Serving Charleston and North Charleston, SC
Guidance from Deaton
Can a DUI Be Expunged in South Carolina? No — and Here’s What Actually Can Come Off Your Record
No — South Carolina’s expungement statute excludes motor-vehicle offenses, so a DUI conviction is permanent. Here’s what can still be cleared, and when.
Arrested in South Carolina: How Long Can They Hold You, and What Happens at the Bond Hearing?
How long can police hold you after an arrest in South Carolina? §22-5-510(B) requires a bond hearing within 24 hours. What happens there, and what’s next.
South Carolina’s All-Offender Interlock Law: Why Even a First DUI Now Means an Ignition Interlock — and What It Costs
Do you need an ignition interlock for a first DUI in SC? Since May 19, 2024, yes — Act 55 made SC an all-offender state. The timeline, costs, and defenses.
Fourth of July DUI Enforcement in South Carolina: Your Rights at a Checkpoint and After an Arrest
SC DUI checkpoints must follow strict rules, and Section 56-5-2953 requires arrests to be recorded. Know your rights at a Fourth of July checkpoint and after.
The Military Shield: Protecting Military Pensions in South Carolina Under the USFSPA in 2026
USFSPA governs military pensions in divorce. Deaton Law helps servicemembers at JB Charleston and military spouses protect benefits in SC divorces.
Goose Creek Accident Settlements: Calculating Economic vs. Non-Economic Damages
In 2026, car accident settlements in Goose Creek can, and generally should, include both “special damages” (compensation for medical bills and lost wages) and “general damages” (compensation for pain and suffering). If you were partially (but not primarily) at fault...
North Charleston Underage DUI Laws 2026: Zero Tolerance Penalties and Long-Term Impact
Under South Carolina law, drivers under the age of 21 can receive a DUI if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.02 percent or above. While the only immediate consequence of a “zero tolerance” DUI in North Charleston is a driver’s...
North Charleston DUI Penalties 2026: Costs, License Suspension, and Defense Options
If you have been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in North Charleston, you need to make sure you know what is at stake in your case. You also need to make sure you know what defense options you have available. While DUI charges carry several penalties,...
Common Reasons Workers’ Comp Claims Are Denied and How to Appeal
When you get injured on the job, successfully filing for workers’ compensation benefits can be critical for maintaining your financial stability. If you don’t receive the benefits you deserve, not only will you have to cover your medical bills yourself, but you will...
2025 Year in Review: What You Need to Know if You Are Facing a DUI in North Charleston, SC
If you are facing a DUI in North Charleston, there is a lot you need to know. You have a lot at stake—and, while you have options available, you need to be very careful to ensure that you do not put your future at risk unnecessarily. As we do every year, we published...
ATV, UTV, and Golf Cart DUIs: What You Need to Know in South Carolina
In South Carolina, it is possible to face a drunk driving charge if you got pulled over while driving an ATV, UTV, or golf cart. Each of these qualifies as a vehicle under the state’s DUI law, and DUIs involving these vehicles carry the same penalties as DUIs...
Can I Be Fired Because of a DUI in South Carolina?
A conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) in South Carolina can have several serious consequences. Not only can a DUI conviction lead to fines, jail time, and other penalties, but it can also put your job (or even your career) at risk. If you lose your job...
Lowcountry Attorney
Rad S. Deaton
At the Deaton Law Firm, LLC, you get a knowledgeable attorney on your team who is committed to providing quality representation. Since opening the doors of his practice, Rad Deaton has provided confidential, timely, and cost-effective results for persons who face complex and serious legal problems in the legal areas of criminal defense, personal injury, DUI, and family law.
Mr. Deaton has gained a reputation in communities in South Carolina as a proactive legal advocate who’s not afraid to take creative approaches and use strategies that push conventions of the law to further his client’s interests. Mr. Deaton and his non-lawyer staff members will work hard to resolve your case in a timely and skillful manner.
Rad Deaton
Attorney
Rad Deaton
Attorney
Lowcountry Attorney
Rad S. Deaton
Deaton Law Firm, LLC, led by Rad Deaton, offers personalized legal representation in various practice areas, including criminal defense, personal injury, DUI, and family law. Since establishing the practice, Mr. Deaton has earned a reputation for providing confidential, timely, and cost-efficient results to his clients, steering them through some of life’s most formidable legal situations.
Mr. Deaton’s commitment to his clients goes beyond conventional strategies. He’s known for his innovative legal approaches and bold steps to prioritize the best interests of those he represents. Communities across South Carolina recognize Deaton Law Firm for its proactive advocacy and unwavering dedication. Every legal avenue available that’s pertinent and key to your case will be exhausted to defend you.
Trusted Criminal Defense Attorney in Charleston, SC
Facing criminal charges can throw your life upside down, and if you find yourself at that unfortunate juncture, the right attorney must represent you. This decision could determine whether you face the harshest penalty or secure a favorable verdict.