South Carolina Victims' Rights Attorney
The criminal justice system is not set up for the victims. In a trial, the rights of the accused take priority. The victim's life is publicly exposed, and the defense attorney's job is to disprove the charges and call the victim's credibility into question. The judge, the prosecutor, the defense and the jury make all the decisions.
Beaufort lawyer Jim Brown offers representation in the fledgling area of victim's rights representation. If you were the victim of a violent crime, suffered a large financial loss or a member of your family was killed, the Law Offices of Jim Brown offers you a say in the proceedings and the outcome.
Criminal proceedings — As the victim, you have the right to your own lawyer. You have the right to see all documents related to the prosecution. Mr. Brown will advise you about what is likely to happen in the case and can counsel you during any questioning, depositions or courtroom testimony. He can ensure that the prosecutor considers your wishes in bringing charges or plea negotiations. Lastly, he can represent you in addressing the court and the defendant at disposition (sentencing) to make a victim's impact statement.
Private prosecution — In South Carolina, there is a little-known victim's right to have a private attorney try your case to make sure the job is done right. (The elected prosecutor must agree to this arrangement.) Jim Brown is a respected criminal defense attorney who has tried hundreds of cases, including 20 homicides. He devotes his considerable trial court experience, his insights into defense tactics and a thorough approach to the investigation to see that justice is served.
Civil litigation — Mr. Brown will vigorously pursue monetary damages in a civil lawsuit against the criminal defendant and any other person or entity that enabled the crime through negligence or knowingly aiding and abetting. He has successfully sued for physical injury or for the victim's economic losses (lost wages, medical treatment) and non-economic losses (emotional damages). He has also sued employers for sexual harassment and government entities for civil rights violations (false arrest, malicious prosecution, police brutality).
Media Relations — In high-profile criminal cases, reporters and camera crews may follow and harass the victim in pursuit of a story, even camp outside your residence or place of employment.
Mr. Brown can serve as a personal spokesperson or family spokesperson to field media inquiries and draw away some of the unwelcome attention. Throughout the criminal proceedings or after the verdict, he can serve as the official "mouthpiece" to make any statements or advise clients about what to say to the media.
You have rights as a victim, but the system does not automatically acknowledge them. Contact Jim Brown for compassionate and effective counsel during this painful and private episode. He practices in Beaufort, Jasper, Colleton, Charleston and surrounding counties of the South Carolina Lowcountry, and offers a free initial consultation.
