WJ Sims Law — Columbia, SC
A Strong Defense Starts Here
A criminal charge — whether a misdemeanor or a felony — can have lasting consequences on your employment, your housing, and your reputation. WJ Sims Law provides tenacious, strategic criminal defense representation to protect your rights at every stage of the process, from arrest through trial or resolution.
Criminal Defense Practice Areas
DUI & DWI Defense
Facing a DUI charge in South Carolina can mean license suspension, heavy fines, and even jail time. We build a strong defense from day one.
South Carolina takes DUI charges seriously, and a conviction can follow you for years — affecting your job, your insurance, and your freedom. WJ Sims Law examines every aspect of your stop and arrest, from the legality of the traffic stop to the accuracy of field sobriety and breathalyzer tests.
We work to suppress improperly obtained evidence, challenge procedural errors, and negotiate with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or dismissal where possible. If your case goes to trial, we are prepared to fight aggressively on your behalf.
Drug Charges
Drug possession, distribution, and trafficking charges carry severe penalties in South Carolina. A skilled defense can make all the difference.
South Carolina drug laws impose strict penalties that vary based on the type and quantity of substance involved. Whether you are facing a simple possession charge or a more serious distribution or trafficking allegation, the stakes are high and the time to act is now.
WJ Sims Law scrutinizes the circumstances of your arrest — including the legality of any search and seizure — to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case. We explore every available defense strategy, including diversion programs and treatment alternatives that may help you avoid a permanent criminal record.
Assault & Violent Crimes
Assault and violent crime charges can result in significant prison time. We provide a vigorous defense to protect your rights and your future.
Being charged with assault, battery, or another violent offense is a serious matter that demands immediate legal attention. South Carolina prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively, and the consequences of a conviction — including prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record — can be life-altering.
WJ Sims Law investigates the facts of your case thoroughly, challenges witness credibility, and asserts all applicable defenses including self-defense and defense of others. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation or trial.
Theft & Property Crimes
Theft, burglary, and property crime charges range from misdemeanors to serious felonies. We fight to protect your record and your reputation.
Theft and property crime charges in South Carolina span a wide range — from shoplifting and petty theft to burglary and grand larceny. Even a misdemeanor conviction can affect your employment prospects and housing opportunities for years to come.
WJ Sims Law carefully reviews the evidence against you, challenges the prosecution's proof of intent, and works to minimize the impact on your life. In appropriate cases, we pursue diversion programs or plea agreements that avoid a permanent felony conviction.
Expungements
A past arrest or conviction doesn't have to define your future. We help eligible clients clear their records and move forward.
South Carolina law allows certain arrests and convictions to be expunged — removed from your public criminal record — giving you a fresh start. Eligibility depends on the nature of the offense, the outcome of your case, and how much time has passed since the conviction or arrest.
WJ Sims Law guides you through the expungement process from start to finish, determining your eligibility, preparing the necessary petitions, and representing you at any required hearings. A clean record can open doors to employment, housing, and educational opportunities that a criminal history would otherwise close.
Traffic Violations & License Issues
Traffic tickets and license suspensions can have lasting consequences. We help you protect your driving privileges and your record.
A traffic violation may seem minor, but accumulating points on your license, facing suspension, or dealing with a reckless driving charge can affect your insurance rates, your employment, and your daily life. WJ Sims Law handles a full range of traffic matters in South Carolina courts.
We contest tickets, negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges, and represent clients at DMV hearings to protect their driving privileges. Whether you are facing a first offense or a pattern of violations, we work to find the most favorable resolution available.
Know Your Rights
- You have the right to remain silent — use it until your attorney is present
- You have the right to an attorney before and during any questioning
- You are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt
- Evidence obtained through an unlawful search may be suppressed
- You have the right to a fair and speedy trial by jury
- A charge is not a conviction — the right defense can change the outcome
Charged With a Crime? Call Us Now.
Time is critical in criminal cases. Contact WJ Sims Law today for a confidential consultation and let us start building your defense.