Stalking Charges Attorney in Myrtle Beach

Accused of Stalking? Legal Support Every Step of the Way

If you or someone you care about faces stalking charges in Myrtle Beach, working with a trusted stalking defense lawyer gives you a clear path forward. South Carolina law treats stalking as a serious criminal offense with penalties that may affect relationships, employment, and your reputation. You do not have to face this process alone. At T. Kirk Truslow, P.A., you receive compassionate, responsive support from a local attorney with more than three decades of criminal defense experience.

Stalking accusations often trigger stressful investigations and confusion about your rights. Laws in Horry County and throughout South Carolina use specific definitions and strict procedures for handling these cases, which means even small facts can have a major impact from the start. Whether officers arrested you after a misunderstanding or a private dispute, having a skilled defense lawyer in Myrtle Beach clarifies your choices and helps you avoid early mistakes.

If you are facing stalking charges, call immediately. T. Kirk Truslow, P.A. offers a free consultation and 24/7 availability to begin your defense. Contact a dedicated stalking charges attorney in Myrtle Beach at (843) 212-1116 or contact us online now.

Understanding South Carolina Stalking Laws

South Carolina law defines stalking not as a single act, but as a deliberate and sustained pattern of behavior. Understanding the technical requirements of this definition is the key to a successful defense.

Definition of Stalking

Stalking is defined as a pattern of words, whether verbal, written, or electronic, or a pattern of conduct that meets three essential requirements:

• No Legitimate Purpose: The conduct or words serve no purpose that is lawful or reasonable.
• Intent to Cause Fear: The conduct is intended to cause, and does cause, a targeted person (and would cause a reasonable person in their position) to fear:
  • Death or assault.
  • Bodily injury or criminal sexual contact.
  • Kidnapping of the victim or a family member.
  • Property damage to the victim or a family member.
• Pattern of Conduct: The law specifies that a "pattern" means two or more acts occurring over a period of time, however short, that evidences a continuity of purpose.

If the stalking is accompanied or followed by an act of violence, the charge is elevated to Aggravated Stalking, which carries even harsher penalties. A dedicated Myrtle Beach stalking defense lawyer meticulously examines the evidence to determine if the State can legally prove every element of this strict definition.

Stalking in Domestic Violence Cases and Protective Orders

In Myrtle Beach, stalking charges often arise within the context of a fractured or former domestic relationship. When the alleged victim is a current or former spouse, a household member, or a person with whom the accused has a child, the legal stakes are immediately multiplied.

South Carolina law recognizes that stalking and domestic violence often overlap. If an Order of Protection (issued by Family Court) or a Restraining Order (issued by a Magistrate) is already in effect, any subsequent act of alleged stalking carries a massive statutory enhancement.

Penalties of Stalking Convictions in Myrtle Beach

A stalking conviction in South Carolina carries felony penalties that escalate quickly, potentially leading to lengthy prison sentences.

Direct Criminal Penalties

• First Offense (Stalking): A felony, punishable by a maximum fine of $5,000 and up to 5 years in prison.
• Stalking While Under a Restraining Order: A felony, punishable by a maximum fine of $7,000 and up to 10 years in prison.
• Stalking With Prior Conviction (Harassment/Stalking): A felony, punishable by a maximum fine of $10,000 and up to 15 years in prison.

The maximum penalty exposure in these cases demands an immediate consultation with a qualified stalking charges attorney in Myrtle Beach.

Collateral Consequences and Social Stigma

• Restraining Orders: Upon arrest, a restraining order is often issued immediately, forcing you out of your residence and prohibiting all contact. Violation of this order is a separate criminal offense.
• Mental Health Evaluation: Before sentencing, the court may require a mental health evaluation and mandate treatment or counseling as part of the sentence.
• Firearm Rights: A felony stalking conviction results in the permanent loss of your right to possess firearms.
• Employment and Reputation: A felony conviction for a crime of this nature can terminate employment and create significant barriers to housing and professional licensing.

The South Carolina Defense Process for Stalking Charges

T. Kirk Truslow, P.A. provides decisive intervention in the Horry County judicial process, focusing on securing pretrial release and mitigating the damaging effects of the allegations.

• Immediate Contact and Bail Hearing: Because he offers free consultations and 24/7 availability, his firm is able to engage immediately to represent the client at the bond hearing, arguing for the lowest possible bail and challenging the imposition or scope of any restraining orders.
• Discovery and Investigation: His firm conducts a thorough investigation, including subpoenaing phone records, text messages, and social media history. He interviews witnesses to confirm alibis or a history of legitimate contact between the parties.
• Challenging the Complaint: He looks for technical flaws in the initial police report and the victim's sworn statement, specifically targeting the objective reasonableness of the fear and the ambiguity of the alleged "pattern" of behavior.
• Pre-Trial Negotiation: By leveraging constitutional challenges and technical deficiencies in the State's ability to prove the stalking elements, he often negotiates a reduction of the charge to a less severe offense, such as Harassment (which may be a misdemeanor) or a complete dismissal.

Why Trust T. Kirk Truslow, P.A. for Stalking Defense

Choosing the right stalking charges attorney in Myrtle Beach is crucial to defending your reputation and your future. Attorney T. Kirk Truslow brings more than 30 years of criminal trial experience in both state and federal courts to your side. 

He carefully examines each case, develops defense strategies grounded in a deep understanding of South Carolina law, and ensures every client receives personal attention. Unlike some firms that push quick plea deals, T. Kirk Truslow, P.A. remains dedicated to exploring every option for your defense. With 24/7 availability, you can reach the firm for support whenever you need it most.

Over the past three decades, Mr. Truslow has handled a variety of criminal cases, from first-time misdemeanor charges to complex and high-profile jury trials across Horry County and the greater Myrtle Beach area. Clients trust T. Kirk Truslow, P.A. because of thorough preparation, transparent communication, and an approach that values both privacy and urgency.

Steps to Take if Accused of Stalking in Myrtle Beach

• Do not contact the accuser: Reaching out to the person making the accusation could increase legal risk and result in new charges.
• Document your interactions: Save any messages, emails, or communications that may help clarify your position.
• Seek legal advice quickly: Early contact with a stalking charges lawyer in Myrtle Beach provides guidance on your next steps and helps protect your rights.
• Comply with all court orders: Follow all instructions from the court, including any restraining or protective orders issued.

Partnering with a local defense attorney ensures you make smart choices at every step, from arrest to resolution.

Contact a Stalking Charges Attorney in Myrtle Beach Today

If you’re facing stalking charges or want clear answers about your defense options in Myrtle Beach, reach out to T. Kirk Truslow, P.A. for a confidential conversation. You can expect honest, direct guidance—backed by experience earned over decades of criminal defense advocacy in South Carolina courts. Whether you need information, reassurance, or a plan to move forward, you will receive attentive service designed to protect your rights at each stage. 

Call (843) 212-1116 or reach out online today to take control of your situation and start building the best path ahead.