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McGuire Law

Columbia Assault and Battery Attorney

Assault and battery charges in Columbia, South Carolina can destroy your reputation, career, and freedom in ways you never imagined possible. Whether the incident occurred during a heated disagreement in Five Points, a misunderstanding at a USC tailgate, or a domestic dispute in your neighborhood, these serious criminal charges demand immediate legal intervention.

Assault Charges Require Immediate Action - Call Now for Free
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Available 24/7 - Immediate Response for Assault Arrests

Attorney Matt McGuire

Columbia prosecutors aggressively pursue assault and battery cases, often seeking maximum penalties that include jail time, hefty fines, and permanent criminal records. Don't let a moment of poor judgment define the rest of your life.

Matthew McGuire has successfully defended clients throughout Columbia and Richland County for over three decades, understanding the complexities of South Carolina assault and battery laws. With offices in Columbia and availability 24/7/365, McGuire Law responds immediately when arrests occur—because in assault cases, the first hours are critical for protecting your rights and building your defense.

The Legal Expertise of McGuire Law

When prosecutors seek to portray you as violent and dangerous, you need an attorney who can present the complete picture and challenge their narrative at every turn.

Assault Defense Mastery

From simple assault to first-degree felony charges, we have successfully defended clients against all levels of assault and battery accusations with proven strategies that work.

Self-Defense Expertise

Deep understanding of South Carolina self-defense laws and how to prove you acted reasonably to protect yourself or others from imminent harm.

Video Evidence Analysis

We scrutinize surveillance footage, cell phone videos, and body camera recordings that often reveal different perspectives than initial police reports suggest.

Witness Credibility Challenges

Skilled cross-examination that exposes inconsistencies, bias, or ulterior motives in witness testimony that can undermine the prosecution's entire case.

Constitutional Rights Protection

Aggressive challenge of police procedures, illegal searches, and Miranda violations that can result in evidence suppression and case dismissal.

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Assault and Battery Charges We Defend

From misdemeanor simple assault to felony domestic violence, we provide aggressive defense for all assault and battery charges in Columbia and throughout Richland County.

Simple Assault

Threatening or attempting to cause bodily harm to another person, even without physical contact occurring. We challenge intent and prove defensive actions.

First Degree Assault and Battery

Charges involving serious bodily injury or deadly weapons carrying up to 10 years in prison. We fight to reduce charges or prove justification.

Second Degree Assault and Battery

Moderate bodily injury charges carrying up to three years imprisonment under South Carolina law. We challenge injury severity and intent elements.

Third Degree Assault and Battery

Basic physical contact without serious injury but still results in up to 30 days in jail. We negotiate dismissals and alternative resolutions.

Domestic Violence

Enhanced penalties and mandatory protective orders that can separate you from your family. We protect your rights while working toward reunification.

Aggravated Assault

Circumstances that elevate simple assault charges, including use of weapons or targeting vulnerable victims. We challenge aggravating factors aggressively.

Attempted Assault

Charges when physical contact doesn't occur but threatening behavior demonstrates clear intent. We prove lack of intent and defensive posture.

Domestic Violence Triggers Federal Consequences

Domestic violence convictions trigger federal firearm prohibitions that eliminate careers in law enforcement, military service, and security.

McGuire Law's Core Values

Assault charges carry social stigma that can damage your reputation before you ever see a courtroom. We work to protect both your freedom and your name throughout the legal process.

Presumption of Innocence

We treat every client as innocent until proven guilty and fight to ensure the justice system does the same. Your reputation deserves protection from day one.

24/7 Crisis Response

Assault arrests happen at all hours, often after incidents in bars or at home. We're available around the clock to respond immediately and begin protecting your rights.

Aggressive Advocacy

We fight hard for our assault defense clients. Whether challenging witnesses, negotiating with prosecutors, or presenting your case to a jury, we advocate aggressively for your freedom.

Complete Transparency

We believe in honest, straightforward communication about your assault case. We'll tell you what to expect and give you realistic assessments based on our 30+ years of experience.

Reputation Protection

We understand assault charges affect your job, family, and standing in the community. We work to minimize publicity and protect your reputation throughout the process.

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Defense Strategies We Employ

We use every available legal tool to challenge assault charges and protect your constitutional rights throughout the process.

Self-Defense Claims

Proving you reasonably believed physical force was necessary to protect yourself from imminent harm under South Carolina's self-defense laws.

Defense of Others

Justifying assault charges when protecting family members, friends, or innocent bystanders from criminal attacks or imminent danger.

Lack of Intent

Proving alleged assault resulted from accidents, misunderstandings, or unforeseeable circumstances beyond your control.

Constitutional Violations

Challenging arrests and evidence gathering that exceeded police authority, resulting in evidence suppression and case dismissal.

Video Evidence Analysis

Examining surveillance footage and recordings that frequently reveal different perspectives contradicting initial police reports.

Medical Expert Testimony

Distinguishing between alleged injuries and pre-existing conditions unrelated to the incident to undermine prosecution claims.

The McGuire Law Difference

Assault cases often come down to conflicting stories and witness credibility. Matt McGuire's three decades of trial experience means we know how to present your side effectively and challenge prosecution narratives that oversimplify complex situations.

Three Decades of Criminal Defense

Over 30 years defending assault and battery charges throughout South Carolina, from bar fights to serious felony cases requiring complex defense strategies.

Same-Day Response for Assault Arrests

When you're arrested for assault, every hour counts. We guarantee same-day response to all assault arrest inquiries—even on weekends and holidays.

