Pretextual stops and illegal searches

The police could stop a vehicle for several reasons, including minor traffic law violations. For example, a car traveling on …

Read More

Participating in a violent mob can lead to grave consequences

Protests have become much more frequent and dangerous in the past few years. While Americans have the right to assemble …

Read More

Beware of the fine line between bribes and gifts

For centuries, people have given gifts to convey their thanks and affection. Gift-giving is often a sign of goodwill, but …

Read More

Understanding a no-contest vs. Alford plea

Anyone facing a criminal charge must attend an arraignment, where they will hear the charges against them and submit a …

Read More

Can I allow my friend to borrow my firearm?

South Carolina residents can own firearms. As a gun enthusiast, you might feel compelled to lend your firearm to a …

Read More

The insanity defense unpacked

Least used, least successful, and yet the most contentious – insanity as a criminal defense strategy triggers complex debates. As …

Read More

Information about deaths while in custody is scarce

The Death in Custody Reporting Act, which was passed by Congress in 2014, requires law enforcement agencies in South Carolina …

Read More

Federal domestic violence laws that can affect you in South Carolina

While it is typical for South Carolina law enforcement to prosecute any domestic violence crimes, there are situations in which …

Read More

What’s post-conviction relief, and how can a lawyer help?

If you went to trial to defend yourself against criminal allegations, you likely hoped to avoid a conviction. However, not …

Read More

Issues with eyewitness evidence

Some may assume that eyewitness testimony would represent solid evidence in a South Carolina courtroom, but that is not always …

Read More

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.

WGY Logo White

100% Confidential
Available 24/7

Call 864-808-6871

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.