Query Sautter & Uricchio, LLC Legal Blog

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious criminal offense in South Carolina. Importantly, the same rules apply on the water — you can be charged with boating under the influence (BUI) while operating a boat. Further, if you cause a crash while driving a boat under the influence, you…

South Carolina has harsh drug laws, especially for distribution. Still, drug possession can (and often is) charged as a felony as well. At Query Sautter & Uricchio, LLC, we defend all types of drug cases. Our Charleston drug crimes defense attorney can explain the key differences between drug possession and…

Mediation can be a great tool for a divorce, custody case, or other family law dispute. It is a non-adversarial, flexible setting. At the same time, mediation does not work in every case. At Query Sautter & Uricchio, LLC, we have extensive experience with family mediation. A Charleston family law…

Alimony (spousal support) is a payment from one partner to the other during or after a divorce. Alimony laws exist at the state level. All 50 states have some form of alimony. However, the alimony laws vary considerably across jurisdictions. Our divorce attorney in Charleston explains what you need to…

Aggressive driving is dangerous driving. It can contribute to serious motor vehicle crashes. In South Carolina, an aggressive driver could face civil liability for an accident and, potentially, a criminal charge on the grounds of reckless driving. Here, our Charleston car accident attorney provides a guide to aggressive driving crashes…

Were you involved in a motor vehicle crash in Charleston or elsewhere in South Carolina? To the best of your ability, you should try to make a proactive effort to document the scene of the collision. Among other things, this includes taking extensive photos of the vehicle damage and the…

Are you preparing to end your marriage in South Carolina? You are not alone. Each year, tens of thousands of couples divorce in our state. Most of them do so on no-fault grounds. A no-fault divorce is a divorce in which neither party needs to prove that their spouse did…

Being accused of forgery is a serious legal matter that can lead to criminal charges, fines, and even jail time. Forgery typically involves the falsification of a signature, document, or other writing with the intent to deceive or defraud. Here, our Charleston criminal defense lawyer explains the steps that you…

According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), more than 30,000 people are hurt in motor vehicle collisions in the state each year. Following a crash, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages. These claims are generally defended by insurers. You should not accept the…

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) reports that more than 35,000 people were hurt in automobile accidents in the state in 2023 alone. Some of these injuries were serious or even catastrophic. Fortunately, many others were only relatively minor. Still, even a seemingly minor injury can disrupt your…

In South Carolina, criminal offenses are split into two broad categories: Felony offenses and misdemeanor offenses. At Query Sautter & Uricchio, LLC, we defend the full range of criminal charges. Here, our Charleston criminal defense lawyer explains the differences between felonies and misdemeanors in South Carolina. South Carolina Divides Crimes…

Are you dealing with a wife who is a narcissist or who has another similar personality disorder? That could be driving you to want to get a divorce. It is entirely understandable. Narcissists can be very challenging to deal with. You absolutely have the right to get divorced on personality/conduct…

A criminal record can hurt you in several different ways. Getting a record expunged can make a big difference. South Carolina has a process for expungement, but it is not open to all criminal records. This raises an important question: How many things can I get expunged from my record?…

Motorcyclists are vulnerable. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 80 percent of the time a motorcycle crash happens, the rider suffers a significant physical injury. At Query Sauter & Associates, LLC, we are strong advocates for motorcycle safety. Here, our Charleston motorcycle accident attorney highlights the main…

Hurt in a crash in a company vehicle in South Carolina? It is crucial that you know what to do to protect your rights and your interests, including how to prove negligence. Company vehicle accident claims can be especially complicated. There may be both a personal injury case and a…

The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) reports that nearly ten percent of state residents report that they have personally received illicit drugs within the last month. Each year, thousands of people in our state face criminal drug charges. The severity of drug-related offenses—and the severity of the punishment—vary…

Lane splitting is the practice of a motorcycle rider riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. Under South Carolina law, lane splitting by motorcycles is illegal. Riders cannot lawfully do it in or around Charleston. If lane splitting causes a crash, a motorcyclist could potentially be denied compensation. However,…

Hurt in a truck accident in South Carolina? You are not alone. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), there were more than 3,000 semi-truck accidents statewide in 2022 alone. After a crash with a large commercial truck, you have the right to seek compensation for the…

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) reports that an average of four people are hurt in motor vehicle collisions in the state on an hourly basis. Car accident victims need the maximum compensation. You may be wondering: Can I seek compensation for lost wages after a car crash?…

According to data cited by the University of Michigan, as many as half of U.S. marriages eventually end in divorce. A divorce can happen for a wide range of different reasons. Indeed, every relationship is personal. With that being said, there are some common issues that are cited again and…

Motorcyclists are vulnerable. As found by researchers at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 80% of motorcycle crashes result in rider injuries. All motorcyclists need to know the rules of the road. You may be wondering: Is motorcycle lane splitting in South Carolina? The answer is “no”—it is…

