Facing criminal charges Near Me Dillon, SC can be a deeply traumatic experience, with even minor offenses having a significant impact on an individual's personal and professional life. The consequences of a criminal record can be severe, resulting in job loss, loss of friendships, and even estrangement from family. For many, the only hope of leading a normal life is to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer Near Me Dillon, SC, fighting for their rights from the outset of legal proceedings.
This is where Lauren Taylor Law comes in, offering hope and proficient legal representation to those who need it most. Our criminal defense team was established specifically to help hardworking people who are facing a difficult road ahead due to criminal charges. With years of experience and deep knowledge in the field, we are committed to ensuring our clients maintain their freedom, so they can move forward with their lives and provide for their families.
We have extensive experience in handling all types of criminal cases Near Me Dillon, SC, from run-of-the-mill DUI charges to more nuanced cases involving juvenile offenses. Unlike other criminal defense law firms, we take a personalized approach to every case, utilizing cutting-edge legal strategies and innovative technologies to ensure the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Some of the most common cases that our lawyers work with include the following:
Selecting the best criminal defense lawyer for your case in South Carolina often means the difference between freedom and conviction. When your future is on the line, contact Lauren Taylor Law to work with a fierce advocate willing to fight for your rights. Of course, when you've been charged with a crime, having extra knowledge about South Carolina law can go a long way. Before we touch on some of our specialties, it's important for you to understand the various types of criminal defense cases in South Carolina.
Criminal cases in South Carolina are broken down into a few different categories. As a very general rule, crimes that are punishable by three years or less are considered misdemeanors in South Carolina. Anything punishable by more than three years in prison is usually classified as a felony.
Crimes can be classified as either state crimes or federal crimes, depending on whether they violate state laws or federal laws. The decision on which category to pursue charges under is typically made by the prosecutor. Generally speaking, crimes such as assault, robbery, domestic violence, theft, and rape are considered state crimes. Federal crimes, on the other hand, may include computer crime, major drug trafficking, hate crimes, and money laundering, which are often handled by agencies like the FBI or IRS.
It's common for cases to be resolved outside of court. A plea deal allows the defendant to admit guilt to one or more charges without having to go through the trial process. In fact, your criminal defense attorney Near Me Dillon, SC, and the prosecutor of your case work together to reach a mutually agreeable deal, to avoid the risks and unpredictability of a trial. By taking a plea deal, you may receive a reduced sentence and avoid the stress of a full-blown legal battle.
For the average person charged with their first crime, understanding the difference between a misdemeanor crime and a felony crime can be hard to grasp. In simple terms, misdemeanors are usually considered petty crimes. They often result in fines and can involve time already served at a local county jail. Trials and plea deals for such offenses often move quickly due to their nature.
On the other hand, felonies are much more serious crimes that are classified by degrees. The most severe of these are first-degree felonies, while the least serious are sixth-degree felonies. When someone is charged with a felony, they may face hefty fines and a prison sentence of over a year in a federal or state institution. Those who have been convicted of a felony may encounter difficulties after their release, which is why it's crucial to have a reliable criminal defense attorney.
SC Code Section 16-1-20 provides us with a helpful penalty outline as it relates to felonies and misdemeanors:
It's important to note that these are maximum sentences, and the actual sentence may be less depending on the specific circumstances of the crime.
Hiring a criminal defense lawyer is a serious decision that should not be delayed. The longer you wait, the fewer opportunities you have for a positive outcome, as the penalties, fines, and potential jail time can increase. It's important to seek counsel from experienced criminal law attorneys, like Lauren Taylor Law, to protect your career, family, and personal freedom. When you work with our criminal defense law firm in South Carolina, you can rest easy knowing we:
Here are just a few reasons you should hire a seasoned attorney if you've been charged with a crime in South Carolina:
Hiring a skilled criminal defense lawyer is crucial for many reasons, one of which is their understanding of the complex judicial system. The legal system can be difficult to navigate, even for those who work within it frequently.
