Being charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Greenville, SC, can have serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. At Price Law Firm, we understand the impact a DUI conviction can have on your life. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to providing aggressive, strategic defense to protect your rights and your future.

WHAT IS DUI IN SOUTH CAROLINA?

In South Carolina, a DUI charge can be made if you are caught operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any other impairing substances. The legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% for drivers over the age of 21. However, a DUI can also be charged if an officer believes that any substance impairs your ability to operate a vehicle safely, even if your BAC is below 0.08%.

Types of DUI Charges in Greenville, SC

• DUI – Alcohol
  If you are arrested for driving with a BAC over the legal limit, you could face criminal penalties, including fines, mandatory alcohol education, and a suspension of your driver’s license. Our attorneys will examine the evidence, including field sobriety tests and breathalyzer results, to identify any inconsistencies or errors that could help build a defense.
• DUI – Drugs
  Driving under the influence of drugs, whether prescription, over-the-counter, or illegal substances, can result in DUI charges. Law enforcement may use field sobriety tests or drug recognition experts (DRE) to assess impairment. We will review all aspects of the arrest to challenge improper procedures and ensure that your rights were not violated.
• Refusal to Submit to Testing
  If you refuse to take a breathalyzer or blood test when asked by an officer, you may face additional penalties. South Carolina’s implied consent law means that by driving on the state’s roads, you have consented to such tests. Refusal can result in an automatic suspension of your driver’s license. We work to challenge the reasons for refusal and minimize the impact on your driving privileges.

PENALTIES FOR DUI IN SOUTH CAROLINA

The penalties for DUI convictions can vary depending on factors such as your BAC, prior convictions, and whether any aggravating circumstances were involved. Some common penalties for DUI offenses include:

• Fines and Court Fees
• Jail Time
• Driver’s License Suspension
• Mandatory Alcohol Education and Treatment
• Increased Penalties for Repeat Offenders

Our team will work to reduce or eliminate the penalties you face by exploring every possible defense strategy.

MORE INFORMATION

For those curious about South Carolina’s DUI laws, this page provides an overview of the various misdemeanor and felony DUI laws in SC. What is commonly referred to as “drunk driving” can be found in two statutes under South Carolina law: S.C. Code of Laws Sections 56-5-2933 [Driving with an Unlawful Alcohol Concentration] and 56-5-2930 [Driving Under the Influence].

Section 56-5-2930 outlines the elements of Driving Under the Influence [DUI] which, in short, is defined as driving a motor vehicle within this state while under the influence of drugs or alcohol to the extent that the person’s faculties to drive a motor vehicle are materially and appreciably impaired.

Section 56-5-2933 outlines the elements of Driving with an Unlawful Alcohol Concentration [DUAC] which is defined as driving a motor vehicle while having an alcohol concentration of eight one-hundredths of one percent or more (.08 or above).

While both DUI and DUAC carry the same penalties, the main difference between the two is that DUAC does not require the driver to be impaired. In other words, a driver who can still drive safely or show no signs of impairment can be charged with DUAC if their blood alcohol concentration is .08 or more.

Whether you are charged with DUI or DUAC, South Carolina law requires the arrested driver to submit to breath and/or blood or urine testing. If a driver refuses to provide a sample, then their driver’s license can be suspended for six months. However, if a driver gives a sample that is fifteen one-hundredths percent or more (.15 or above) then their license may only be suspended for one month.

If a driver refuses to submit to breath, blood, and/or urine testing and their license is suspended as a result, then the driver may request an Administrative Hearing within thirty (30) days. Once a request is made and a hearing date is scheduled, a driver may take the scheduling notice to the DMV and request a Temporary Alcohol License [TAL]. This license is just like their regular license and allows the driver to drive anywhere day or night. However, if their suspension is upheld at the Administrative Hearing, then their license returns to being suspended.

Drivers may also be charged with DUI if drugs, whether legal or illegal, are found to be in their system. For example, a driver charged with DUI can provide a breath sample of 0.00 but provide a urine sample that tests positive for marijuana.

• Experienced DUI Defense Attorneys
  Our attorneys have extensive experience handling DUI cases in Greenville, SC. We understand the legal complexities involved and know how to navigate the court system to fight for the best possible outcome.
• Comprehensive Investigation of Your Case
  We conduct a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding your DUI charge. This includes reviewing police reports, questioning the validity of breathalyzer tests, and assessing the legality of the traffic stop.
• Personalized Defense Strategy
  At Price Law Firm, we understand that every DUI case is unique. We offer personalized legal services tailored to your specific situation, and we work tirelessly to protect your rights and minimize the impact of the charges.
• Aggressive Representation in Court
  We are committed to providing aggressive representation in the courtroom. Whether it’s challenging the evidence, negotiating for reduced charges, or fighting for a dismissal, we will advocate for your best interests at every stage of the process.