Maura Dawson Baker, Criminal Defense Attorney in Columbia, South Carolina

Maura concentrates on criminal defense, drug crimes, dui/dwi, and litigation. Each area below outlines the kind of case Maura handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Drug Crimes

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• DUI/DWI

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• Litigation

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Maura's primary office is at Columbia, SC, 29202. 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 Maura usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Maura 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 Maura for a criminal defense case?

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

• Does Maura offer a free consultation?

  Maura charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Maura's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Maura'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. Maura gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Maura take my case if I'm outside Columbia?

  Maura 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 — Maura 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 Maura?

  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. Maura will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Maura accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

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