But with a proficient defense lawyer on your side, you'll have a personal guide through the process specific to your criminal case in South Carolina. At Lauren Taylor Law, we believe in demystifying the judicial process by providing one-on-one counsel and a comprehensive explanation of South Carolina court proceedings when needed.
When you work with Lauren Taylor Law, you're being represented by a team of hardworking, client-first advocates who aren't afraid to fight for your rights. That's very important in the world of criminal law, where lawyers and other parties may try to fool you into saying or doing something to jeopardize your case. From your initial consultation to the time your case is closed, your criminal defense attorney Near Me Dillon, SC, should always prioritize your best interests and advise you on how to proceed in your case.
If you are facing criminal charges, a skilled defense attorney can advocate for you and work to secure a better outcome. They may be able to negotiate reduced charges or penalties or even have your case dismissed if the police obtained evidence illegally.
This can prevent a felony conviction from tarnishing your record and causing harm to your current or future career. Additionally, a reduction in penalties can help you avoid jail time and hold onto your job. Ultimately, a dismissal of your case can spare you from a life in the legal system and help you secure a better future for yourself and your family.
At Lauren Taylor Law, our criminal defense attorneys have decades of combined experience. We've seen and done just about all there is to do in terms of criminal defense in South Carolina. Along the way, we've developed relationships with local prosecutors that help us obtain desirable results for clients. Establishing a cordial rapport with an "opponent" may seem strange, but it benefits both sides as familiarity breeds a more pleasant experience.
A skilled lawyer who has cultivated a positive relationship with your prosecutor can significantly impact the verdict of your case. Through their amicable ties, they may secure a favorable plea bargain or negotiate a reasonable bond. Our team of criminal defense attorneys has provided legal representation for clients in almost every county within South Carolina.
Could you imagine your criminal defense lawyer painting a positive picture of your case, only to be charged with a felony resulting in years of prison time? At Lauren Taylor Law, we aren't in the business of sugar-coating your case or bending the truth. We understand the potential consequences of a conviction and can offer guidance on the best course of action for your specific case.
Our experienced attorneys are knowledgeable about the tendencies of judges in South Carolina and can advise you on whether to accept a plea deal or fight the charges in court. We prioritize your best interests and work to ensure the best possible outcome for your case. That way, you have a fair shot at freedom and living a normal life outside of the South Carolina court system.

One of the most common questions we hear from prospective clients is, "When should I hire a criminal defense attorney for my case Near Me Dillon, SC?" While no two situations or clients are ever truly the same, there are common criminal situations to consider. Here are some guidelines to help you determine when it's appropriate to hire a criminal defense attorney for your case:
If you have been associated with any convictions mentioned above, it is crucial to seek the assistance of a lawyer or law firm experienced in handling such cases. Losing a case could have severe consequences, and you need expert guidance to navigate through the legal process. At Lauren Taylor Law, our criminal defense attorneys are well-versed in handling such cases and can offer you a consultation to help you understand your rights.
If you have been accused of a crime, you and your family are probably curious about the process that lies ahead regarding your criminal case. Generally speaking, the process for criminal cases in South Carolina is as follows:
Investigation: Law enforcement will investigate and gather evidence before charging you with a crime.
Charges: After your arrest, you will have a trial to determine the charges being presented against you. It's recommended to find a lawyer as soon as possible to help defend your case.
Initial hearing: You will be brought before a magistrate judge to learn more about the charges being brought against you.
Discovery: Before the trial, the prosecutor and your attorney will gather evidence and information to prepare their cases. This includes finding witnesses to testify during the trial.
Plea bargaining: If the case against you is strong, the prosecutor may offer a plea deal to lessen the severity of the sentencing. If you plead guilty, there will be no trial, and the charges will be determined.
Preliminary hearing: In some cases, there may be a hearing to present evidence in your favor before the trial, after you have chosen to plead not guilty.
Pre-trial motions: Before the trial, the prosecutor can make a motion to decide on a certain issue. These motions range from dismissing a charge to moving the trial venue.
Trial: Both sides present their case during the trial and bring in evidence to convince the jury. Shortly after the trial, the verdict is announced.
