Potential Penalties in a Criminal Conviction

South Carolina law imposes strict penalties for both misdemeanors and felonies, but the actual cost often extends far beyond jail time or fines. A conviction in York, whether for a felony or misdemeanor, is likewise more than a line on your criminal record. It can take away your freedom, drain your finances, and shut doors long after you leave the courtroom.

At Parker & Bain, you can trust our York criminal defense attorneys to protect your rights and freedom. Our dedicated legal team may be able to reduce your charges, limit penalties, or avoid a conviction altogether.

What You Must Know About the Penalties for Common Crimes in York

Here are some of the common penalties you can face, depending on whether you receive a felony or misdemeanor conviction:

• Simple Possession of Marijuana (Misdemeanor): Up to 30 days in jail and a $200 fine if it’s your first offense
• Driving Under the Influence (Misdemeanor): Penalties start at 48 hours to 30 days in jail for a first offense, plus fines and license suspension
• Third-Degree Assault and Battery (Misdemeanor): Up to 30 days of jail time and fines not exceeding $500
• Burglary, 2nd Degree (Felony): Up to 15 years imprisonment
• Armed Robbery (Felony): Mandatory minimum of 10 years, up to 30 years imprisonment
• Murder (Felony): A sentence of 30 years to life in prison, or even the death penalty in some instances

While misdemeanors may sound minor, even a 30-day sentence can cost you your job, housing, and financial stability. Felonies carry even more devastating, long-lasting consequences.

What’s more, SC has one of the highest incarceration rates in the country. A recent report found that approximately 32,000 people in SC are behind bars. Likewise, the police book at least 89,000 individuals in local jails yearly. This means that a conviction can put you in a system that is already overcrowded and unforgiving.

A Criminal Conviction in York Also Comes with a Host of Collateral Consequences

A criminal conviction can follow you for the rest of your life in ways that are harder to measure. Many employers conduct background checks, and even a misdemeanor conviction can limit opportunities in industries such as healthcare, education, and government work. Landlords often deny rental applications to people with criminal records, making it harder for you to find stable housing.

Likewise, certain felony convictions can strip away your right to vote or possess a firearm. Sadly, word spreads quickly, and the stigma of a conviction can strain your family and community relationships long after the legal case ends. Even a DUI conviction can affect your employment and ability to earn a living.

These collateral consequences matter because they can significantly shape your life after release. While SC prisons hold thousands of people, even more live on the outside under the weight of a conviction, struggling to rebuild careers and reputations.

Why Hiring a Reputable York Criminal Defense Attorney Matters

Prosecutors are trained to secure convictions, and the outcome can feel predetermined if you don’t have strong legal representation. A York criminal defense lawyer helps by:

• Investigating your case thoroughly
• Challenging the charges against you
• Negotiating effectively - Plea deals are often on the table, but knowing when to accept one or when to fight in court requires experience
• Protecting your record

In some cases, diversion programs, dismissals, or expungements can prevent a conviction from appearing on your permanent record.

Talk to Our York Criminal Defense Lawyers Now

Learn how our York criminal defense attorneys at Parker & Bain can help preserve your freedom by scheduling your confidential case review at 864-252-2650 or online.