Violent Crime Attorney In Columbia

Serious Charges, High Stakes, Focused Defense

If you or someone you care about has been accused of a violent crime in Columbia, you are facing one of the most stressful moments of your life. Prison time, a permanent record, and damage to your family and reputation may all be on the line. You need clear information and steady guidance, not scare tactics.

At The Law Offices of Marion M. Moses, LLC, we represent people charged with serious violent offenses in this part of South Carolina. Our attorney, Marion M. Moses, has practiced law in South Carolina since 2001 and has served as a state prosecutor and as a criminal defense lawyer. That background is a real advantage when the State is building a case against you. We offer free initial consultations so you can talk with a violent crime lawyer Columbia residents can turn to for focused, knowledgeable help. We will listen to what happened, review the charges, and explain what to expect in court.

To get started, you can call (803) 770-4483.

What Is at Stake With Violent Crime Charges in South Carolina

Violent crime allegations in South Carolina carry some of the most severe penalties in our criminal justice system. A conviction for an offense that the State labels as violent can bring long prison sentences, strict probation terms, and a lifelong criminal record that affects jobs, housing, and professional licenses. These cases also receive close attention from prosecutors and judges.

Depending on the specific charge and your history, you could face mandatory minimum sentences, significant fines, and court-ordered conditions such as no contact orders and loss of firearm rights. Non-citizens may also face immigration consequences. Once a violent felony appears on your record, it can be very difficult to move past, even years later.

Many serious felony cases in Columbia are handled in the Richland County Court of General Sessions. Initial bond hearings can occur quickly, sometimes at the Richland County courthouse or detention center. The details of your case, including where the alleged incident occurred, will help determine which court will oversee it and how soon you must appear. Our firm has spent decades working within South Carolina criminal courts, including those that serve Columbia. We understand how prosecutors approach violent crime cases, which factors they focus on, and how judges typically address bond, plea offers, and sentencing. We use that knowledge to prepare clients and to develop defense strategies that take the realities of these courts into account.

Types of Violent Crime Cases We Defend

Every violent crime case has its own facts and challenges, and there is no single approach that fits all situations. We defend a range of serious charges for people in and around Columbia, and we adjust our strategy based on the specific allegations, evidence, and goals involved.

Assault, Battery & Related Offenses

These cases can involve accusations of fights, injuries in public places, or confrontations between people who know each other. Issues like self-defense, defense of others, the level of injury, and who was the primary aggressor often play a major role. We look closely at witness statements, any video, and police reports to see whether the story the State tells matches what really happened.

Robbery, Armed Robbery & Burglary

Robbery and related offenses are treated very seriously because they involve allegations of force or threats during a theft. The State may base its case on identification by witnesses, surveillance footage, or physical evidence. We examine how that evidence was gathered, whether identification procedures were fair, and whether the facts truly support the charge that has been filed.

Domestic Violence & Criminal Sexual Conduct

Allegations involving family members or intimate partners are emotionally charged and can quickly affect living arrangements, child custody, and employment. The law is complex in these areas, and details about the relationship, prior reports, and medical or forensic evidence all matter. We approach these cases carefully, knowing that even an accusation can carry heavy consequences.

Homicide, Attempted Murder & Other Serious Offenses

The most serious violent crime charges, including various forms of homicide and attempted homicide, require a detailed review of the investigation and evidence. Factors such as intent, mental state, and potential defenses must all be considered. These cases demand thorough preparation and a clear plan from the earliest stages.

Because attorney Marion M. Moses previously served as a state prosecutor, he has seen how the State typically builds and presents these kinds of cases. We use that insight when we evaluate the strength of the evidence, anticipate the arguments that may be made in court, and look for ways to challenge the case against you. Our goal is always to develop a defense that fits both the specific charge and your broader situation, rather than relying on a standard approach.

After an Arrest in Columbia: What You Should Do Now

An arrest or active investigation for a violent crime often happens quickly and can leave you unsure of what to do next. The steps you take in the hours and days that follow can affect both your rights and the options your lawyer has later. You do not have to navigate this alone.

Here are important steps to consider after a violent crime arrest or investigation:

• Use your right to remain silent. You are not required to answer questions about the incident without a lawyer present. Statements you make to police, alleged victims, or others could be used against you. Calmly state that you wish to speak with an attorney before answering questions.
• Avoid talking about the case with others. It can be tempting to explain your side to friends, family, or on social media. These conversations can later appear in reports or in court. Until you have legal guidance, keep details of the case between you and your lawyer.
• Preserve potential evidence. Save text messages, call logs, social media posts, photographs, or other information that may help show what happened. Do not delete or alter anything related to the situation. Share this information with your attorney so it can be evaluated properly.
• Follow bond conditions carefully. If the court sets bond through a hearing in the Richland County courthouse or a nearby magistrate court, you will receive conditions such as no contact orders or travel limits. Violating those terms can result in additional charges or revocation of the bond.
• Contact a criminal defense lawyer promptly. Speaking with a violent crime defense lawyer that Columbia residents trust gives you a chance to understand your charges and upcoming court dates. Early legal involvement can help protect your rights during questioning, bond hearings, and the investigation.

