What Are the Long-Term Consequences of a DUI Conviction?
South Carolina takes impaired driving very seriously, and you should do the same. The long-term consequences that accompany convictions can be difficult to shake, which means they can negatively affect your future in ways you may not have even considered. If you are facing a DUI charge, seek the professional legal representation of an experienced Greenville DUI defense attorney today.
DUI Charges in South Carolina
In South Carolina, your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) doesn’t have to reach the legal limit of .08 percent for you to be charged with DUI – or driving under the influence. Consider the following scenarios:
- If your BAC is between .05 and .08, this fact will be considered along with any additional evidence the prosecution has in order to prove or attempt to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that your faculties to drive were materially and appreciably impaired – and that you were, therefore, driving under the influence.
- If your BAC is .08 or higher, it is considered illegal per se, which means your impairment is inferred, and you’ll be charged with DUI.
Just because you’re under the legal limit doesn’t mean that you can’t face DUI charges in the State of South Carolina.
Fines and Penalties
If you’re convicted of DUI, you will face all the following fines and penalties – all of which can contribute to lasting consequences:
- Fines of up to $992, which include assessments and surcharges
- Jail time from 48 hours to 30 days
- Driver’s license suspension of six months
For a second offense, the penalties increase significantly and include:
- Fines of up to $10,744.50, which include assessments and surcharges
- Jail time from five days to one year
- Driver’s license suspension of one year
For a third offense, the following penalties apply:
- Fines of up to $13,234.50, which include assessments and surcharges
- Jail time of from 60 days to 3 years
- Driver’s license suspension of two years
If the third charge comes within five years of the first, you’ll face a driver’s license suspension of four years. Finally, if the third or subsequent charge comes within ten years of the first, the vehicle you’re driving must be confiscated if you are the owner or if you are a household member of the owner.
For a fourth or subsequent conviction, you’ll face a prison sentence of from one to five years and permanent revocation of your driver’s license.
Social Consequences
When you compound the legal penalties with the following social consequences of a DUI, the long-term effects become that much more dire:
- Damaged reputation
- Fewer job opportunities
- Difficulty renting a home or being approved for a home loan
- Fewer opportunities related to furthering your education
It’s Time to Consult with an Experienced Greenville DUI Defense Attorney
The knowledgeable Greenville DUI defense attorneys at Ryan Beasley Law take great pride in our imposing reputation for tirelessly defending our valued clients in the face of DUI charges, and we welcome the opportunity to do the same for you. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 864-679-7777 today.