About Aaron De Bruin — Criminal Defense Greenville South Carolina
Upstate residents looking for criminal defense Greenville representation find a full-service advocate in Aaron De Bruin. Beyond criminal defense, the firm also handles estate planning, real estate, and business law for clients across Greenville and Spartanburg Counties. The 16 Wellington Avenue office serves as the firm’s base for both litigation and transactional matters.
The De Bruin Law Firm takes a hands-on approach, with Aaron personally handling client intake and strategic decisions. Clients benefit from having one attorney who can coordinate across multiple legal needs rather than bouncing between specialists. Contact the office directly to discuss consultation availability and fees for criminal matters.
What Clients Say
Clients consistently describe Aaron as professional, compassionate, and dedicated to favorable outcomes. One review praises his work proving a client’s innocence in a criminal matter, while others cite his gentle handling of estate planning for elderly family members. Many describe long-term relationships with the firm for both personal and business legal needs. His staff also receives frequent positive mentions.
Criminal Defense Greenville — Practice Areas & Services
- Misdemeanor and felony defense in Greenville County General Sessions Court
- DUI defense and traffic violations across I-85 and I-385 corridors
- Estate planning, wills, and trusts for Upstate families
- Real estate closings and title issues in Greenville and Spartanburg
- Small business formation, contracts, and general business counsel
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at a first appearance in Greenville County?
After an arrest, you appear before a magistrate within 24 hours for a bond hearing. The judge reviews the charges and sets bond conditions. Having an attorney at this stage often helps secure a reasonable bond and avoid unnecessary pretrial detention.
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Greenville?
Fees vary by charge severity. Misdemeanor representation typically runs $1,500 to $5,000, while felony defense can cost $5,000 to $25,000 or more. DUI defense generally starts around $2,500, though contested cases with expert witnesses cost substantially more.
Where are Greenville County criminal cases heard?
Misdemeanors go to magistrate or municipal court, while felonies proceed to General Sessions Court at the Greenville County Courthouse at 305 E North Street. Juvenile matters are handled separately at the family courthouse. General Sessions Court has multiple terms per year.
Quick Facts: Criminal Defense in Greenville, South Carolina
- South Carolina General Sessions filings (2023): More than 94,000 new criminal cases statewide — SC Judicial Branch
- Greenville County population: Approximately 545,000 residents, the largest county in South Carolina — U.S. Census Bureau
- SC DUI arrests: Roughly 13,000 DUI arrests statewide each year — SC Department of Public Safety
Related Guide: Greenville, South Carolina Attorneys Directory


