Computer Crime Attorney in Myrtle Beach

Facing Cybercrime Accusations? Secure Your Rights

In today's digital landscape, law enforcement in Myrtle Beach relies on electronic evidence and advanced investigative tools when building cases related to alleged computer crimes. If you face a digital crime charge, you need guidance from a computer crime attorney in Myrtle Beach who understands how these cases are prosecuted and how quickly your reputation and future can be affected.

Technology-driven criminal charges often move quickly, and both local authorities and federal agencies may investigate. Our firm follows changes in South Carolina's computer crime laws and keeps clients informed about what to expect as cases proceed through the Myrtle Beach system. Responsive communication and deep experience with criminal defense help you face the process with confidence.

Call a trusted computer crime attorney in Myrtle Beach at (843) 212-1116 or reach out online now. T. Kirk Truslow, P.A. is here to help—Free consultations available 24/7.

Types of Computer Crime Cases Handled by T. Kirk Truslow, P.A.

South Carolina's primary statute governing computer offenses is the Computer Crime Act (§16−16−20 et seq.). This Act criminalizes the willful, knowing, and malicious use of a computer or network to commit financial crimes or cause damage, and it applies to both personal computers and corporate networks.

South Carolina and federal authorities take computer-related criminal allegations seriously, with penalties differing based on intent, harm caused, and the type of technology involved. 

When you work with a computer crime lawyer in Myrtle Beach, your defense may address:

• Unlawful access: Accusations of gaining entry into computers, servers, or networks without permission
• Hacking & data theft: Charges of stealing, intercepting, or misusing confidential information
• Internet fraud: Claims of using online platforms for scams or dishonest transactions
• Cyber harassment or online stalking
• Distribution of prohibited or disputed digital content
• Identity theft or impersonation involving computers or digital records

Technology cases in Myrtle Beach can involve complicated digital evidence, such as computer logs, IP addresses, or encrypted files. Prosecutors may work alongside specialized digital investigators when attempting to prove alleged offenses. 

By hiring a defense team with courtroom experience handling technical evidence, you prepare for all stages of your defense—especially as South Carolina's statutes on computer crime continue to evolve. An experienced advocate will help you understand these changes and ensure your case receives the attention required for fair consideration.

Penalties and Gradations of South Carolina Cybercrimes

In South Carolina, cybercrime penalties are based on the amount of financial loss or gain. Even a first offense can result in a felony charge if the value involved is significant. 

Understanding these gradations is critical, as penalties escalate quickly with the dollar amount.

• First Degree (§16−16−20) – Financial loss or gain exceeding $10,000; Class E Felony; up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $50,000.
• Second Degree (§16−16−20) – Financial loss or gain over $1,000 but under $10,000; misdemeanor (first offense); up to 1 year in prison and fines up to $10,000.
• Third Degree (§16−16−20) – Financial loss or gain of $1,000 or less; misdemeanor; up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $200.

Second or subsequent convictions for Second-Degree Computer Crime are classified as a Class F Felony. Furthermore, convictions for online child solicitation carry mandatory, long prison terms and lifetime sex offender registration.

Collateral Consequences

A cybercrime conviction creates an indelible record that can destroy professional opportunities:

• Employment Barriers: Convictions for fraud or computer-related felonies immediately disqualify individuals from jobs in finance, technology, and any sector involving sensitive data or fiduciary duties.
• Reputational Damage: The online nature of the offense often results in rapid public exposure, leading to permanent social and professional stigma.
• Loss of Licenses: Professionals (e.g., lawyers, accountants, security analysts) face suspension or revocation of licenses for convictions involving moral turpitude or dishonesty.

The South Carolina Criminal Defense Process for Cybercrimes

Defending a computer crime case is an intricate process that demands a defense attorney who can understand technical jargon and translate it into a legal defense strategy.

