However, many people think that misdemeanors don’t matter because they’re misdemeanors. Nevertheless, a conviction of any magistrate or municipal offense can seriously affect employment opportunities, college aid, or housing opportunities immediately or in the future. You are entitled to the same Constitutional rights in civil and magistrate court as you are in any other criminal court.
An additional advantage of hiring a local and experienced criminal defense attorney in magistrate or municipal courts is often the attorney can appear instead of the client for required appearances. Criminal cases in magistrate or municipal courts tend to move relatively quickly, so it is imperative to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to begin an aggressive and effective defense immediately. Contact our Charleston lawyers today for a free initial consultation.
Magistrate and Municipal Courts in South Carolina handle thousands of cases each year, ranging from simple traffic violations to more serious misdemeanor offenses. These courts are designed to resolve cases efficiently, but that speed can also mean limited time to prepare your defense if you don’t act quickly. Having an attorney who understands the local court system ensures that your rights are protected from the very start.
Even though misdemeanors are considered less severe than felonies, the penalties can still have a major impact on your life. A conviction can appear on background checks, influence employment opportunities, affect professional licenses, and even lead to higher insurance rates. For college students, misdemeanor convictions can impact scholarships and federal student aid eligibility. Protecting your record now can prevent bigger issues in the future.
Working with a Charleston criminal defense attorney familiar with South Carolina’s Magistrate and Municipal Courts gives you an immediate advantage. Your attorney can negotiate with prosecutors, identify procedural weaknesses, and often appear in court on your behalf—saving you time and stress while ensuring your case is handled with care.
Because these courts move quickly, it’s important to contact an attorney as soon as you’re charged or receive a citation. The earlier your defense begins, the more options you have for a favorable outcome. Our firm represents clients facing DUI, drug possession, domestic violence, assault and battery, and other misdemeanor charges across Charleston and surrounding areas.
Contact our Charleston criminal defense lawyers today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future and your record.