By understanding the legal process for criminal cases in South Carolina, you can better prepare for what's ahead and work with your criminal defense attorney Near Me Dillon, SC, to defend your case.
Having served criminal defense clients in South Carolina for years, our team of experienced lawyers has worked with a litany of cases, from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies. We understand that no two issues are the same and that every client has unique needs and concerns regarding their case. We also understand that knowledge can go a long way, and as such, would like to summarize some standard cases our attorneys work with daily:
DUIs: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can result in a fine or jail time. A SC DUI lawyer can defend your rights during your case.
Misdemeanors: These crimes are less severe than felonies and are usually punishable with fines and jail time. Many of the crimes we handle at Lauren Taylor Law are misdemeanors at the state level.
Burglary: When you enter a home and commit theft, you've committed a burglary. This crime is a felony and, as such, can result in up to 10 years of prison time.
Domestic Violence: This type of crime can range from abuse in the family home to a fight in public. Penalties for domestic abuse range in severity and can change if an injury is involved.
Drug Charges: Drug charges are very common in South Carolina and can range from possession, intent to deliver, and trafficking.
Shoplifting: This crime is a form of theft that may be classified as an infraction rather than a misdemeanor in certain cases.
Theft: Theft, or larceny, is defined as unlawfully taking possessions that belong to an entity or person. Theft is different from burglary and shoplifting, though prosecutors often stack those charges together.
Weapons Charges: Possessing, utilizing, or selling an unlicensed weapon are all examples of weapons charges, which can carry very serious consequences in South Carolina.
Juvenile Crimes: When it comes to criminal charges involving minors, the term "juvenile crime" refers to offenses committed by individuals under the age of 18. However, depending on the seriousness of the crime, some young people may face trial as adults.
Violent Crimes: When an individual is subjected to or threatened with violence, it is considered a violent crime.
Lauren Taylor Law is the go-to choice for clients who value honesty, hard work, and transparent communication. Our mission is not to judge individuals who have been accused of crimes. Rather, we aim to secure the best possible defense for our clients while upholding their rights and freedom. If you or someone you care about is facing criminal charges in South Carolina, don't leave your fate to chance. Take the necessary precautions to protect yourself before it's too late - contact a Lauren Taylor Law criminal defense attorney Near Me Dillon, SC today.
843-790-9009
Dillon graduate Keith Coward (2004) is beginning his 4th season as the athletic director in the tradition rich Wildcat athletic program. By Billy G. Baker Publisher Dillon—Dillon graduate Keith Coward (2004) is beginning his 4th season as the athletic director in the tradition rich Wildcat athletic program, and as usual there is little turnover with the varsity head coaches at the school coming into the 2026-27 school ye...
Dillon graduate Keith Coward (2004) is beginning his 4th season as the athletic director in the tradition rich Wildcat athletic program.
By Billy G. Baker
Publisher
Dillon—Dillon graduate Keith Coward (2004) is beginning his 4th season as the athletic director in the tradition rich Wildcat athletic program, and as usual there is little turnover with the varsity head coaches at the school coming into the 2026-27 school year.
Dillon has come down to Class AA with the realignment this season after competing as a AAA program this past few years. They are in Region 6-AA along with EastClarendon, Lake City, Manning, Marlboro County and Waccamaw. Dillon will start the 2026 football season on August, 21 hosting Camden High.
Coach Coward is also the head baseball coach at Dillon. He is very pleased with the Wildcats having one of their most successful baseball seasons in a while as they finished at 17-8 and won the region title. They also won four playoff games in the SCHSL AAA playoffs and they were eliminated from the playoffs with a one run loss to Oceanside Collegiate who went on to compete for a state title.
Coch Coward was a four-time al state baseball player at Dillon and after graduation he pitched all four years at Erskine College. He became the head baseball coach during the 2014-15 school year. He is assisted by Austin Moody, Coley Bohachic, Jamie Coleman, Pierce Watson and Nelson Green.
Asked what he now understands about being an athletic director, that he did not fully understand when he got the job three years ago, Coach Coward responded, “I have learned that the world will not fall apart if you do not make a perfect decision,” he said. “Sometimes you think you are making a perfect decision but it does not always work out that way. It will not get you fired either.”
