Being arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Charleston can be a difficult and embarrassing experience. DUI defendants are usually good people who make a mistake they sincerely regret. Sometimes, the accused has been wrongly arrested for DUI, perhaps as the result of an error by a police officer, or the officer’s alcohol-testing equipment.

If you or a loved one has been arrested for DUI, or feel that a DUI arrest may be forthcoming, you should seek a Charleston DUI defense attorney to fight this for you. You may be able to save your driver’s license by applying for an administrative license suspension hearing. When your DUI charge is in Summerville, Goose Creek, North Charleston, Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, James Island, Folly Beach, or anywhere else in Dorchester, Charleston, or Berkeley County, you need local DUI attorneys to fight this charge.

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Please feel free to contact Crantford Meehan for a Free Consultation regarding your DUI charge. Remember, whether you decide to retain us or not, everything we discuss is confidential. Call us today at 843-396-3833.

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Overview of DUI Charges in Charleston

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious charge in South Carolina. A DUI arrest can have serious consequences, including fines, jail time, and the suspension of your driver’s license. In South Carolina, a DUI charge includes both a criminal and an administrative aspect. Understanding the full scope of your DUI charge, including the impact it will have on your license and driving record, is crucial for mounting a successful defense. At Crantford Meehan, our DUI defense attorneys are experienced in fighting DUI charges and protecting your rights.

Understanding DUI Charges in South Carolina: Criminal and Administrative Aspects

In South Carolina, a DUI charge has two main components: the criminal charge and the administrative charge involving your driver’s license. The criminal charge is related to the offense of driving under the influence, while the administrative aspect deals with the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. Our attorneys will help you understand both sides of the DUI charge and guide you through the legal process to ensure your rights are protected and the best possible outcome is achieved.

Potential Penalties for DUI in Charleston

The penalties for a DUI in South Carolina vary depending on factors such as your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC), prior DUI convictions, and whether any accidents or injuries were involved. For example, a first-time DUI offense may result in fines, license suspension, and mandatory alcohol education programs. Subsequent offenses come with increasingly severe penalties, including longer license suspensions, higher fines, and possible jail time. Our experienced DUI defense lawyers will help you understand the specific penalties you may be facing and work to reduce them.

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What to Do If You Are Arrested for DUI in Charleston

If you are arrested for DUI, it’s essential to take certain steps to protect your rights:

Remain Calm

Avoid making any statements or admissions that could be used against you later. Politely exercise your right to remain silent.

Request an Administrative Hearing

If you are arrested for DUI, request a hearing within 30 days to contest the suspension of your driver’s license.

Contact a DUI Defense Lawyer

Immediately consult with a DUI defense attorney to understand your legal options and begin preparing your defense.

Follow Legal Procedures

Attend all required hearings and follow the advice of your attorney to ensure the best possible outcome.

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Why You Need a Charleston DUI Defense Lawyer

Fighting a DUI charge on your own can be overwhelming, and it’s often not advisable. A skilled DUI defense attorney can help in several ways:

Evaluating Your Case: Your lawyer will review the circumstances of your arrest, the evidence against you, and any possible legal errors that occurred during the process.
Challenging the Evidence: A DUI defense lawyer can challenge the validity of breathalyzer tests, field sobriety tests, or any other evidence presented by the prosecution.
Negotiating a Plea: If a conviction seems likely, your attorney can negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing to minimize the consequences of your DUI conviction.
Representing You in Court: If your case goes to trial, your DUI defense lawyer will present a strong defense on your behalf to protect your rights and freedom.

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Crantford Meehan has helped me extremely through the hardest time in my life and has gotten me such an AMAZING recovery after my accident. I highly recommend them to any and everyone I know. Even after my own mother got into an auto accident, they have helped us both successfully move forward with our lives...

Harleigh Tenio
My ‘go to’ for legal help.

Attorney William Crantford has been great! He is my “go to” for legal help.

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Mr. Meehan was very professional.

Mr. Meehan was very professional. He made sure to address all of the questions and concerns that I had while working with him. I would absolutely recommend Crantford Meehan to anyone looking for an attorney who works hard to get you the best possible outcome.

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Frequently Asked Questions About DUI in Charleston

What is considered a DUI in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, a DUI occurs when a driver operates a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. DUI charges can also apply if the driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol to the point that their ability to drive is impaired.
What are the penalties for a DUI in Charleston?

The penalties for a DUI conviction in Charleston vary depending on factors such as BAC level and prior offenses. First-time offenders may face fines, license suspension, and mandatory DUI education, while repeat offenders can face harsher penalties such as longer license suspensions, larger fines, and potential jail time.
How long does a DUI stay on my record in South Carolina?

A DUI conviction in South Carolina stays on your record for a minimum of 10 years. This can affect your insurance rates, employment opportunities, and your driving privileges.
Can I get my license back after a DUI in South Carolina?

If your license is suspended due to a DUI conviction, you may be eligible to apply for reinstatement after completing the required programs and waiting out the suspension period. Your DUI defense lawyer can help guide you through this process.
Do I need a DUI defense lawyer for a first offense in Charleston?

Even for a first offense, it’s advisable to consult with a DUI defense lawyer. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and ensure that you receive a fair outcome in your case.