If you are facing an investigation or charge for conspiracy, it can be difficult to know what to do next. The law treats this felony very seriously, even if no act was ever carried out. A Greenville conspiracy lawyer from Ellis Hinton can help you understand what the charge involves, explain the possible outcomes, and guide you through the decisions ahead.
A private attorney from our firm can look at the communications, digital records, and timelines that prosecutors rely on. We can speak on your behalf with investigators, help you avoid missteps, and keep the process from becoming overwhelming. An experienced defense lawyer can give you the information you need to make sound choices about your future.
According to South Carolina Code § 16-17-410, conspiracy is when two or more people agree to commit an unlawful act, or to accomplish a lawful act by unlawful means. Unlike some states and federal law, South Carolina does not require proof of an overt act for a conspiracy conviction. This difference is significant because prosecutors may only need to prove that an agreement existed and that there was an intent to follow through.
Conspiracy is classified as a felony, and the penalties for a conviction are serious. A judge can impose a fine of up to $5,000 and a prison term of up to five years, though the punishment cannot exceed what would apply to the underlying crime. These rules make it critical to know whether prosecutors are pursuing state charges, federal charges, or both. Federal conspiracy under 18 U.S.C. § 371 does require proof of an overt act and carries its own sentencing framework.
Ellis Hinton, based in Greenville and offering services in South Carolina and beyond, can provide you with a conspiracy attorney who will give you clarity on these points. The differences between state and federal law, the evidence prosecutors rely on, and the potential sentencing ranges can all shape how we build a defense.
An attorney’s role is to look closely at the government’s theory and test whether the facts support it. In conspiracy cases, evidence often includes texts, emails, or testimonies that can be interpreted in more than one way. Your defense counsel in Greenville can help ensure that inferences are not treated as proof of an agreement in your conspiracy case.
Common steps in preparing a defense include:
Your attorney can also explain how multi-defendant trials work, how co-conspirator statements are treated, and whether federal involvement is likely. Each of these factors can influence both trial strategy and any potential negotiation.
Conspiracy charges raise complex issues that you should not handle alone. A Greenville conspiracy lawyer from Ellis Hinton can walk you through the statutes, the evidence, and the options available in your case. Our guidance can help you make informed decisions that protect your rights.
If you want clarity and a clear plan, reach out to Ellis Hinton. Our team can answer your questions and advise you on your next steps so you can move forward with confidence.
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