South Carolina Attorney Skilled in Criminal Defense
Columbia lawyer dedicated to helping the criminally accused
Jack B. Swerling, Attorney at Law, is devoted to representing people charged with crimes in state and federal courts. From his office in Columbia, Mr. Swerling defends clients from all walks of life throughout South Carolina. In his more than 40 years of legal practice, he has handled thousands of cases from drug trafficking, theft, robbery, weapons charges, murder and other violent crimes to white collar crimes including blackmail, bribery, public corruption, forgery, perjury, computer crime, extortion, money laundering and various types of fraud. He represents clients in state and federal criminal investigations and grand jury proceedings.
Proven success in high profile cases
When you retain Jack B. Swerling as your defense counsel, you get a seasoned lawyer with wealth of experience in high-profile and contentious criminal law cases. Two of Mr. Swerling’s cases, State v. Larry Gene Bell and State v. Donald “Pee Wee” Gaskins, were the subjects of made-for-TV movies, and several of his clients have been the subject of true crime books, including Bell, Gaskins and Richard Starrett. The late Chief Justice of the South Carolina Supreme Court, Julius Ness, was once quoted in the Charlotte Observer as saying, “I hope I will never be accused of a crime, but if I am, I certainly would want Jack Swerling to represent me.” In one challenging case after another, Mr. Swerling has built a reputation for thorough investigation, engaging top investigators, forensic experts, consultants, and even professional researchers to build a defense that delivers the best possible result for his clients.
Experienced in defense of a broad scope of criminal charges in state and federal courts
Mr. Swerling’s criminal defense practice covers the full range of federal and state charges, including:
- Fraud — He has ample experience defending clients accused of various types of criminal fraud, including healthcare fraud, mail fraud, wire fraud, mortgage and bank fraud and tax fraud.
- White collar crime — He has successfully defended clients accused of white collar crimes, including criminal conspiracies such as money laundering.
- Computer crimes — If you are accused of a cybercrime, such as hacking or possession of internet child pornography, he is prepared to provide an aggressive defense.
- Violent crimes — Whether you are facing weapons charges, assault, homicide or murder, he is a fierce advocate ready to challenge the case against you.
- Drug crimes — He offers a robust defense to all drug crime charges, from simple possession to drug trafficking.
Mr. Swerling is ready and able to represent you, a loved one, or a friend in a criminal investigation or against criminal charges that have been brought by a federal or state law enforcement agency.
Videos document skillful trial lawyer in action
Jack B. Swerling delivers a passionate opening statement in State v. Douglas McKown, a drug possession case:

Aggressive cross-examination compels a witness to admit she lied in earlier testimony:

The jury acquits Douglas McKown on all charges:

Experience fighting for a wide range of clients in contentious criminal cases
When you choose Jack B. Swerling to stand between you and the government as a protector of your rights and freedom, you are selecting a lawyer with a proven ability and a documented record of past performance. He has a reputation for vigorously defending the rights of the accused, believing that no matter what the crime or who is charged, every person should be afforded the best legal representation possible. Since 1973, Mr. Swerling has defended public officials, bankers, lawyers, doctors, law enforcement officers, educators, business owners, business employees, executives, and athletes. He has represented factory workers, farmers, students, government employees, sales personnel, store clerks, mechanics, and laborers. His clientele is diverse and represents a virtual cross section of the South Carolina community.

COMPLEAT LAWYER AWARD: In recognition of his distinguished career, Jack Swerling receives praise from his alma mater, University of South Carolina School of Law.
Contact a dedicated South Carolina criminal lawyer today
Jack B. Swerling, Attorney at Law, in Columbia works tirelessly and pursues every option available for the best result attainable for each of his clients. If you are in need of a criminal defense lawyer in South Carolina, call 800-701-0599 or contact us online to make an appointment for a consultation.