Fighting for You.


South Carolina Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Myrtle Beach, Columbia, and Lexington
At Thompson & Hiller Defense Firm, our sole focus is criminal defense. Attorneys Lacey Thompson and Laura Hiller represent individuals accused of crimes throughout South Carolina, with dedicated offices in Myrtle Beach and Columbia, SC.
As active members of the South Carolina Bar Association and the South Carolina Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, our firm is committed to protecting your rights at every stage of your case.
Focused Exclusively on Criminal Defense in South Carolina
We don’t “dabble” in criminal law, criminal defense is all we do. Our exclusive focus means we are continually sharpening our knowledge of South Carolina criminal law, police investigations, and courtroom procedures in both Magistrate Courts and General Sessions Courts.
Our firm has achieved case dismissals, pre-trial diversion outcomes, and jury acquittals in hundreds of criminal cases across SC. While no attorney can guarantee results, we’re always prepared to take your case to trial with the support of experienced investigators and expert witnesses.
Myrtle Beach Criminal Defense Lawyers
Our Myrtle Beach office serves clients throughout Horry County and the surrounding Grand Strand region. We have deep experience with:
- General Sessions Court in Conway, SC
- Municipal Courts in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Conway, and Aynor
- Horry County Magistrate Courts, including Bond Court, Traffic Court, Domestic Violence Court, and Jury Court
- Preliminary Hearings
- Implied Consent Hearings for DUI cases in Horry County
Criminal Defense Attorneys in Columbia and Lexington, SC
Our Columbia-based team regularly represents clients in Richland County, Lexington County, and nearby areas. Our attorneys routinely appear in:
- General Sessions Court in Richland and Lexington Counties
- Municipal Courts in Columbia, Lexington, Irmo, Forest Acres, Eastover, and Blythewood
- Area Magistrate Courts and Bond Courts
- Preliminary Hearings and Administrative Hearings
- Implied Consent Hearings for DUI cases in the Midlands
Should I Hire a Lawyer If I’m Planning to Plead Guilty?
Yes. Even if you’re considering a guilty plea, an experienced criminal defense lawyer can evaluate the evidence and identify possible defenses or alternative resolutions, such as pre-trial intervention or plea deals to lesser charges.
A conviction can carry long-term consequences, including license suspension, loss of job opportunities, firearm restrictions, and immigration issues. Sentencing is largely at the judge’s discretion, so proper mitigation is essential, even with a plea.
What Types of Cases Does Your Law Firm Handle?
At Thompson & Hiller Defense Firm, we handle all types of criminal charges in South Carolina state courts, from misdemeanors like shoplifting or simple possession to serious felonies including drug trafficking, violent crimes, and murder.
We represent clients at every court level, including:
- Traffic violations and DUIs
- Domestic violence
- Drug offenses
- Assault and battery
- White collar crimes
- Gun charges
- Juvenile offenses
- Homicide and violent crimes
See the full list of charges we defend
What Should I Do If the Police Want to Talk to Me?
Do not speak to the police without an attorney. Whether they consider you a suspect or a witness, talking to law enforcement can be risky and may lead to criminal charges, even if you are innocent.
Call us immediately if the police contact you. We’ll evaluate the situation and protect your rights.
Can You Get My Case Dismissed?
While many of our clients’ cases are dismissed or result in acquittals, no ethical lawyer can promise a specific outcome. Every case is unique. After reviewing the evidence, we’ll give you an honest assessment and strategic plan based on your situation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in SC?
We charge flat fees based on:
- The nature and severity of your charges
- The complexity of your case
- Required investigation or expert involvement
- Whether the case will likely go to trial
Our rates are competitive and reflect the depth of experience and preparation we bring to every case. We’ll always be transparent about costs.
Get a Free Consultation
At Thompson & Hiller Defense Firm, our mission is simple: deliver the strongest possible defense for every client. Whether you need a DUI lawyer in Myrtle Beach, a drug defense attorney in Columbia, or a violent crime defense lawyer in Lexington, we are ready to help.
Call (843) 444-6122 or contact us online for a free consultation.
Client Reviews
Mindi and Laura were an amazing team team in helping my son with a traffic violation. There responsiveness from answering my phone call, to being able to pay the invoice online, showing up to court and representing my son for a ticket in less than 24 hours. Not to mention successfully having the...
I retained Lacey Thompson & Hiller, defense firm for a difficult domestic violence case. She provided a strategy that won my case. Her legal skills are great, but just as important she's a supportive attorney who truly cares and her advice was spot on. I'll always be thankful. Besides Lacey, all the...
Attorney Laura Hiller, assisted me in 2013 by representing my daughter who at the time was only (14) years old in a juvenile criminal case being tried as an adult. The State charged her with murder. The claims at the time were completely shocking to myself and my daughter at the time and I wasn't...
Contact Us
- 1 Free Initial Consultation
- 2 Reach Us by Email, Phone, or Text
- 3 We Fight for You!
Fill out the contact form or call us at (843) 444-6122 to schedule your free consultation.