What to Expect During an Arraignment in South Carolina

January 14, 2026

An arraignment is one of the first formal appearances for a criminal defendant in court. Although brief, it is a …

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How Federal Sentencing Guidelines Work

January 14, 2026

Anyone convicted of a federal crime will be sentenced by the judge according to the federal sentencing guidelines. These guidelines …

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Getting a DUI Reduced to Reckless Driving in South Carolina

January 14, 2026

Facing a DUI charge is terrifying. Not only can a conviction result in severe penalties, but you could also jeopardize …

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Are DUI Checkpoints Legal in South Carolina?

January 13, 2026

DUI checkpoints are a tool the South Carolina police use to catch drunk drivers. You will probably come across one …

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Stand Your Ground and Self-Defense Laws in South Carolina

December 23, 2025

No one should have to live in fear of physical harm. Nonetheless, crime is a reality in South Carolina, and …

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Guide to the Federal Criminal Appeals Process

December 16, 2025

A conviction at trial is not the end of the road for many defendants. Most have the right to file …

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Federal vs. State Drug Crimes

December 9, 2025

Both the federal government and South Carolina prosecute drug crimes, but there are several differences. Not all drug activity is …

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Can A Cop Search Your Car Without a Warrant in South Carolina?

December 4, 2025

The Fourth Amendment protects all people from unreasonable searches and seizures. If the police want to conduct a search of …

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How to Beat a Criminal Domestic Violence Charge in SC

November 21, 2025

Criminal domestic violence charges are serious. Anyone accused of criminal domestic violence (CDV) can face felony or misdemeanor charges, not …

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What Proof is Needed For A Restraining Order in SC?

November 14, 2025

Restraining orders protect people from threats of violence, stalking, or other criminal behavior. In South Carolina, a person may seek …

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a lawyer?

If you have been charged with a crime, arrested, or under investigation then you need a lawyer.

When you’re charged with a crime, there may be potential penalties that you’re not aware of. But there are ways to defend against the charges, too. Your lawyer can strategize for your case. They can represent you in court and to the prosecutor, putting their expertise to work for you.

Even if the charges don’t seem significant now, they may affect you in the future. Your lawyer defends your freedom and your best interests. If you’re facing a criminal charge or police investigation, contact a criminal defense lawyer.

What steps should I take immediately to protect my rights?

If you’re arrested or charged with a crime, be polite – but don’t consent to any search. Politely say that you refuse to answer any questions. Don’t resist the law enforcement officer.

Exercise your right to remain silent. This includes law enforcement officers before and after the arrest. It also means not talking to others at the police station, your friends, extended family, and social media. The things you say can be used against you.

Ask to contact your lawyer. Then call us right away. We can represent you at your next court hearing. Save everything that you think may be relevant to the case.

How long will my case take?

Every case has a different timeline depending on the severity and facts of the case. Some criminal charges can be resolved in just a few weeks. Others can take several months.

As your lawyer, William G. Yarborough will help you balance the various factors. It can take time to build defenses and/or negotiate a favorable plea agreement. It may be worth it to wait to go to trial. Other times, it’s best to take a plea deal.

What’s right for you depends on multiple factors. Attorney Yarborough can advise you on what he thinks is your best course of action.

Will my case go to trial?

There may be non-trial options available to you. You may secure a plea bargain or a pre-trial case diversion. Sometimes, preliminary motions can result in charges being dismissed.

However, you always have the right to a trial. In a trial, the prosecutor must prove the charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt.

Most cases don’t end up going to trial. But what matters is your case. Attorney Yarborough will work with you on a personalized case plan that reflects your interests and goals.

If your case does go to trial, Attorney William G. Yarborough is prepared to aggressively defend you in court.

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