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Charges don’t wait for business hours. Call and get a straight answer about your case and what to do next.
Call nowMerritt Law
Rock Hill criminal defense that moves as fast as the case against you.
When charges land, you need a lawyer who answers, explains clearly, and fights for the outcome that protects your future.
Serving clients in Rock Hill, York County, and across South Carolina.
Start without paying everything upfront
A solid defense should not stall on cash. Apply for a payment plan and get representation moving in Rock Hill.
Apply nowSee what we defend
From DUI and drug charges to felonies in York County court—review the cases Merritt Law handles every day.
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Zach Merritt
A defense lawyer built in South Carolina courtrooms
Zach Merritt grew up in Columbia and earned his J.D. from the University of South Carolina School of Law. His career rests on one belief: people accused of crimes deserve a defender who knows how the system really works.
He learned criminal defense the only way that counts, on his feet in court. As a York County public defender he tried more than 20 cases to verdict, and prosecutors negotiate differently with a lawyer they know will take a case to trial. Before that, he shaped policy at the South Carolina Commission on Indigent Defense, authored statewide juvenile justice guidance funded by the South Carolina Supreme Court, and helped train public defenders across the state.
Zach joined Michael Brown in 2016 and became a partner in 2022. From DUI and drug charges to violent felonies, he now defends clients at every level of criminal court in Rock Hill and throughout South Carolina. When he’s not in a courtroom, he’s preparing the next generation for one as coach of the Indian Land High School Mock Trial Team.
Call (803) 730-1580 for a free consultation. You’ll talk to Zach, not a call center.
Free consultation
Get clear guidance before the next court date
Early decisions matter. A consultation helps you understand the charges, the process, and the options that may still be on the table.
You will speak with defense counsel who listens carefully, reviews what you know so far, and outlines practical next steps. There is no obligation to retain the firm after the call—only an opportunity to get grounded legal insight when you need it most.
Free Consultation
Tell us what you are facing. We respond quickly and confidentially.
- Speak directly with defense counsel
- Clear explanation of your options
- Early case evaluation
- Confidential and prompt response
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What we defend
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Practice areas
Felonies
Serious Rock Hill and York County felony charges demand careful investigation, strategic motions, and courtroom readiness from day one.
Learn more →Misdemeanors
Even a South Carolina misdemeanor can disrupt work, licensing, and reputation. We push for outcomes that protect your record.
Learn more →DUI
Rock Hill DUI cases turn on the stop, the breath test, and procedure. We examine every step from roadside to trial.
Learn more →Theft crimes
York County shoplifting, burglary, and theft allegations require a defense that challenges proof and intent.
Learn more →Drug crimes
Rock Hill possession and trafficking cases often hinge on search, seizure, and chain-of-custody issues.
Learn more →Violent crimes
South Carolina assault and related charges need a steady advocate who can pressure the state’s narrative in court.
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Press coverage
In the
In the
News
Selected reporting on cases where Zach Merritt has represented clients in York County and across South Carolina.
Discuss your case
Herald Online
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Rock Hill woman seeks bail in York County attempted murder case
Coverage of a bond hearing where Zach Merritt and co-counsel argued for release pending trial.
Herald Online
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Murder charge dropped; client sentenced to time served on lesser gun offense
Negotiated resolution after prosecutors dismissed a Rock Hill block-party murder charge.
WCNC Charlotte
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Rock Hill man charged with distributing cocaine at downtown bar
Zach Merritt’s statement emphasizing the presumption of innocence and an independent defense investigation.
Herald Online
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Immunity granted under SC stand-your-ground law in Fort Mill shooting
Judge dismissed murder and weapons charges after finding self-defense immunity for Merritt’s client.