Domestic violence charges in South Carolina are taken seriously and move quickly through the court system. An arrest can lead to immediate criminal charges, restraining orders, no-contact orders, and life-changing consequences affecting your freedom, family, and future. If you are facing allegations in Anderson County, working with an experienced criminal defense attorney and domestic violence lawyer is critical from the very beginning.
Domestic violence cases often involve emotional situations, conflicting stories, and rapid decisions by law enforcement. Unlike many criminal cases, protective actions are imposed immediately, sometimes before all facts are known. At Touma Law Group, our domestic abuse lawyers and domestic abuse attorneys provide strategic legal counsel designed to protect your rights, your criminal record, and your family relationships from day one.
This page explains South Carolina domestic violence laws, the different degrees of charges, related criminal cases, and how our criminal defense and family law experience work together to serve your legal needs.
Understanding Domestic Violence Laws in South Carolina
South Carolina law defines domestic violence as causing physical harm, attempting to cause harm, or placing a household member in fear of harm. Household members include spouses, former spouses, people who share a child, and individuals who currently or formerly lived together romantically.
Many cases begin with a 911 call, a third-party report, or injuries observed by officers. Police may proceed with an arrest based on police reports, visible injuries, or alleged evidence of abuse, even when the accused disputes the claim. This can lead to immediate restraining or protective orders, court orders involving safe housing, and restrictions on the custody of children.
Because these criminal cases escalate fast, early representation by the best Anderson criminal lawyer allows you to protect yourself before statements, bond decisions, or court procedures lock you into damaging positions.
Degrees of Domestic Violence Charges in Anderson County
South Carolina recognizes multiple degrees of domestic violence. Each level carries different penalties and requires a tailored defense strategy.
Domestic Violence 3rd Degree
Third-degree domestic violence often involves allegations of minor injury, attempted harm, or threatening behavior. Even at this level, consequences may include jail time, fines, probation, mandatory counseling, and lasting impacts on your criminal background check.
These cases frequently overlap with simple assault, disorderly conduct, or public intoxication allegations, especially when alcohol or drugs are involved.
Domestic Violence 2nd Degree
Second-degree domestic violence includes allegations involving moderate injury, prior convictions, protective & restraining order violations, or conduct placing a victim at risk of serious bodily injury. Prosecutors may also allege second-degree assault or assault & battery allegations in connection with these cases.
Domestic Violence 1st Degree
First-degree domestic violence is a felony charge. It may involve alleged strangulation, firearms, prior convictions, or serious injury. These cases often involve gun charges, search warrants, or evidence discovered during police response.
Domestic Violence of a High and Aggravated Nature (DVHAN)
DVHAN is the most severe charge and may involve extreme violence, deadly weapons, or assault of a high and aggravated nature. These cases can permanently affect employment, housing, and custody rights.
Related Criminal Charges Often Filed With Domestic Violence
Domestic violence cases rarely stand alone. Prosecutors frequently add additional charges that increase exposure and complexity.
Common accompanying charges include:
- Assault charges, including first-degree assault and second-degree assault
- Assault & battery allegations
- Protective & restraining order violations
- Gun charges
- Drug laws violations discovered during arrest
- Open container or public intoxication
- Disorderly conduct
- Traffic tickets connected to the incident
Our attorneys review witness statements, bodycam footage, and arrest circumstances to challenge overcharging and constitutional violations.
Restraining Orders, No-Contact Orders, and Protective Actions
After an arrest, courts often issue immediate restraining orders, no-contact orders, and other protective actions. These may restrict:
- Where you can live
- Contact with children
- Communication with the alleged victim
- Access to shared finances or property
Violating these orders even unintentionally can result in new criminal charges. We help clients understand court orders, request modifications, and defend against alleged violations while preserving family stability.
Family Law, Custody, and Civil Implications
Domestic violence allegations often intersect with family law, including:
- Custody & visitation disputes
- Divorce proceedings
- Emergency family court consultations
- Financial support and safe housing orders
Our firm provides civil & criminal consultations, coordinating defense strategies that protect both your criminal case and your parental rights. We assist clients with custody of children and long-term family planning when domestic violence allegations arise.
Learn More: The Long-Term Impact of a Domestic Violence Conviction
How Our Criminal Defense Team Builds Your Case
Our evidence-based approach focuses on accuracy, procedure, and constitutional protections.
We analyze:
- Police reports and investigative errors
- Search warrants and illegal searches
- Witness credibility issues
- Medical records and injury claims
- Self-defense evidence
Emergency bond hearings require immediate action. We advocate for reasonable conditions so clients can return to work, secure safe housing, and prepare their defense.
Comprehensive Legal Services at Touma Law Group
Touma Law Group offers a wide range of legal services to meet evolving user needs, including:
- Criminal defense
- Domestic violence defense
- Family law representation
- Drug lawyer services
- Personal injury guidance
- Traffic tickets defense
Our practice area approach ensures clients receive personalized service, confidential service, and support from experienced attorneys and professional support staff. We are proud to serve clients with high standards of customer service.
Why Clients Choose Touma Law Group
Clients trust Touma Law Group because we provide:
- Personalized service
- Strategic legal counsel
- Confidential handling of sensitive cases
- Clear contact information and accessibility
- Transparent communication through our firm website
Our attorneys understand how criminal convictions affect employment, housing, professional licensing, and family life. Every initial consultation is handled with discretion and respect.
Learn More: Do You Need a Lawyer for Domestic Violence Charges in SC?
Speak With an Anderson, SC Domestic Violence Lawyer Today
Domestic violence charges in Anderson County require immediate legal action. Whether your case involves criminal convictions, custody disputes, or complex legal challenges, early representation matters.
Touma Law Group provides experienced criminal defense and family law guidance designed to protect your rights, your family, and your future. Contact our office today at (864) 777-8062 to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can help.
Your case deserves careful attention, strategic defense, and a legal team that understands what’s at stake.