If you reach out to our firm after an arrest in Columbia, we will use the free initial consultation to learn about the charges, your background, and the timelines you are facing. We can explain what is likely to happen at your next hearing and discuss how we approach violent crime defense for Columbia clients can rely on. To talk with us about your situation, you can call (803) 770-4483.

How Our Former Prosecutor Builds Your Violent Crime Defense

When you hire The Law Offices of Marion M. Moses, LLC to defend a violent crime case, you are working with a firm that views your situation as more than just a file number. We start by carefully reviewing the charging documents, police reports, and any available discovery so we can understand how the State is trying to build its case against you.

As a former state prosecutor, attorney Marion M. Moses has stood on the other side of the courtroom and made decisions about how to charge and try cases. That experience helps us identify which facts may matter most to the prosecution, where the evidence may be weak, and how certain judges and prosecutors in Columbia and nearby counties are likely to respond to specific issues.

In many violent crime cases, the defense may depend on questions such as who actually started the confrontation, whether the force used was reasonable, or whether witnesses are remembering events accurately. We examine whether identification procedures were fair, whether any searches were lawful, and whether forensic or medical findings truly support the narrative presented by the State. When appropriate, we work to highlight inconsistencies or alternative explanations that support your side of the story.

Throughout the process, we keep you informed and involved. We discuss your options at key stages, including pretrial motions, possible plea negotiations, and trial. Our goal is to make sure you understand the risks and potential benefits of each choice so you can make informed decisions about your case.

Each violent crime case is different. Some may focus on self-defense, others on mistaken identity, or on challenging how the evidence was gathered. We work to build a strategy that reflects your circumstances and the realities of South Carolina law, with a constant focus on protecting your rights and your future.

Why Choose The Law Offices of Marion M. Moses, LLC for Violent Crime Defense

When you are deciding who will stand beside you in court, you need more than a name on a website. You need a firm that understands how serious violent crime charges are and has the background to guide you through them. Our practice is based in Columbia, and we regularly represent people facing serious allegations in Richland County and surrounding courts.

Attorney Marion M. Moses has more than 20 years of legal experience in South Carolina and has served as a state prosecutor and as a defense lawyer. That dual perspective helps us see your case from both sides and to anticipate how the prosecution may respond to different defense strategies. We use this knowledge when we review evidence, advise clients, and appear in court.

We take a personalized approach to violent crime defense. That means we spend time learning about you, your background, and the specific events that led to the charge. We then work to develop a defense plan that fits your goals, whether that involves challenging the charges in court or seeking a resolution that limits long-term consequences as much as possible.

Throughout your case, we strive to maintain clear and honest communication. We want you to know what is happening, what comes next, and how we are preparing on your behalf. The process begins with a free, confidential consultation where you can ask questions and receive an initial assessment of your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the police want to question me about a violent crime?

You have the right to remain silent and to ask for a lawyer. Politely state that you will not answer questions without an attorney present. Then contact our firm so we can discuss how to protect your rights before any further contact with law enforcement.

How can your firm help if my loved one is in jail on a violent charge?

We can review the charges, look at the bond that was set, and explain possible next steps. Our goal is to help you understand the situation and discuss options that may be available in the court handling the case. We start with a free consultation to gather information.

Do you handle violent crime cases in Richland County and Lexington County courts?

Yes, our firm is based in Columbia, and we handle criminal cases in Richland County and nearby areas, including Lexington County. We are familiar with the local court systems and use that knowledge when we advise clients about hearings, procedures, and what to expect in those courthouses.

Will I meet directly with attorney Marion M. Moses about my violent crime case?

During the free initial consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your situation with our firm and learn how we approach violent crime defense. Our attorney is actively involved in the cases we accept, and we work to provide individualized attention to each client we represent.

How much does it cost to hire your firm for violent crime defense?

We offer a free initial consultation to review your charges and answer questions. Fees for representation depend on factors such as the type of charge and complexity of the case. During the consultation, we explain our fee structure so you can make an informed decision before moving forward.

If you are looking for a violent crime attorney that Columbia residents can talk to about serious charges, we are here to help. To schedule your free consultation with our firm, call (803) 770-4483.