The National Floor Safety Institute reports that there are more than one million slip and fall accidents that require professional medical care each year. If you were hurt in a slip and fall on private property, you may have a claim for compensation. Here, our Charleston slip and fall accident…

Arrested and charged with a drug-related offense in South Carolina? It is a very serious matter. Many drug charges are felonies. They can carry severe criminal penalties. You need to know exactly what you are facing. Within this article, our Charleston drug defense lawyers provide an overview of the penalties…

Are you getting divorced in South Carolina? You are far from alone. According to data from the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH), there are approximately 10,000 divorces finalized in the state each year. You may be ready to enter a new relationship—maybe even get remarried. This raises an…

A pardon is an official act that “forgives” a person for a criminal offense. In South Carolina, a person who receives a “pardon” has all of their civil rights restored. How common are pardons? An average of 300 to 400 are issued in South Carolina each year. Here, our Charleston…

A felony offense is a serious crime. Under South Carolina law (SC Code § 16-1-10), there are six different categories of felonies: Class A felonies, Class B felonies, Class C felonies, Class D felonies, Class E felonies, and Class F felonies. The maximum penalties for a felony offense will depend,…

For parents who have young kids or teenagers, a divorce or separation can be especially difficult. Getting a custody order or agreement in place can bring some relief. Of course, life changes. In South Carolina, child custody agreements can be modified to address these changes. Here, our Charleston child custody…

Pedestrian accidents can cause serious injuries. Unfortunately, South Carolina has one of the worst pedestrian safety records in the entire country. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), South Carolina has the fifth-worst fatality rate in the country in 2022. Only New Mexico, Arizona, Louisiana, and…

A criminal record can cause serious problems for a person. It could make it harder to get a job or even rent an apartment. For that reason, getting record expungement can be advantageous. South Carolina has a specific process for expungement. It is notoriously complex. Unfortunately, not all records can…

Are you preparing to end your marriage in Charleston or elsewhere in South Carolina? It is a difficult thing to do. At the same time, it is sometimes the right decision. Unfortunately, an uncooperative or difficult to work with spouse can make the divorce process even more stressful. This raises…

Evidence is key to any criminal case. Police and prosecutors take evidence very seriously. If a person is accused of tampering with evidence—or otherwise interfering with an investigation—they could potentially be arrested and charged with a serious crime. Within this article, our Charleston criminal defense lawyer provides an overview of…

Highway safety matters. Safe, careful driving is especially important in work zones. According to data cited by the National Safety Council (NSC), 37,701 people were injured and 891 people were killed in highway work zone collisions in the United States in 2022 alone. These accidents can happen for a wide…

Nighttime driving is inherently hazardous. The data is clear: More motor vehicle collisions happen after the sun goes down. While far less driving happens at night, there are still many crashes. At Query Sautter & Associates, LLC, we have the skills and experience to handle all types of nighttime driving…

Are you preparing for a divorce in South Carolina? You may have a lot of questions about your options. Getting a divorce can be especially difficult if you cannot find your spouse. Generally, you have a duty to serve divorce papers on your spouse before you can move forward with…

Money laundering is a serious criminal offense. In South Carolina, engaging in money laundering in excess of $500 within a 30-day period can result in a felony criminal charge. At Query Sautter & Associates, LLC, we defend money laundering cases. Here, our Charleston white-collar criminal defense lawyer provides an overview…

Were you involved in a crash in a company vehicle in Charleston or elsewhere in South Carolina? Whether you were in the company car, in another vehicle, or a pedestrian/cyclist, it is imperative that you know how to protect your rights. At Query Sautter & Associates, LLC, we handle car…

Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents happen. According to data provided by the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), there were 2,086 motorcycle crashes reported in the state in 2022. As riders are inherently exposed, a crash can lead to serious injuries. Defensive driving as a motorcyclist in South Carolina is a…

Distracted driving is dangerous driving. There is perhaps no more risky form of distracted driving than texting and driving. It is against the law in South Carolina. A driver who texts while behind the wheel puts everyone else at serious risk. They can face serious consequences. Here, our Charleston traffic…

A car crash can happen at any location and at any time. According to data provided by the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), more than 121,000 motor vehicle collisions were reported in 2022. All communities in our state are affected by crashes—Charleston is certainly no exception. Further, there…

Although you can technically refuse a breathalyzer if you are pulled over by a police officer, the decision comes with significant consequences. Due to South Carolina’s implied consent law, a person operating a motor vehicle within the state has already complied to submit blood alcohol testing. Hence, refusing a breathalyzer…

Automobile accidents are a leading cause of injuries and fatalities worldwide. In 2022, 5.2 million people had to receive medical treatment following an auto accident, with over 46,000 people succumbing to their injuries. In this blog, our Charleston car accident attorneys discuss the most common types of injuries that you…

