Every day in South Carolina, drivers are arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence. Drunk driving is never condoned, but being arrested does not mean that you are guilty. Under South Carolina DUI law, an officer can initiate an arrest for drunk driving based only on suspicion of impairment.
Seeking Legal Help Following a DUI
Good people make mistakes, but social pressures against drinking and driving have become so great that there is now little tolerance even if one is drinking responsibly in a social setting. Because of the potential financial, legal and social consequences of a DUI in South Carolina, it is important to seek legal help. Note that not all attorneys practice criminal law and those that do may not have extensive knowledge of DUI defense.
Our DUI Defense Lawyer
Attorney Joe Good is experienced in representing cases related to DUI criminal defense. He focuses on offering a complete drunk driving defense strategy. Joe Good has the dedication and resources to develop an aggressive and strategic defense for your case. He will use his knowledge of DUI law and the legal system to work toward getting you the best possible result.
Penalties for DUI in South Carolina
There are both criminal and civil penalties associated with driving under the influence. A conviction on criminal charges could lead to large fines, jail, community service and mandatory substance abuse treatment. Your auto insurance could potentially be cancelled, which means that you will be required to get expensive, high-risk coverage.
Penalties will increase with additional DUI violations. Being found guilty of drunk driving in South Carolina also results in a criminal record, which could have a long-term impact on employment opportunities, renting a car, opening a credit account and traveling to some countries.
Can You Go to Jail for Your First DUI In South Carolina?
In a separate civil action, if you refused to submit to a test for blood alcohol content or you registered a BAC of .15% or higher, the state will seek to suspend your driver’s license. It is important to realize that you could actually win your DUI case and still lose your license.
You can petition the Department of Motor Vehicles for an Administrative Hearing and try to save your driving privileges, though you must do so within 30 days of your arrest. Failure to do so will result in loss of your right to a hearing and the automatic suspension of your license. Attorney Joe Good can help you with all aspects of your DUI defense, from representing you at a DMV hearing to aggressively defending you in a courtroom.
Free Initial DUI Consultation
South Carolina DUI Attorney Joe Good will review the details of your arrest, ask about your needs and then outline your legal options and his fee for representation. There is no cost or obligation for the initial meeting. Time is important, so do not delay contacting Joseph C. Good III, P.A. today.