Coach Coward gives Dillion Area Four Superintendent Ray Rogers a lot of credit for his advice on many issues since Rogers hired him three years ago. “Mr. Rogers is a great Superintendent, and his door is always open for me,” said Coach Coward. “I have never gone to him for advice when I didn’t feel better afterwards. He has been very helpful in my role as the athletic director for Dillon and Lake View High Schools.”
Coach Coward has a unique perspective on the challenges facing all high school coaches. “As coaches, in realty, we have to rely on what the community brings us in terms of talent within the players on our teams,” said Coach Coward. “I do not mean this in a negative way. The new one-time transfer rule can help you, or hurt you, depending on what side the fence you are on.
“Your challenge is player development, and having athletes willing to work hard to get better,” he said. “We certainly have had our fair share of those type athletes at Dillon and Lake View, especially within our football program. Coaches just have to work hard and coach their athletes the best they can.”
Dillon High has won a total of 8 football state titles, seven under retired Hall of Fame coach Jackie Hayes who retired after the 2020 season.
Coach Kelvin Roller succeeded Coach Hayes at the start of the 2021 season and through five seasons Coach Roller is (51-11) with four region titles.
The Dillon football team returns offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Jacob Shumate, a former HSSR Mr. Baseball. Shumate was drafted in the first round by the Atlanta Braves out of high school.
Other offensive assistants include Splinter Spivey who coaches tight ends. John Parker is the offensive line coach while former SC State all-American and Washington Red Skin all-pro receiver Charlie Brown coaches’ receivers at Dillon. Leo Phillips rounds out the offensive coaches as the running backs coach.
The defensive coordinator for the Wildcats is Will Clark, who came to the team a few years ago from Scotland County High in N.C. Bill Young works with the defensive line and Sam Grooms mentors the defensive ends. Jamie Coleman and Damu Ford team up to coach inside linebackers and former Dillon stand-out LeePage coaches the Wildcat secondary.
The Dillon junior varsity is head coached once again by Kevin Roberts. Austin Moody is the offensive coordinator and Bryce King works with the offensive line. TwinLester is the linebacker/secondary coach.
Alan McLaurin, long time receivers coach at Dillon, retired after the 2025 season after 33 seasons.
In the past 30 years Dillon High has had two high profile athletes go on and play professionally. Former Wildcat pitcher Jamie Callahan was a second- round draft pick of the Boston Red Sox in 2012 (87th pick over-all) after he was named the Gatorade Player of the year from South Carolina that season. In 2004, former Dillon and Clemson stand-out Derrick Hamilton was drafted in the third round by the 49’ers.
The Dillon volleyball program will again be head coached by Johnna Jones, starting her 6th season. Dillon is starting a cross-country program for the first time in memory and Coach Coward said he is in the process of final interviews to fill that new position.
The boys’ basketball program will once again be head coached by Dillon graduate Brian Grice who had an outstanding career at SC State after finishing high school. Girl’s basketball coach James McMillian begins his 11th season as the Dillon girls’ basketball coach, and his team is expected to challenge for an AA state title this season. His team played for a AAA state title two years ago, losing out to Walhalla in the title game.
Randy Gray just might the longest serving head varsity coach at Dillon and he returns to head coach the boy’s track program this season. Sam Grooms is back to head coach the girl’s track team.
Stevie Grice will begin his 8th season as the head softball coach at Dillon and his young team made a deep playoff run this season. Just a few years ago the softball team made it to the state title game before losing out to Seneca in a third game.
Dillon has a co-ed soccer varsity team and they are coached by Karla Silver who will begin her third season with the program.
The Dillon High Principal is Tim Gibbes. “Mr. Gibbes is very supportive of athletics at Dillon High,” said Coach Coward. “He has two sons in our high school. One plays football and soccer and the other son runs cross country and is a member of the track team.”
