If you’ve been charged with domestic violence in the third degree (DV 3rd) in South Carolina, it’s critical to understand the possible penalties and how a conviction can impact your life. Although DV 3rd is classified as a misdemeanor, the legal and personal consequences can be far more serious than many people realize. Keep in mind while you read on that an arrest is not the same as a conviction, and the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, is here to help people avoid these consequences.
Fines, Jail Time, and Court Locations
A conviction for DV 3rd degree carries up to 90 days of jail time and fines that, with mandatory court assessments and surcharges, often exceed $5,000. While the court can suspend some or all of the jail sentence if you complete a 28‑week domestic violence counseling program, this still results in a conviction—and the accompanying collateral consequences remain in place.
In Lexington County, DV 3rd charges are typically heard in the Lexington County Domestic Violence Court at 139 East Main Street, downtown Lexington. Cases from the City of Columbia are brought in the City of Columbia Municipal Court at #1 Justice Square. Other Richland County cases are usually heard in the Richland County Central Court at 2500 Decker Boulevard.
Collateral Consequences of a DV 3rd Conviction
In addition to the immediate penalties, a DV 3rd conviction carries several long-lasting consequences. Though you may apply for an expungement five years after completing your sentence, the conviction remains part of your criminal record until then. An important consequence is the automatic enhancement of any future domestic violence charge to at least a DV 2nd degree, significantly raising the penalties and increasing your risk of jail time.
There are immigration consequences to consider as well—DV convictions can lead to deportation or make immigration relief impossible. A significant practical repercussion is the loss of firearm rights: under both state and federal law, a DV 3rd conviction or related sentencing order triggers a prohibition on possessing firearms or ammunition for at least three years.
Tailored Defense Strategies for Your Goals
At the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, we believe that every client deserves a defense strategy tailored to their specific goals. Whether your priority is minimizing jail time, avoiding further confrontation with your partner, preserving firearm rights if possible, or fully contesting false allegations, we work with you to craft a plan that aligns with your preferences. We believe your case should be resolved in a way that you choose—not one dictated by the police, prosecutor, or court.
A Resource for Understanding Your Options
Attorney James Snell has written Challenging CDV to help people facing domestic violence charges better understand the law, the court process, and potential defenses. This book is provided free of charge to anyone who schedules a consultation with our office and is also available for purchase on Amazon.com. Many clients have found that reading Challenging CDV helped ease their anxiety and gave them the confidence to take the next step in defending themselves.
Take Action Today to Protect Your Future
If you or someone you care about has been charged with DV 3rd degree, it’s important to act quickly. Call the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC today at (803) 359‑3301 to schedule your free consultation. Same‑day appointments are usually available. With over 20 years of experience defending clients against domestic violence charges in Richland and Lexington Counties, Attorney Snell knows how to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.