Retirement is often referred to as “financial suicide,” forcing you to divide marital assets, even if your spouse did not contribute equally to your finances. Many people are not told that their retirement funds are subject to division during divorce, including pension and 401(K)s. If you are getting a divorce,…

A car accident can happen when you least expect it, resulting in serious injuries. In 2022, there was an injury collision every 15.4 minutes in South Carolina, resulting in a total of 2,130 serious injury collisions in the same year.  Whether it be answering a text, racing to get to…

Whether you are arrested for a state or federal offense, if the police plan on detaining you for questioning, they must read you your Miranda rights. A police officer who forgets to read you your Miranda rights will be unable to use any testimony that you provide or evidence that…

The most important thing in the world to you is being a part of your child’s life. The moment that you realize you may not be able to see your child daily, you may feel panicked. If you are seeking visitation or other legal rights, you may be wondering what…

In 2022, The Palmetto State was home to 143,426 total traffic collisions, with 2,130 serious injury collisions taking place. If you have been in a car crash with another driver who readily admits fault, the motorist may try to offer you cash upfront. If someone does offer you cash, this…

Lacking the protection of an enclosed vehicle, 82,687 motorcyclists experienced injuries in a recent year. Unfortunately, not all injuries are readily apparent, with symptoms only presenting hours or days following a crash. Known as a delayed injury, motorcyclists may be unaware that they are injured and not attempt to seek…

There is more than one way to end a marriage. Generally, a married couple must seek a divorce to end the legally binding marriage contract between them. There are, however, instances when a marriage can be annulled, which – for legal purposes – means it never happened in the first…

If you are facing a divorce in South Carolina, property division is a major consideration, and how debt is treated in the equation is another concern. The equitable – or fair – division of property in a South Carolina divorce is always based on the unique circumstances involved, and having…

In South Carolina, a first-time DUI charge carries less hefty fines and penalties than subsequent charges, but there is nothing minor about the consequences you’ll face. If you’ve been charged with a first DUI offense, the most important move you can make is reaching out for the trusted legal representation…

In the past, officers’ statements about arrests were generally considered beyond reproach unless there was considerable proof to the contrary. In the age of a smartphone on every person and a bodycam on every officer, this is changing. We’ve all seen news clips of bystanders using their phones to record…

These days, everybody seems to be wearing headphones or earbuds while working out. Although convenient, headphones isolate pedestrians from the outside world, putting them at a greater risk of getting hurt. If you are a pedestrian, you should think twice before using headphones while mobile. Keep reading to learn about…

A short trip to the movies is rudely cut short when you are rear-ended. You suffer minor cuts and bruises but otherwise feel fine. You and the other driver exchange contact and insurance information, but neither of you bothers to call the police. Both of you get into your vehicles…

You drop your kids off at your soon-to-be ex-spouse’s house, not knowing what they have in store for this weekend. Your spouse parks them in front of the television, choosing to play bass guitar over spending time with them. On Saturday morning, your spouse forces the kids to get up…

If you are at least 21 years of age in South Carolina, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or greater. If you are under 21 years of age, you are driving illegally with a blood alcohol level of 0.04% or greater….

Defined as crimes that have a financial motive or involve a power play, white-collar crimes are on the rise. Even though white-collar crimes are non-violent in nature, white-collar crimes are estimated to cost victims anywhere from $426 billion to $1.7 trillion annually. Offenders may be charged under state or federal…

In fiscal year 2022, 1,001 individuals were prosecuted for money laundering. Money laundering is an increasing concern in our society and is considered an offense committed by wealthy businessmen and politicians. Money laundering involves taking illegally earned money and making it appear as though it was earned through legitimate means….

In cases in which parents cannot come to an agreement on a visitation schedule, it is left to a judge’s discretion. When a visitation schedule is issued by the court, parents are legally obligated to follow it. Many people may not be aware that a child cannot refuse visitation until…

If you are contemplating divorce, you may be thinking of moving out of your primary residence. While getting a divorce can be an emotional time for anyone, if you decide to leave prematurely, it may create more issues than it resolves. In this blog, our South Carolina divorce attorneys discuss…

Child support doesn’t automatically increase or decrease in the State of South Carolina. Instead, a modification that’s based on a substantial change, such as a significant pay raise, must be sought. Because the income of the parent who pays child support is a key component of every child support order,…

If you’ve been involved in a car accident that was caused by another motorist, it’s stressful enough. If, however, the other driver can’t produce a driver’s license when you engage in the post-accident exchange of contact information – which includes exchanging driver’s licenses and proof of insurance – it makes…

Distracted drivers are a major concern on our roadways, and motorists who are more interested in their phones than in navigating the road safely put everyone at increased risk. If you’ve suffered an injury due to a driver who was on their phone at the time of the accident, you…

