Charleston First-Offense DUI Lawyer

Posted by Alan Finkel on November 2nd, 2022

A DUI arrest is serious even if the arrestee has no prior criminal record. Following a drunk driving arrest, a Charleston first-offense DUI attorney could represent the defendant's interests in the county or municipal court. For legal representation, contact a DUI Attorney in Charleston, SC.

In Charleston, how are DUI charges handled?

When an individual is charged with a DUI in Charleston, their case is heard in Charleston County magistrate court or different municipal courts in downtown Charleston, Mount Pleasant, or even other cities in Charleston County. The specific jurisdiction is determined by the officer who makes the initial arrest. The Charleston County Sheriff's Office arrests the individual on a county charge. The person is arrested for a municipal court charge by the municipal court's law enforcement department. Many judges in Charleston County are hesitant to jail someone unless they have a prior record. On a first-time DUI charge, judges generally follow the local prosecutor's suggestion, yet every case is different. A Charleston first-time DUI attorney could work with prosecutors to reduce potential penalties.

Penalties for a First-Time DUI

A first-time DUI in Charleston carries a jail sentence of up to 30 days, a fine, or 48 hours to 30 days of community service, depending on the specific circumstances of the case and the individual's blood alcohol content at the time of the arrest.

There are currently no diversion programs available in Charleston for DUI offenders. Probation is not available on first-time DUI charges in South Carolina because it is not available in municipal or magistrate courts.

What Factors Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Consider When Defending Against DUI Charges?

A criminal defense lawyer may search for specific pieces of evidence that could undermine the prosecution's case. They may consider whether there is any evidence of driving under the influence on the video from the scene and the breathalyzer room that law enforcement must provide. The lawyer could also determine whether the officer who arrested the client for a first-time DUI has the necessary training and knowledge to administer field sobriety tests or a breathalyzer test.

Experienced DUI attorneys frequently search for evidence that contradicts what a law enforcement officer wrote in an incident report about the person's behavior on video and attempt to address any underlying issues their client may have to help with mitigation.

Contact an expert DUI attorney today

If you are facing this issue & stressed out about the right solution, never get panic; just contact an expert DUI lawyer for better suggestions. Preparing for your first court date, obtaining a driver's license, and obtaining permission to leave the state are all time-sensitive issues.

Even if your immediate ability to pay is a concern, speak with a DUI Attorney in Charleston, SC. We provide complimentary DUI and criminal consultations. We can assist you in obtaining your Temporary Alcohol License, explaining your rights and any costs or issues that may arise. There's no reason to wait, so contact us today to set up a free consultation.