DUI

Whiskey with car keys and handcuffs concept for drinking and driving

South Carolina DUI

Facing a DUI charge in South Carolina is a stressful experience, and the social repercussions can be deeply shameful for the accused. Understanding the legal complexities of the judicial system can be overwhelming, and the lifestyle and financial implications of a DUI charge in South Carolina can be devastating.

A DUI charge in South Carolina should be taken seriously. If you are facing an arrest for DUI in Georgetown, SC. or elsewhere, it is vital that you understand your legal rights and retain an experienced DUI lawyer. Snow & Woods, Attorneys at Law, LLC, are knowledgeable and experienced Georgetown DUI attorneys and we are ready to protect your legal rights.

What is a DUI in South Carolina?

South Carolina DUI law section 56-5-2930 states:

(A) It is unlawful for a person to drive a motor vehicle within this State while under the influence of alcohol to the extent that the person’s faculties to drive a motor vehicle are materially and appreciably impaired.

Put simply; it is against the law for any person to drive a motor vehicle in the State of South Carolina while under the influence of alcohol or drugs with a blood alcohol concentration level of .08% or higher.

What are the Penalties for a DUI 1st Offense in South Carolina?

  • A fine of $400 to $1,000 plus court costs
  • 48 hours to 90 days in jail
  • Loss of your driver’s license for six months to 12 months
  • ADSAP (Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program)
  • Proof of SR-22 (high-risk driver’s insurance), required for at least 3 years
  • A Permanent Criminal Record

What are the Penalties for a DUI 2nd Offense in South Carolina?

  • A fine of $2100 to $6,500 plus court costs
  • Five days to 3 years of jail time
  • Loss of your driver’s license for as long as 12 months
  • ADSAP (Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program)
  • Proof of SR-22 (high-risk driver’s insurance), required for at least 3 years
  • Ignition Interlock Device Installed in your Vehicle for at least two years
  • Vehicle Immobilization Required
  • A Permanent Criminal Record

What are the Penalties for a DUI 3rd Offense in South Carolina?

  • A fine of $3,800 to $6,000 plus court costs
  • 60 days to 5 years of jail time
  • Loss of your driver’s license for 2 to 4 years
  • ADSAP (Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program)
  • Proof of SR-22 (high-risk driver’s insurance) for a minimum of 3 years
  • Vehicle immobilization
  • Ignition Interlock Device for a minimum of 3 years
  • A Permanent Criminal Record

Unlike a speeding fine, being convicted of a DUI charge leaves you with a permanent criminal record. Whether you are a college student who faces losing your scholarship and loans or a working professional whose professional license could be revoked, a DUI charge in South Carolina puts you at risk of losing your livelihood.

If you have been arrested and charged with a DUI in Georgetown, it is crucial that you execute your right to be represented by a knowledgeable attorney at every stage of your case. A DUI arrest in South Carolina does not have to mean a conviction.

What Happens When You are Released for DUI?

While waiting for your implied consent hearing, it is possible to obtain a Temporary Alcohol License, which will allow you to drive within the State of South Carolina without restrictions. You cannot get a Temporary Alcohol License until the DMV has received notice of your request for a hearing. With an in depth knowledge of the legal process our Georgetown DUI lawyers will help you file the necessary paperwork to help get you back on the road and most importantly, back to your life.

Why Choose Us to Represent You?

With over four decades of combined practice experience, we have successfully represented clients charged with DUI throughout the Carolinas. Our experienced and aggressive DUI attorneys have worked hard to have hundreds of DUI charges dismissed or minimized, in all 46 counties throughout the State of South Carolina.

Your DUI defense is only as successful as your DUI defense attorney.

When you retain the services of Snow & Woods, Attorneys at Law, LLC, you are investing in your future. Whether we question the validity of your breathalyzer results or request dismissal of the case entirely, our aggressive Georgetown criminal defense attorneys will ensure that we do all that we can to fight for you and your best interests.

Always remember that you are innocent until proven guilty–in the United States, that is your constitutional right. With strategic preparation, astute negotiation skills, and aggressive courtroom defense, we can help to protect what matters most to you.