An arrest for assault on a police officer can trigger legal consequences that disrupt nearly every aspect of your life and can leave you afraid for the future. These charges often arise in high-tension scenarios, and the legal system treats them with heightened seriousness. If you are facing these allegations, you should consider speaking with an assault attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can analyze your case, advise on potential results, and assist with your legal strategy.
At Ellis Hinton, LLC, we bring the full weight of our background as both state and federal prosecutors to bear in every case we take on. Based in Greenville, servicing SC and beyond, our firm is committed to a precise and honest approach—no false promises, just high-level legal counsel.
In South Carolina, assaulting a law enforcement officer is typically prosecuted under South Carolina Code § 16-3-600, which outlines degrees of assault and battery. When the alleged victim is a police officer, emergency responder, or corrections official performing their duties, the charges may escalate in severity. In some situations, prosecutors may also cite South Carolina Code § 16-3-29, which addresses threats or violence intended to impede public officials.
Legal consequences include:
A Greenville assault on an officer attorney can leverage statutory law and courtroom strategy to make a meaningful difference in your defense and the outcome of your case.
Successfully challenging this type of charge requires a strong evidentiary review. Our firm starts by examining video footage, officer reports, and witness testimony. We assess whether the officer’s use of authority was lawful and whether any procedural violations occurred during your arrest.
Potential legal defenses may include:
This approach allows us to create a well-reasoned argument that addresses both the facts and the law, offering a pathway toward reduced charges or a case dismissal when appropriate.
The criminal process begins quickly. Following your arrest, you may be held in custody until your bond hearing, where a judge determines your conditions for release. Your case could then proceed through several stages, including discovery, pre-trial motions, and—if necessary—trial.
An assault on an officer lawyer in Greenville works diligently during each of these phases. We file motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, negotiate with prosecutors when appropriate, and prepare for court as if every case could go to trial. This level of preparation reflects our belief that a strong early posture can lead to better outcomes.
What sets many of these charges apart from other violent offenses is the element of miscommunication or rapid escalation. In chaotic situations—especially during protests, traffic stops, or high-stress arrests—interactions can quickly spiral out of control. A shove or raised voice may be interpreted as aggression, especially when directed toward someone in uniform.
Our Greenville attorneys understand these nuances related to an assault on an officer case. We focus not just on legal definitions, but also on the context surrounding your arrest. By bringing this human element into your defense, we can better illustrate your side of the story, creating space for empathy and understanding in the courtroom.
Accusations of assaulting an officer deserve immediate attention because they can carry life-changing penalties. Call Ellis Hinton, LLC, to consult a Greenville assault on an officer lawyer about your case. Our team is ready to provide you with a personalized, principled legal defense to help you protect your rights and future.
(864) 775-5775