Reasonable defense options when fighting a DUI in South Carolina
Perhaps you were out with friends or headed home from a nice dinner when you noticed flashing lights behind you. When an officer pulls you over for suspected drunk driving, it can be frightening, but it can be especially overwhelming to find yourself facing DUI charges. Whether it is your first offense or you have other DUIs on your record, you understand how important it is to fight back.
Many people underestimate the serious nature of a DUI offense — you should not be one of them. It is in your interests to take your case seriously, mounting a defense that confronts the prosecution’s case effectively. There are several different options for reasonable DUI defense strategies, and the right one for your case depends on the circumstances of your individual situation.
Which one is right for you?
A careful evaluation of your case can help you see what defense plan will work best for you. No matter how grave the case against you may seem, there are ways that you can challenge the evidence against you, present evidence for your defense and fight for your rights as an individual charged with a crime. Some of the most common DUI defense strategies include:
- The initial traffic stop was not valid, therefore invalidating all evidence collected from the stop.
- The Breathalyzer apparatus was defective or improperly maintained by law enforcement.
- The police officer did not use the testing apparatus or administer the sobriety tests correctly.
- You experienced a violation of your rights in the course of dealing with law enforcement during your traffic stop.
- There was a problem with the chain of custody of your blood or urine sample.
Of course, this is not an exhaustive list of potential DUI defenses. Every case is different, and there is no cookie-cutter approach to fighting a DUI. Your plan for fighting back will depend on the details of your case, your objectives and various other factors.
Fighting for your future
No matter what’s in your past, it’s always prudent to fight a DUI in the present. It is wise to fight to keep your record clear and preserve your right to drive. If you are facing DUI charges, you may want to speak to a South Carolina defense attorney about the specific options that may be available to you. As soon as possible after an arrest, seek an explanation of your legal options through an evaluation of your case.