Under Coward’s tenure, the baseball and softball fields at both Dillon and lake View have had covered batting cages installed. The gym floor at Dillon High has been replaced along with new seats being installed. The track has been resurfaced as well.
“Our next major project is to get our Dillon gym air conditioned,” said Coach Coward.
Coach Coward also wanted to thank Brandi Huggins, the head softball coach at Lake View who handles day-to-day athletic matters at her school. “She is a fantastic person and her help with athletic matters at lake View High is greatly appreciated,” said Coach Coward.
Coach Coward wanted to thank the football press crew on Friday nights along with the chain crew and the tunnel volunteers. The public address announcer is ColeyBohachic. John Dove, Daryl Miller, Pierce Watson, and Dwayne Buckner also help out in the press box with various assignments.
The chain gang crew and tunnel volunteers include Gene Hill, Brenden Griffey, Jimmy Tanner, Roger Cox and Steve Zander.
Coach Coward also wanted to extend a high five to Hall of Fame football sideline psychologist “Ma” German and world-renowned supported McAdoo Bethea.
Sign inHolly Hill AcademyRaiders1-1Dillon ChristianWarriors1-1Holly Hill Academy Varsity Football @ Dillon ChristianGame InfoThe Holly Hill Academy varsity football team has an away non-conference game @ Dillon Christian (Dillon, SC) on Friday, September 4 @ 7:30p.ScorekeeperMatchupRosterGame DetailsTeam ComparisonHolly Hill Academy (Holly Hill)208.0Rushing Yards/GDillon Christian (Dillon)214.5Holly Hill Academy (Holly Hill)10.0Passi...
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Holly Hill AcademyRaiders1-1Dillon ChristianWarriors1-1
Game Info
The Holly Hill Academy varsity football team has an away non-conference game @ Dillon Christian (Dillon, SC) on Friday, September 4 @ 7:30p.
MatchupRoster
Game Details
Team Comparison
Holly Hill Academy (Holly Hill)208.0
Rushing Yards/G
Dillon Christian (Dillon)214.5
Holly Hill Academy (Holly Hill)10.0
Passing Yards/G
Dillon Christian (Dillon)180.0
Holly Hill Academy (Holly Hill)10.0
Receiving Yards/G
Dillon Christian (Dillon)180.0
Holly Hill Academy (Holly Hill)218.0
Total Yards/G
Dillon Christian (Dillon)394.5
Holly Hill Academy (Holly Hill)59.0
Tackles/G
Dillon Christian (Dillon)73.0
Holly Hill Academy (Holly Hill)1.0
Sacks/G
Dillon Christian (Dillon)2.0
Holly Hill Academy (Holly Hill)-
Points/G
Dillon Christian (Dillon)45.0
Holly Hill Academy (Holly Hill)11
Pancake Blocks
Dillon Christian (Dillon)-
Key Players
Avg. Per Game
Parker Kizer
#1QB/LB
Rushing Yards
137.0150.5
Jordan Blackmon
#1QB/S
Mason Green
#3QB/DB
Passing Yards
10.0180.0
Jordan Blackmon
#1QB/S
Parker Kizer
#1QB/LB
Receiving Yards
5.572.5
Blake Hunt
#2WR/DB
Parker Kizer
#1QB/LB
Total Yards
142.5330.5
Jordan Blackmon
#1QB/S
Tyler Green
#13FB/LB
Tackles
13.09.5
Terry Knight
#3RB/LB
Tyler Green
#13FB/LB
Sacks
0.51.0
Jackson Shooter
#9TE/DE/OLB
Not Enough Data
Points
--18.0
Jordan Blackmon
#1QB/S
Aarav Patel
#74OL/DL
Pancake Blocks
5--
Not Enough Data
Scoring Averages
| Final | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holly Hill Academy | 15.0 | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| Dillon Christian | 40.0 | 6.5 | 14.5 | 8.5 | 10.5 |
Rankings
South Carolina
#238
#135
South Carolina Division SCISA 1A
#8
#3
Charleston
#40
--
Columbia
#71
--
Myrtle Beach
--
#22
Season Recap
Overall Record
1-1
1-1
Region
0-0
0-0
Non-Region
1-1
1-1
Head to Head
0-0
0-0
Home
0-1
0-0
Away
1-0
1-1
Neutral
0-0
0-0
Common Opponent
0-0
0-0
Playoff
0-0
0-0
In-State
1-1
1-1
Out-of-State
0-0
0-0
Win %
.500
.500
Region %
.000
.000
PF
30
80
PA
27
56
About UsMobile AppsSubscribePrivacy PolicyTerms of useCalifornia NoticeYour Privacy ChoicesSupport
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© 2026 MaxPreps, Inc.