• Immediate Digital Preservation: Digital evidence is easily corrupted or deleted. Our firm moves quickly to preserve electronic records, server logs, and devices that may contain exculpatory evidence.
• Forensic Investigation: We often consult with certified digital forensic specialists to challenge the prosecution’s evidence on technical grounds, including:
• Chain of Custody: Questioning how the digital data was collected, preserved, and stored by law enforcement to ensure it was not altered.
• IP Address Misidentification: Arguing that the IP address tracing or remote access merely identifies the computer, not the user, suggesting mistaken identity or that the network was unsecured.
• Challenging Intent: Our firm focuses on negating the required mental state of "willfully, knowingly, and maliciously." For instance, proving the access was accidental, or that the client's intent was not to defraud but, for example, to test security systems without malicious purpose.
• Negotiation for Lower Grade: In cases involving loss, our firm aggressively challenges the monetary valuation to argue for a reduction in the crime's degree, potentially reducing a felony to a misdemeanor or a state charge to a local ordinance violation.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Computer Crimes Defense

The digital nature of these charges requires a high degree of technical competence that general practitioners lack. T. Kirk Truslow, P.A. approaches every cybercrime case with a technologically informed, aggressive defense strategy.

• Suppression of Evidence: We vigorously challenge the constitutional legality of search warrants used to seize computers, phones, and digital accounts. If the search warrant lacked probable cause or exceeded its scope, we move to suppress the digital evidence, which often results in the dismissal of the entire cybercrime case.
• Attacking the "Unauthorized" Element: Our firm investigates whether the client had implied permission or a pre-existing relationship that allowed access, thereby negating the core element of the crime.
• Mitigation and Rehabilitation: Where the evidence is strong, we focus on presenting a comprehensive mitigation package to the Horry County Solicitor’s Office, seeking alternatives to incarceration such as probation, house arrest, or community service that avoids prison time.

Discover What Sets Our Computer Crime Lawyers in Myrtle Beach Apart

With over 30 years in criminal defense, T. Kirk Truslow, P.A. brings focused representation to clients facing cybercrime charges in Myrtle Beach. Our history includes countless jury trials, complex appeals, and notable digital crime cases in both state and federal courts. This strong trial background means we prepare every case thoroughly and advocate for your rights without shortcuts.

Clients throughout Horry County and along the Grand Strand come to us because we tailor defense strategies to fit their unique needs. Our team takes the time to explore digital evidence and explain every legal option, from preliminary hearings through final decisions. 

We remain available 24/7 so you can reach an experienced computer crime lawyer in Myrtle Beach whenever concerns arise. This level of accessibility and commitment strengthens our clients’ trust during times of uncertainty.

Your Path Forward: Working with a Computer Crime Attorney in Myrtle Beach

Our approach at T. Kirk Truslow, P.A. involves comprehensive review and individualized planning. 

Here’s how the defense process often unfolds for cybercrime charges:

• Personal review: We gather details and listen carefully to your account to ensure all angles are considered.
• Case-specific strategy: Your lawyer develops a targeted plan centered on your priorities and the particulars of your situation.
• Clear communication: We explain steps, terminology, and possible outcomes so you remain informed and prepared throughout your case.
• Attention to digital evidence: Our team understands the intricacies of handling data, electronic devices, and online records.
• Preparation for court: When your case moves toward a hearing or trial, thorough preparation offers peace of mind and the chance for a fair result.

Throughout this process, your attorney keeps you involved and addresses your questions so you remain confident in your choices. Our firm’s experience with local courts across Horry County means we can anticipate how Myrtle Beach judges and prosecutors may handle specific digital evidence or recent updates in the law.

Contact a Computer Crime Lawyer in Myrtle Beach Today

When you contact T. Kirk Truslow, P.A., you connect with a team that brings decades of trial experience and a passion for client-centered defense. Our office provides straightforward answers and attentive communication so you never feel left in the dark. 

Take control of your situation by calling (843) 212-1116 or reaching out online for a confidential consultation with a computer crime lawyer in Myrtle Beach who values your future, listens to your concerns, and supports you every step of the way.