Domestic Violence Lawyer

Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, North Charleston

Facing a Domestic Violence Charge in Charleston, SC?

People turn to the domestic violence lawyers at Kulp & Elliott when their freedom, job and reputation are in jeopardy.

For over 30 years we’ve represented thousands (1,000’s) of people facing domestic violence charges in South Carolina.

The domestic violence lawyers at Kulp & Elliott will fight for your rights and do everything possible to get your domestic violence charges dropped.

Our domestic violence attorneys are assertive and use creative and aggressive strategies to obtain favorable results for our clients.

In addition, Timothy Kulp, our founding partner, is one of only seven board-certified criminal defense specialists in the entire State of South Carolina.

Our firm’s experience in both State and Federal court allow us to provide some of the highest quality representation in South Carolina.

“I am extremely happy with the legal service provided by both Mr.Kulp and Mr. Elliot. I would recommend their legal counsel to family and friends.”

– Patrick

What sets our domestic violence lawyers apart?

Kulp & Elliot continues to thrive because we’re highly motivated, hardworking and think outside the box.

  • Our team includes a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist–one of only seven in SC.
  • We have experience on all sides of the law: defense attorney, prosecutor, judge and FBI special agent.
  • Our team works together to ensure the best results for our clients.
  • We’ve been in Charleston over three decades, so we know everyone in the legal system–judges, cops and lawyers.
  • We’re available for our clients when they need us. We don’t hold banking hours.

Understanding what you’re up against when facing domestic violence charges in South Carolina is important.

Knowing that you have an experienced domestic violence attorney on your side is critical.

Ready to Speak with a
Domestic Violence Lawyer in Charleston, SC?

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Common Questions about
Domestic Violence in SC

What is Criminal Domestic Violence (CDV)?

Effective June 4, 2015, CDV laws changed in South Carolina. CDV charges are no longer categorized based on the number of offenses. Now, they are viewed in terms of “degrees”–as in first, second and third degree murder.

For example, first degree CDV is now considered a violent crime as a result of the revisions to the law.

CDV stands for Criminal Domestic Violence. A person can be charged with CDV for causing or threatening physical harm against a member of their own household. According to the revised law, “household member” includes a current or former spouse, people who have a child in common and people who live or lived together.

CDVHAN stands for Criminal Domestic Violence of a High and Aggravated Nature. This charge is brought against a person who commits a domestic violence offense under extreme circumstances that show disregard for the value of human life. CDVHAN also applies to cases in which a person violates a protection order and commits first degree domestic violence.

The consequences for CDV vary depending on the degree of the offense and on whether or not this is a first offense. Similar to murder charges, first degree CDV is the most serious offense. As a result, it also carries the harshest penalties.

  • First Degree: A felony offense resulting in up to 10 years in prison.
  • Second Degree: A misdemeanor offense resulting in fines between $2500 and $5000 &/or up to three years in prison.
  • Third Degree: A misdemeanor offense resulting in fines between $1000 and $2500 &/or up to 90 days in jail.

Possibly. Under certain circumstances the prosecutor or the court, if appropriate may dismiss the charges. It’s a common misconception that the victim can drop the charges. The victim may request that charges be dropped but ultimately it’s up to the prosecutor or the court.

Yes. A charge of domestic violence in the first degree is a felony. This charge typically results when a person:

  • Causes great bodily injury to a member of their household
  • Wields a firearm
  • Restricts the victim’s breathing
  • Commits the offense in the presence of a minor
  • Knows or should know that the victim is pregnant
  • Has two or more prior convictions of domestic violence within 10 years of the current offense

No. People convicted of domestic violence are prohibited from shipping, transporting, receiving or possessing a firearm or ammunition according to South Carolina law. This is true even if your Domestic Violence charge is classified as a misdemeanor.

A No Contact Order means exactly what it says–that the person charged with domestic violence cannot have any contact with the victim, directly or indirectly. All forms of electronic communications are prohibited. That means no texts, phone calls, emails or Facebook messages.

In-person communication is not allowed either, not even through a third party. The accused cannot talk to the victim or send messages to the victim through a friend or relative. The accused can’t even be in the same public place as the victim; if that happens, the accused has to leave.

Here’s What Our
Charleston Domestic Violence Lawyers
Will Do For You

At Kulp & Elliott, we represent people who’ve been charged with Criminal Domestic Violence (CDV) in and around Charleston, SC.

Our defense lawyers have handled thousands of cases just like yours. That means we have the know-how to guide you through this tough time — so that you can begin to put your life back together.

We’ll work with you to devise a well-planned strategy to help you:

  • Avoid jail time
  • Minimize fines
  • Avoid travel restrictions
  • Maintain your right to bear arms

Not Many Domestic Violence Attorney’s Can Make This Claim

Tim Kulp’s Qualifications: What sets him apart?

  • Over 36 years of legal experience
  • Speaker, educator and mentor to other attorneys throughout South Carolina
  • Licensed to practice in local, state and federal courts
  • One of seven in SC who is Board Certified in Criminal Trial Advocacy
  • Previous experience as a Judge, Prosecutor, and FBI Special Agent
  • Has represented thousands of individuals charged with criminal offenses in SC courts
  • A Founder of the National College of DUI Defense

Domestic Violence Lawyer, Timothy Kulp frequently assists clients with criminal offenses in the Charleston, North Charleston, Hanahan, Mt. Pleasant, Folly Beach and surrounding areas in SC.

Contact us today, and let’s discuss your case, your options, and the necessary steps to get your life back on track.

Ready to Speak with a
Domestic Attorney in Charleston, SC?

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The Man for the Job

“ The best phone call that I have ever placed was to Tim Kulp. After going to a concert, at which I had 2 drinks, I accidentally ran a red turn signal. I blew under, and figured I could get out of the DUI myself. 2 days before the court date, I got nervous, and luckily I called Mr. Kulp. This decision saved me thousands of dollars, put me at ease and saved me from the embarrassment that comes with being convicted of a crime. People who you genuinely trust only come along a few times in a lifetime. Attorney Kulp is one of these people in my life. And if you may ever need it, I have full confidence that Tim will able to take care of a bad moment in your life. If you’re in the Charleston area, just got into a little trouble with the police, I urge you to STOP your search for a lawyer now. Save your time, and your record, call Tim Kulp. He will do the best job an attorney can do. Mr. Kulp, Austin & the rest of your staff, with the utmost sincerity, thank you- Adam. “
- Adam, a Criminal Defense client

Excellent Attorney!

“ I was out of state and needed a local attorney. I was referred to Mr. Kulp. I was concerned because I did not know him, nor his ability. I can say without reservations, he is an outstanding attorney. He explains things well, makes you feel like you are the only case he is working on, very responsive, and works hard for you! I was very pleased with my outcome. If you need a good attorney, don’t take any chances by not choosing him! “
- Robin, a Criminal Defense client

Great Attorney, Great Results

“ Mr. Kulp did a great job on my case. He was very response to me by email and really took care of me. I know he has handled all kinds of cases and has 30+ years of experience and it really showed with my case. His knowledge of the law and experience in Charleston really made the difference for me. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone I know. “
- Anonymous, Criminal Defense client

More Testimonials

* The Rules of Professional Conduct require disclosure that this is a “Testimonial” about the attorney. Please be aware that any result achieved on behalf of one client in one matter does not necessarily indicate similar results can be obtained for other clients.

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