Mt Pleasant DUI Lawyer

Mt Pleasant DUI Attorney

When facing a DUI charge in Mount Pleasant, having the guidance of a Mt Pleasant DUI lawyer is essential when navigating the legal landscape and working toward the most favorable outcome for your case. The state treats DUI offenses seriously, with strict penalties that can impact driving privileges, finances, and personal freedom.

If you have been accused of drunk driving, your freedom is at stake. The criminal defense team at Axelrod & Associates, P.A., has over 100 years of combined legal experience, and our customer service first approach is instrumental in helping you understand the charges, developing a strategic approach to the case, and ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

DUI Charges and Consequences in South Carolina

In the state, driving under the influence (DUI) laws are strict, with significant penalties for anyone convicted. DUI charges are based on blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels, which are set at a legal limit of 0.08% for adults over the age of 21. Penalties for a DUI conviction vary depending on several factors, including the driver’s BAC, prior convictions, and whether any injuries or property damage resulted from the alleged offense.

Building a DUI Defense

Our DUI lawyers evaluate all aspects of a DUI case, including the circumstances surrounding the traffic stop, the methods used to determine intoxication and any potential procedural errors made by law enforcement.

Field sobriety tests are subjective and can be influenced by various factors, for example, certain medical conditions, uneven terrain, or poor weather, which may have an effect on the results. Breathalyzer devices, too, are susceptible to errors if not calibrated correctly or used properly. We can assess whether any of these factors could apply to your case and weaken the prosecution’s case.

Another critical aspect of DUI defense is examining the procedures followed by law enforcement during the arrest. Police officers must adhere to strict protocols when conducting DUI stops, including informing the driver of their rights and ensuring that any chemical tests are legally administered. Any failure by law enforcement to follow these protocols may provide grounds to challenge the DUI claim.

Role of a Mount Pleasant DUI Attorney

In cases where negotiation is possible, our criminal defense team can work to secure alternative sentencing options or a plea bargain. For example, state courts sometimes offer programs that allow defendants to avoid a DUI conviction if they complete an approved treatment or education program. Our attorneys can evaluate whether such options are feasible and advocate for these alternatives when they serve the client’s interests.

Commonly Contested Issues in DUI Cases in Mt Pleasant

DUI cases involve various elements that can be contested in court. Some of the most frequently challenged areas in a DUI claim in Mt Pleasant include:

• The traffic stop. For a DUI case to proceed, the initial traffic stop must be lawful. A DUI lawyer investigates whether law enforcement had reasonable suspicion to stop the vehicle. If the stop lacked valid grounds, this could lead to the dismissal of the case.
• Sobriety and chemical tests. The results of field sobriety tests, breathalyzer tests, or blood tests are often pivotal in DUI cases. Any procedural issues with these tests, such as improper administration or equipment malfunction, can provide a basis for challenging the evidence.
• Rights violations. Law enforcement must inform individuals of their rights during an arrest. Failure to do so or to provide timely access to legal counsel can significantly impact the validity of the DUI claim.

DUI and Your Driving Privileges

A DUI conviction in the state can result in the suspension of driving privileges, even if this is a first-time offense. This can have immediate and long-term consequences for individuals and their families. Losing the ability to drive can affect employment, family responsibilities, and overall quality of life.

At Axelrod & Associates, P.A., our criminal defense lawyers can help clients obtain a provisional driver’s license, which allows limited driving privileges during the suspension period, typically for necessary tasks like commuting to work or school.

Additionally, after a DUI conviction, individuals are now required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle, which requires a driver to pass a breathalyzer test before the car can start. Our attorneys can provide valuable information on compliance with these requirements, as well as the steps needed to restore full driving privileges once the suspension period has ended.

FAQs About Mt Pleasant, SC DUI Laws

Is There a Statute of Limitations on DUI Charges in South Carolina?

Unlike the majority of states, the state does not impose a statute of limitations for criminal charges. This means that the prosecution can file charges against you without a mandate for a time limit. This can result in charges being brought against you years after your arrest. There are, however, statutes of limitations in place for filing civil claims in the state.

How Can I Beat a DUI in SC?

Several defense strategies may help beat a DUI charge. These include challenging the legality of the traffic stop, disputing the test results, or highlighting procedural errors that could have either interfered with the legality of the evidence or interfered with your legal rights. We can advise you on a course of action after thoroughly reviewing your case.

Is There a Bond for a DUI in South Carolina?

Yes. Individuals arrested for DUI in the state are typically eligible for bond, although the amount and conditions vary based on the severity of the case, the existence of prior offenses, and other factors. The judge sets the bond (also called bail) at the arraignment after a plea has been entered.

How Much Does a DUI Cost in South Carolina?

The cost of a DUI in the state can include penalty fines, court fees, increased insurance premiums, and potential costs for mandatory alcohol treatment and ignition interlock devices. Attorney fees can also vary based on the complexity of the case, but without the right representation on your side, the true cost could be your freedom.

Contacting a Mount Pleasant DUI Lawyer

A DUI case can have lasting effects, but with the support of the experienced criminal defense attorneys of Axelrod & Associates, P.A., you can make informed decisions about your future and work toward the most appropriate outcome for your case. We understand the complexities of DUI cases and offer guidance each step of the way, from building a defense to exploring alternative sentencing options.

By contacting us, you can gain insight into your rights and obligations while exploring potential defenses to reduce or dismiss charges.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.