South Carolina DUI conviction – When someone is charged with driving under the influence (DUI) in South Carolina, it can be a very stressful time with many things to consider. DUIs can be complicated and difficult to navigate. There are many complex laws and procedures that will likely require professional help from a South Carolina DUI attorney. What that attorney will work hard to do for you is attempt to avoid a conviction. Sometimes avoiding a conviction is not possible, but it is worth a try, because the consequences can be severe.
In this blog, we will discuss the consequences of a South Carolina DUI conviction. Like all our blogs, this is intended for general informational purposes only and not intended as a substitute for the advice and counsel of a DUI attorney.
Criminal consequences of a South Carolina DUI conviction
DUIs can have the typical criminal consequences that you would face with any other criminal conviction, including but not limited to:
- Jail or prison time,
- Probation,
- Fines and court fees, and
- An order to complete community service,
Though some people perceive DUI to be a traffic matter, it is in fact a criminal action. Additionally, a conviction of DUI is a criminal conviction that can never be expunged. Criminal convictions tend to show up on background checks and can restrict you in many ways in the future. DUIs are much more serious than your typical traffic citation.
Collateral consequences of a DUI conviction
In addition to the criminal penalties, and the typical collateral consequences of a criminal conviction, DUIs have their own collateral consequences. Some of those consequences include but are not limited to the following:
- License suspension for at least 6 months, with the possibility of a permanent revocation depending on the circumstances,
- Requirement to complete an alcohol and drug abuse educational program, and
- Requirement to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
The collateral consequences of a DUI are what set that charge apart from other low-level crimes.
Other consequences of DUI convictions
There are other factors that make the severity of a DUI conviction more apparent. One of those consequences is that it makes any future conviction of DUI more severe, with more severe punishments. Additionally, DUI convictions can have some consequences with certain jobs. There are plenty of employers who will terminate an employee if they receive a DUI conviction — and that is not limited to jobs which involve driving.
DUIs are no different from any other criminal matter in that you have the presumption of innocence, meaning you are innocent until proven guilty. Simply admitting guilt can have lifelong consequences that some people may not be ready for. If you have been charged with DUI in South Carolina, contact us.