MaxPreps is a registered trademark of MaxPreps, Inc.
Sign inThomas Heyward AcademyRebels0-2Friday, Oct 2, 2026Dillon ChristianWarriors1-1THA Varsity Football @ Dillon ChristianGame InfoThe Thomas Heyward Academy varsity football team has an away non-conference game @ Dillon Christian (Dillon, SC) on Friday, October 2 @ 7:30p.ScorekeeperMatchupRosterGame DetailsTeam ComparisonThomas Heyward Academy (Ridgeland)-Rushing Yards/GDillon Christian (Dillon)214.5Thomas Heyward Academy (R...
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Thomas Heyward AcademyRebels0-2
Friday, Oct 2, 2026
Dillon ChristianWarriors1-1
Game Info
The Thomas Heyward Academy varsity football team has an away non-conference game @ Dillon Christian (Dillon, SC) on Friday, October 2 @ 7:30p.
MatchupRoster
Game Details
Team Comparison
Thomas Heyward Academy (Ridgeland)-
Rushing Yards/G
Dillon Christian (Dillon)214.5
Thomas Heyward Academy (Ridgeland)-
Passing Yards/G
Dillon Christian (Dillon)180.0
Thomas Heyward Academy (Ridgeland)-
Receiving Yards/G
Dillon Christian (Dillon)180.0
Thomas Heyward Academy (Ridgeland)-
Total Yards/G
Dillon Christian (Dillon)394.5
Thomas Heyward Academy (Ridgeland)-
Tackles/G
Dillon Christian (Dillon)73.0
Thomas Heyward Academy (Ridgeland)-
Sacks/G
Dillon Christian (Dillon)2.0
Thomas Heyward Academy (Ridgeland)-
Points/G
Dillon Christian (Dillon)45.0
Key Players
Avg. Per Game
Not Enough Data
Rushing Yards
--150.5
Jordan Blackmon
#1QB/S
Not Enough Data
Passing Yards
--180.0
Jordan Blackmon
#1QB/S
Not Enough Data
Receiving Yards
--72.5
Blake Hunt
#2WR/DB
Not Enough Data
Total Yards
--330.5
Jordan Blackmon
#1QB/S
Not Enough Data
Tackles
--9.5
Terry Knight
#3RB/LB
Not Enough Data
Sacks
--1.0
Jackson Shooter
#9TE/DE/OLB
Not Enough Data
Points
--18.0
Jordan Blackmon
#1QB/S
Scoring Averages
| Final | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thomas Heyward Academy | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
| Dillon Christian | 40.0 | 6.5 | 14.5 | 8.5 | 10.5 |
Rankings
South Carolina
#215
#137
South Carolina Division SCISA 1A
#5
#3
Myrtle Beach
--
#22
Savannah
#47
--
Season Recap
Overall Record
0-2
1-1
Region
0-0
0-0
Non-Region
0-2
1-1
Head to Head
0-0
0-0
Home
0-1
0-0
Away
0-1
1-1
Neutral
0-0
0-0
Common Opponent
0-0
0-0
Playoff
0-0
0-0
In-State
0-2
1-1
Out-of-State
0-0
0-0
Win %
.000
.500
Region %
.000
.000
PF
--
80
PA
27
56
About UsMobile AppsSubscribePrivacy PolicyTerms of useCalifornia NoticeYour Privacy ChoicesSupport
PlayOn Family of Brands:
© 2026 MaxPreps, Inc.
MaxPreps is a registered trademark of MaxPreps, Inc.