Columbia Violent Crimes Attorney
Experienced Assault Defense Attorney Serving Richland County, SC
Aggravated assault is a different type of crime than battery under the law. If you are charged with one of these crimes, you need to know what each means and how one differs from the other.
To speak with our experienced Columbia assault defense lawyers, give us a call at (803) 770-4483 or contact us online today.
What is the Difference Between Assault & Battery?
Here is a brief explanation:
- Battery: Battery means touching someone with the intent to harm them. Punching someone in the face and pushing someone against a wall are examples of battery.
- Aggravated assault: Aggravated assault is the act of causing a serious injury to someone, typically by using a weapon or some other “aggravating” factor.
These charges can be difficult to prove. Witness testimony may be unreliable. Doubt can be raised about the defendant’s actions. As a criminal defense lawyer experienced with violent crime cases, attorney Moses can help defend you against battery and aggravated assault charges.
Penalties for Violent Crimes in South Carolina
Violent crimes in South Carolina carry severe penalties, reflecting the state’s commitment to protecting public safety. Depending on the type and severity of the offense, aggravating factors, and the offender's previous criminal record, penalties differ.
Common Violent Crimes and Their Penalties
- Assault and Battery:
- First-Degree: Up to 10 years in prison.
- Second-Degree: Up to 3 years in prison and fines.
- Third-Degree (Simple Assault): Up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $500.
- Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated Nature (ABHAN): Up to 20 years in prison.
- Manslaughter: Unlawful killing without malice carries penalties of up to 30 years in prison.
- Murder: Conviction can result in life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty in cases with aggravating circumstances, such as multiple victims or murder for hire.
- Armed Robbery: A minimum of 10 years to a maximum of 30 years in prison, with no parole eligibility.
- Kidnapping: Penalties range from a minimum of 10 years to life imprisonment.
- Domestic Violence:
- First-Degree: Up to 10 years in prison.
- Second-Degree: Up to 3 years in prison.
- Third-Degree: Up to 90 days in jail.
Additional Consequences
Violent crime convictions in South Carolina often result in:
- Loss of gun ownership rights.
- Difficulty obtaining employment, housing, or professional licenses.
- Permanent criminal records.
Defending against violent crime charges requires skilled legal representation to ensure a fair trial, challenge evidence, and explore mitigating factors to reduce penalties.
Contact The Law Offices of Marion M. Moses, LLC by dialing (803) 770-4483 or by submitting an online form here for your free initial consultation with our experienced Columbia violent crimes lawyer today.
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Marion is extremely knowledgeable about the law. Super easy to work with and very professional.- Lance H.
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"Could not have been more pleased with the results!!!"
Mr. Moses and his staff went above and beyond for my case!! He was very honest and upfront from the very beginning. I would recommend him anytime! Could not have been more pleased with the results!!!- Pat G. -
Very friendly & professional, he definitely gets the job done. I definitely recommend & will be using him again for future cases!!- Shayy G.
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He fought diligently on my behalf and was always prepared, knowledgeable, and confident. He did extensive research on my case, which was so evident when we were in court. Not only was I impressed with his knowledge of the law, but also his rigorous/exhaust- Emily P.
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Marion also gave us a very studied opinion using his network of legal contacts on a separate case to keep us from wasting money on what would have turned out to be a losing effort.- Shelley K.
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Marion is an incredible attorney and I would recommend him to anyone.- Susan H.
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I highly recommend Marion to everyone. Everything from the initial consult through the dismissal was excellent. Marion and his staff were great with communication, follow-up, and every aspect of the case.- Ted B.
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Everything involving my situation was broken down to me in complete detail and not once was I left in the dark or did not know what was going on. Even though I don’t look forward to needing a lawyer again, if I do then I know exactly who to call.- Mitch T.
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Marian and Elizabeth were highly motivated, caring, and concerned that the legal needs of my loved ones were handled in a concise, lawful and just manner!- Trenay D.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Marion M. Moses, LLC?
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Attorney Marion M. Moses Works With You Directly from Start to Finish
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Committed to Giving Your Case the Genuine, Individualized Attention it Deserves
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Former State Prosecutor
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Extensive Experience Handling Criminal Cases from Both Sides of the Law
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Over 22 Years of Dedicated Legal Experience
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Former President of the South Carolina Association of Criminal Defense Lawyer (SCACDL)