What to Do If a Loved One Is Arrested in South Carolina
Last Updated: May 22, 2025
By Pete Strom, Attorney at Strom Law Firm
Introduction: A Sudden Call, a Tough Situation
Getting that unexpected phone call—”Your loved one has been arrested”—can be terrifying. If you’re in South Carolina and facing this situation, you’re not alone. Knowing what steps to take right away can ease the confusion and protect your loved one’s rights. Whether in Columbia, Lexington, or Orangeburg, understanding the arrest process is crucial.
1. Stay Calm and Gather Information
First things first: stay calm. Panicking won’t help your loved one. Instead, focus on collecting critical details:
- Where they were arrested
- What were they arrested for
- Which police department made the arrest
- Where are they being held
Once you have this information, you can begin making informed decisions. Contacting the appropriate law enforcement agency, such as the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), can provide clarity about charges and custody.
Tip: Write down everything you hear—it may be vital later.
2. Understand Their Rights and Your Role
Everyone arrested has constitutional rights, including:
- The right to remain silent
- The right to an attorney
- Protection against unlawful searches
Encourage your loved one to use their right to remain silent and wait for a lawyer before speaking to the police. As their supporter, your role is to ensure they get experienced legal counsel—not to play detective or try to “clear things up” yourself.
If the arrest involves DUI or federal charges, consult specialized pages like our South Carolina DUI Lawyer and Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers.
3. Hire a Trusted South Carolina Criminal Defense Lawyer
A skilled lawyer can make all the difference. At Strom Law Firm, we’ve supported families across Columbia, Lexington, and Orangeburg through tough legal battles. Our attorneys handle:
- Criminal defense
- DUI charges
- Federal offenses
Explore our local practice pages:
- Columbia Criminal Defense Attorney
- Lexington Criminal Defense Attorney
- Orangeburg Criminal Defense Attorney
Learn more about how criminal defense attorneys are paid.
4. Prepare for the Legal Process Ahead
Once a lawyer is involved, they’ll guide you through:
- Bail hearings – determining if and how your loved one can be released
- Arraignments – where formal charges are read
- Court appearances – requiring careful coordination and documentation
Stay involved. Attend court dates if possible. Help gather any needed paperwork. A good lawyer will do the legal heavy lifting—but your emotional and logistical support matters.
Also, visit our main Criminal Defense page for a broader overview.
FAQs: People Also Ask
What should I do first if someone is arrested in South Carolina?
Immediately gather basic details—location, charge, and custody. Then contact a trusted criminal defense lawyer who handles cases in South Carolina.
Can I bail someone out right after the arrest?
Not always. A bail hearing usually takes place within 24-48 hours. The judge will determine if bail is allowed and set the amount.
Should my loved one talk to the police without a lawyer?
No. Please encourage them to stay silent and request legal counsel. Anything said can be used against them in court.
How long does the legal process take after an arrest?
It varies. Minor charges may resolve in weeks, while complex cases can take months. Your lawyer will give a realistic timeline.
Conclusion: You’re Not Alone
Navigating a loved one’s arrest can feel overwhelming, but you’re not in this alone. Strom Law Firm is here to help. Our experienced attorneys serve families throughout South Carolina and offer national support for civil rights matters.
Call us at (803) 252-4800, use our contact form, or try our live chat for immediate assistance.
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