South Carolina is a beautiful state with many scenic drives, but it also sees its fair share of traffic and dangerous traffic accidents. There are specific roads, highways, and intersections throughout the state that are particularly prone to serious accidents, and having a better understanding of where these hot spots…

Motorists accept an immense responsibility when they drive, and part of this responsibility includes exercising due care, which includes maintaining their vehicles in roadworthy condition. Car accidents are exceptionally dangerous, and the claims that follow are legally complex. If you’ve suffered an injury due to another driver’s negligence, an experienced…

South Carolina has specific laws about operating a bike, including requirements about lights when you ride at night. These laws are designed to help protect bicyclists from the immense physical, financial, and emotional consequences of a bike accident. If you or someone you care about has suffered an injury in…

If you’re facing a divorce, you and your divorcing spouse are going through an especially difficult time, but the consequences of your divorce can reverberate throughout your extended family. While children can take the matter of divorce especially hard, it doesn’t stop there. Your parents – your children’s grandparents on…

When you get behind the wheel of your vehicle in the State of South Carolina, you take on the immense responsibility that goes along with this privilege, and there is an implied consent law that applies. DUI charges come with serious legal and social consequences that can disrupt your future…

In the State of South Carolina, motorists are not required to report every minor accident on the road to the authorities – there is a protocol for car accidents that cause very little damage. It’s also important to keep in mind, however, that even fender benders can lead to considerable…

Witnessing a hit-and-run accident is stressful, and at that moment, you may have no idea how best to proceed. If this is the challenging position you are in, however, there are things you can do to help, and the person left by the side of the road is lucky you’re…

When a case that involves child custody, such as divorce, legal separation, or paternity proceedings, concludes, a child support order will always be involved. Child support amounts are dependent on specific factors that courts determine by using a guideline calculator. These days, using mediation or other alternative dispute resolution options…

The term white-collar crime refers to a broad range of crimes that are predominantly fraudulent and financially motivated. The majority of white-collar crimes are prosecuted at the federal level and charged as felonies. A federal white-collar crime conviction carries an extended prison sentence and costly fines. For example: Money Laundering…

If you have been injured in an accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, you’re likely facing mounting medical bills and may be experiencing lost earnings. In such a situation, it’s only natural to want your personal injury claim to proceed as quickly as possible. It’s important to note,…

Charleston is a charming city that is very inviting for bicyclists. When you get out on your bike, you do yourself a world of good, and it’s hard not to have a good time doing it. If, however, you’re injured by a negligent driver in the process, the losses you…

Passengers are not in control of the vehicle, but their actions and behaviors can significantly impact the driver’s ability to operate the car safely. In most cases, a passenger will not be held liable for causing a car accident. However, in unique circumstances, a passenger could be held responsible for…

Being involved in an accident can be a traumatic experience and being found partially at fault for an accident can be particularly frustrating. Liability issues can have a significant impact on the outcome of a personal injury case, and it is essential to seek the assistance of a personal injury…

In Charleston, South Carolina, pedestrian accidents are an unfortunate reality, often leading to serious injuries or fatalities. At Query Sautter & Uricchio, LLC, we have observed various factors contributing to these incidents. Understanding these causes is crucial for both pedestrians and drivers to prevent such accidents and for victims to…

Being injured in an accident due to someone else’s negligence can be a disorienting and overwhelming experience. Fortunately, a person injured due to another person’s reckless or intentional acts may seek compensation for their injuries and losses by filing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party. However, the law…

South Carolina roadways are especially fatal to pedestrians and rank as one of the deadliest states for pedestrians. Based on preliminary data from the Governor’s Highway Safety Association’s (GHSA) report, 174 pedestrians were killed in South Carolina in 2022. As with many types of road accidents, the cause of a…

No South Carolina business owner wants to find themselves in a commercial business dispute. A dispute brings the possibility of a lawsuit, thousands of dollars in legal fees and loss of the business. Some situations are more likely than others to cause a dispute....

Doing business in South Carolina involves many variables, like when the market suddenly turns against you, your business services decline in popularity, or your business booms. However, if a dispute arises, there may be questions about the total amount your business...

A business valuation is a process that determines the economic value of your South Carolina company. While it may seem like a task for large corporations or during specific situations such as mergers or acquisitions, getting a business valuation can provide valuable...

South Carolina has over 400,000 small businesses that must protect themselves from credit card fraud. It’s an issue that many small businesses struggle to combat. Forbes Advisor reported 33 percent of small businesses in the US have been impacted by credit card fraud....

It is a common practice in South Carolina for business contracts to stipulate that the parties involved will settle legal disputes through arbitration instead of litigation. Arbitration is usually faster and less expensive than taking a case to court. Mediation...