Austin Michael Blake, Criminal Defense Attorney in Beaufort, South Carolina

Austin concentrates on criminal defense, dui/dwi, litigation, personal injury, and real estate. Each area below outlines the kind of case Austin handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• DUI/DWI

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• Litigation

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• Personal Injury

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• Real Estate

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• Business

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Austin's primary office is at 1001 Craven Street, Beaufort, SC, 29902. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Austin usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Austin discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Austin for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Austin walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Austin offer a free consultation?

  Austin charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Austin's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Austin's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in South Carolina typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Austin gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Austin take my case if I'm outside Beaufort?

  Austin is licensed in South Carolina. Matters governed by South Carolina law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Austin will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Austin?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Austin will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Austin accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Austin's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.