Tivis Colley Sutherland IV, Criminal Defense Attorney in Columbia, South Carolina

Tivis concentrates on criminal defense and litigation. Each area below outlines the kind of case Tivis handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

  View other Criminal Defense attorneys

• Litigation

  View other Litigation attorneys

Tivis's primary office is at 1522 Lady St, Columbia, SC, 29201-3402. 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 Tivis usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Tivis 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 Tivis for a criminal defense case?

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

• Does Tivis offer a free consultation?

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

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

  Tivis 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 — Tivis 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 Tivis?

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

• Is Tivis accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

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