Charleston, SC. DUI Criminal Defense Attorney
What to expect if you’ve been charged with a DUI
South Carolina laws place heavy penalties on any DUI charge. These penalties include fines, prison time, license suspensions, and court-mandated treatment. A court-mandated IID, that’s an ignition interlock device, is also part of the sentence.
Fighting a DUI charge is something you don’t want to do alone. Ashley Cornwell can help you avoid the worst consequences and defend your legal rights. Contact her today or call 843-595-6003 to set up a consultation.
DUI Penalties in South Carolina
Someone in South Carolina can be charged with a DUI if their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is over .08% while they’re operating a motor vehicle.
A first-time DUI offense, when a driver was found to have a BAC over .08% but less than .10%, can result in jail time of 2 to 30 days. However, having a higher BAC can lead to harsher penalties. Judges can replace the 48 hours of jail time with community service, but this is not automatic nor is it a guarantee. Fines also depend on the BAC level. They can range from $400 to $1,000. An alcohol and drug abuse course must also be completed.
Is an IID necessary for a first-time DUI offense?
Judges will usually order a 6-month license suspension for those who were found guilty of a DUI. If a driver’s BAC was under .15% then they can receive a provisional license while attending alcohol and drug counseling. However, if they refused to take a chemical test or they had a BAC above .15% then they can only receive an IID restricted license.
Contact Cornwell Law Today
Attorney Ashley Cornwell at the Cornwell Law firm has helped countless individuals in Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Goose Creek, Orangeburg, and throughout South Carolina. Ashley Cornwell fights tirelessly to defend her clients’ rights and seek the best possible outcome. Our firm focuses on providing legal representation and customized service which will help you deal with your legal needs. Contact us today.
