to remain silent. You are not required to answer questions or give a statement to police. Inform the officer that you wish to remain silent and request a criminal defense attorney.

Do not consent to any searches. If officers ask to search your person, vehicle, or home, verbally state that you do not consent. If they perform a search anyway, do not physically resist. Your criminal defense lawyer can challenge the search later in federal or state courts, especially if it involves illegal conduct.

Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The sooner you involve an experienced criminal defense lawyer, the better your chances of achieving a fair trial and receiving legal guidance.

Remain silent until you have consulted with your attorney. Your lawyer will advise you on the best course of action and be present for any questioning.

Be honest with your lawyer. The attorney-client privilege means that anything you tell your lawyer will remain confidential. In order to mount the strongest possible defense, your attorney needs to know the full story.

Our Areas Of Practice a full service law firm

Fake ID Defense Lawyers
Defective Road Accident
Dealing With a Head Injury After a Car Accident

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Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Lawyers

Selecting the right criminal defense lawyer is one of your most important decisions. Your attorney will be your advocate and advisor throughout the legal process, whether you face misdemeanor or felony charges in state and federal courts. At Crantford Meehan Attorneys at Law, we are committed to providing the highest quality defense representation to every client. Here are a few reasons why we believe we are the right choice:

Unmatched Trial Experience: Our attorneys are Gerry Spence’s acclaimed Trial Lawyers College graduates. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, and have the courtroom skills to argue your case powerfully before a judge and jury when needed.
Collaborative Approach: We work closely with you at every stage of your case, taking the time to answer your questions, explain your options, and keep you informed.
Commitment to Clients: Our law firm is known for providing personal attention and going the extra mile for the people we represent. We are responsive, accessible, and focused on achieving the best possible results for your unique situation.

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(843) 832-1120

Criminal Defense Practice Areas

Our Charleston criminal defense attorneys handle the full spectrum of criminal cases, including:

DUI Defense: If you or a loved one has been arrested for DUI, or feel that a DUI arrest may be forthcoming, you should seek an attorney to fight this for you.
Drug Possession: If you are charged with possession of drugs in Charleston, it is important to have a Criminal Defense Attorney advise you.
Probation Violation: If you’ve been accused of violating your probation stipulations, don’t wait. Contact an attorney right away.
Traffic Violations: If you are charged with a traffic violation in Charleston, South Carolina, our firm can help.
BUI Defense: If you are charged with Boating Under the Influence while operating a watercraft on the water in South Carolina, you will be facing a serious crime.
Fake I.D. Defense: It doesn’t have to be the end of the world if you get in trouble with the law for having a fraudulent ID.

$1,272,800 Single Car Collision
$125,000 Car collision
$100,000 Car collision
$400,000 Pedestrian v. Car Collision
$130,000 Single Car Collision

Why You Need An Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer

Trying to handle criminal charges on your own is a huge risk. The criminal justice system is complex and high stakes; prosecutors are not on your side. Hiring an experienced Charleston criminal defense attorney is the most critical thing you can do to protect your rights and pursue a positive outcome.

Facing the power and resources of the government on your own puts you at a severe disadvantage. Having a skilled attorney levels the playing field and gives you the best chance of beating the charges or minimizing the consequences. Most importantly, your criminal lawyer will stand by your side and be a committed advocate during a difficult and stressful time.

SERVING YOU 24/7

(843) 832-1120

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT US

“Helped me through the hardest time in my life “

Crantford Meehan has helped me extremely through the hardest time in my life and has gotten me such an AMAZING recovery after my accident. I highly recommend them to any and everyone I know. Even after my own mother got into an auto accident, they have helped us both successfully move forward with our lives...

Harleigh Tenio
My ‘go to’ for legal help.

Attorney William Crantford has been great! He is my “go to” for legal help.

David Childress
Mr. Meehan was very professional.

Mr. Meehan was very professional. He made sure to address all of the questions and concerns that I had while working with him. I would absolutely recommend Crantford Meehan to anyone looking for an attorney who works hard to get you the best possible outcome.

Nikki M.

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The Legal Process in Charleston

Being accused of committing a crime thrusts you into an unfamiliar and daunting legal world. Understanding what to expect can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty you may feel. While every case follows its own path, here is a general outline of the criminal justice process in South Carolina:

Investigation: Law enforcement investigates suspected criminal activity, gathering evidence like witness statements, documents, photos/video footage, etc. If officers believe they have probable cause, they may make an arrest or seek an arrest warrant from a judge.
Arrest: Upon arrest, the accused is taken into custody, booked, and usually held in jail until a bond hearing. You should exercise your right to remain silent and request a criminal defense lawyer at this stage.
Bond Hearing: Usually within 24 hours of arrest, a judge will hold a hearing to decide whether to set bond (release the defendant pending trial). The judge considers factors like flight risk and danger to the community.
Preliminary Hearing: This is a pre-trial hearing where a judge determines if probable cause exists to send felony charges to the grand jury.
Grand Jury: In felony cases, a grand jury will hear evidence and decide whether to formally charge the defendant.
Arraignment: The first court appearance in the trial court, where the defendant receives formal notice of the charges and enters an initial plea.
Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file various motions challenging the prosecution’s case.
Plea Bargaining: In some cases, the prosecutor may offer a plea deal to resolve the matter without a trial.
Trial: If your case is not resolved through dismissal or a plea deal, it will proceed to jury trial. The prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on the criminal penalties for the offense.
Appeal: If you are found guilty at trial, you can appeal the verdict to a higher court.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I’m arrested in Charleston?

If you are arrested in Charleston, you should exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not provide any statements to the police without your lawyer present. Contact a Charleston criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you are treated fairly throughout the process.
Which parties could be held liable for a criminal offense in Charleston?

In criminal cases, liability is generally assigned to the accused person. However, in some cases, parties such as employers, third-party witnesses, or others who played a role in the crime can be held accountable. A Charleston criminal defense lawyer will investigate all aspects of your case to identify potential defendants.
How long do I have to file a criminal appeal in Charleston?

In South Carolina, you generally have 10 days after your conviction to file an appeal. However, the appeal process can be complex, so it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you meet all deadlines.
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Charleston?

At Crantford Meehan Attorneys at Law, our criminal defense attorneys work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. We are committed to providing high-quality defense representation at an affordable cost.