Any DUI offense, whether 1st, 2nd, or 3rd, is serious. These offenses can result in a permanently marked criminal record, fines, jail-time, community service, loss of driving privileges, and more. A first-time DUI offense in South Carolina carries serious consequences. A second DUI, which we’ll cover in this article, includes worse punishments.
What is a 2nd DUI in SC?
If a driver receives a DUI charge with 10 years from a prior conviction, then is considered a second offense. Simply due to it being considered as a second offense will there be harsher consequences, but other variables are also at play like the blood alcohol content (BAC) of the driver.
The fine for first-time offenses ranges between $400 and $1,000. However, for a second offense, this increases to between $2,100 to $5,100. It can even be higher depending on the BAC. If the BAC was .16% then the fine could be as high as $6,500.
A second-time DUI charge can lead to serious jail time as well. Judges have discretion in this matter, but not as much as with 1st offenses. If a person’s BAC was less than .10% then they can face between 5 and 1 year in jail. If it was above .10% but below .16% then it increases to between 30 days and 2 years. If however, it was higher than .16% then the offender could face 3 years in jail.
An IID, or Ignition Interlock Device, is required to be installed for 2 years. In addition to this the license suspension requirement, which for a first-time offense is 6 months, is upped to 1 full year.
Charleston DUI Attorney
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 client’s 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 here to set up a consultation or call us at 843-595-6003.
