Did you know that, unlike the federal Bill of Rights, the South Carolina Constitution has an explicit right to privacy? Our constitutional right to privacy has been cited by the SC Supreme Court as providing greater protections than the Fourth Amendment in the...
In USAA Casualty v. Rafferty, the SC Supreme Court answered a certified question from the US District Court, holding that insurance companies cannot limit underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage to vehicles defined as “covered autos.” In a companion case from SC state...
Constructive possession is a “legal fiction” that allows the state to convict a person of drug “possession” when they did not actually “possess” the drugs… How does that work? Below, we will explain how constructive possession works in South Carolina, including: The...
What does “simple possession" mean in SC? Most people know that “simple possession” means getting charged with possession of a small amount of marijuana, but how much marijuana is “simple possession?” And what happens if you are charged with more than that amount? ...
Do you need a probate attorney? When your parent, spouse, or other loved one has passed away, and you find yourself in charge of handling their estate as executor or personal representative, it is overwhelming. I’ve been there, and I know. Your probate lawyer at...
What is a healthcare power of attorney and why do you need one? A power of attorney is a legal document that allows another person to make important decisions on your behalf. There are different types of powers of attorney used for different purposes depending on...
A durable power of attorney, sometimes referred to as a “financial power of attorney,” is when a principal gives authority to an agent to handle their affairs including their financial affairs. Powers of attorney are not just for the elderly, although they can be...
When a minor is accused of a crime in SC, their case is tried in the “juvenile court,” which is part of SC’s family court – the same court where divorces and child custody matters are decided. The process for juvenile court in SC is very different than the procedure...
How do you know when to settle your car accident claim? And when should you take your case to trial? There is no simple answer because it depends on the circumstances and facts of your case. Your car accident lawyer at Coastal Law will investigate your car accident,...
Most people probably think of DUI as one offense that applies when someone is drinking and driving – if the police think someone was driving a car while they were intoxicated, they will charge the person with driving under the influence (DUI). Did you know that there...