Local Court Experience

Familiar with Columbia Police Department procedures, Richland County prosecutors, and local judges. This knowledge gives our clients significant strategic advantages.

Bond Hearing Representation

Immediate representation at bond hearings to secure your release and avoid excessive bail amounts that keep you incarcerated unnecessarily.

Results-Focused Defense

We're focused on outcomes that matter—dismissed charges, acquittals, reduced sentences, and protecting your future from permanent criminal records.

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Long-Term Consequences of Assault Convictions

Assault convictions create permanent records that affect every aspect of your life for years to come.

Criminal Consequences

  • First-degree convictions carry up to 10 years in prison plus permanent felony records
  • Domestic violence triggers federal firearm prohibitions affecting military and law enforcement careers
  • Professional licenses face suspension or revocation in healthcare, education, and finance
  • Immigration consequences including deportation for non-citizens convicted of violent crimes

Collateral Consequences

  • University disciplinary actions can result in expulsion even when charges are dismissed
  • Child custody disputes become complicated when assault convictions appear in family court
  • Employment background checks reveal convictions for years, limiting job opportunities
  • Housing applications frequently reject applicants with violent crime convictions

Protect Your Future Now

The decisions you make in the first hours after arrest determine outcomes that affect the rest of your life.

Common Assault Arrest Scenarios

Understanding how assault arrests typically occur in Columbia helps prepare your defense strategy from the start.

Bar Fights

Incidents in Columbia's Vista or Five Points entertainment districts often result in multiple assault charges against all parties involved, regardless of who started it.

Domestic Disputes

When neighbors call Columbia Police about loud arguments or visible injuries, criminal charges frequently follow even when both parties want the matter dropped.

USC Campus Incidents

Students face both criminal charges and university disciplinary proceedings that can jeopardize educational futures and career prospects.

Road Rage Confrontations

Incidents on busy Columbia streets like Two Notch Road or Forest Drive commonly lead to assault arrests when situations escalate beyond verbal exchanges.

Self-Defense Situations

When police arrive after the initial confrontation and lack complete context, those who defended themselves often face assault charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Assault charges raise urgent questions that demand immediate answers. Here's what Columbia defendants need to know about their rights and options.

What's the difference between assault and battery?

Assault involves threatening or attempting to harm someone, while battery requires actual physical contact. However, South Carolina law combines them into "assault and battery" charges at various degrees.

Can assault charges be dismissed?

Yes. Charges can be dismissed for self-defense, lack of evidence, constitutional violations, or witness credibility issues. Matt McGuire has secured numerous dismissals through aggressive pretrial advocacy.

What if I was defending myself?

South Carolina law allows reasonable force to defend yourself from imminent harm. We work to prove you acted reasonably and that charges should be dismissed based on self-defense.

Will I go to jail for assault?

Potential jail time depends on charge severity, your criminal history, and case circumstances. First-degree charges carry up to 10 years, while third-degree carries up to 30 days.

What happens at a bond hearing?

The judge determines whether to release you and sets bail conditions. We advocate for reasonable bond amounts and conditions that allow you to maintain employment and family responsibilities.

Can the alleged victim drop charges?

In South Carolina, prosecutors—not victims—decide whether to pursue charges. However, victim cooperation often affects case strength, and we can work with all parties toward resolution.

How long will my case take?

Assault cases typically take 3-12 months depending on complexity and whether the case goes to trial. We push for quick resolution while protecting your rights at every stage.

What does assault defense cost?

Defense costs vary based on charge severity and case complexity. We provide clear fee structures upfront with no hidden costs. Call for free to discuss your case and get honest fee estimates.

Matt McGuire - Attorney

About South Carolina Attorney Matt McGuire

Matt McGuire South Carolina Criminal Defense Personal Injury Family Law Attorney

With over 30 years of experience defending South Carolina, McGuire Law provides elite legal representation with national recognition. McGuire Law has grown from a small practice into one of the most trusted law firms in South Carolina. We understand that legal issues can be overwhelming, whether you're facing criminal charges, dealing with injuries from an accident, or navigating family law matters.

McGuire Law is committed to each client's unique situation, and we don't believe in boilerplate solutions. Every case requires careful analysis, strategic planning, and aggressive representation. Our firm combines over 30 years of experience with cutting-edge legal strategies to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients.

McGuire Law serves all 46 South Carolina counties. We know these counties, their courts, their legal communities, and most importantly, the people who live here. This local knowledge, combined with our legal expertise, gives our clients a significant advantage.

Matt McGuire received his B.A. from the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill and his J.D. from the University of South Carolina.

Matt has served as a law clerk for a State Circuit Judge, an Assistant Attorney General for the State of South Carolina, and an Assistant Solicitor in the Fifth Circuit Solicitor's Office.

Matt is a proud husband, father of two, and a long-time resident of Richland County, South Carolina.

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Get Started Today

When your freedom is at stake due to assault and battery charges in Columbia, you need more than just any attorney – you need Matt McGuire and McGuire Law.

Don't let another day pass without proper legal protection against assault allegations. Call McGuire Law now and experience the difference that personal, aggressive, and effective legal representation can make in your assault defense case.

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Columbia Office

2001 Assembly Street, Suite 102-B
Columbia, SC 29201

(888) 499-5738

Contact McGuire Law Today

Available 24/7/365 - Immediate Response for Assault Arrests

Don't let assault and battery charges in Columbia destroy your future when experienced legal representation can protect your rights and freedom. Call (888) 499-5738 immediately for your confidential consultation, or schedule your appointment through our online calendar system available 24/7/365.

"Your defense starts the moment you call."