Charleston County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Charleston County, SC: Complete Guide

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Charleston County

Being arrested for a DUI in Charleston County, South Carolina can be a frightening and confusing experience. This guide is designed to provide you with clear, practical information about what happens next, the deadlines you need to be aware of, and the resources available to help you navigate the legal process. This guide will walk you through the immediate aftermath of your arrest, the steps you need to take, and where you can find assistance. Remember, this information is for guidance only and you should consult with a qualified DUI attorney as soon as possible.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

The hours following a DUI arrest are crucial. Here's a timeline of what typically happens:

• Arrest and Field Sobriety Tests: You will be pulled over and the officer will conduct field sobriety tests. If they believe you are impaired, you will be arrested.
• Breathalyzer or Blood Test: You will be asked to submit to a breathalyzer or blood test to determine your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). In South Carolina, the legal limit is 0.08. Refusal to submit to testing can result in an automatic license suspension, even if you are not ultimately convicted of DUI.
• Booking Process at Charleston County Jail: After arrest, you'll be taken to the Charleston County Detention Center for booking. This process involves:
• Photographing (Mugshot)
• Fingerprinting
• Inventory of your personal belongings
• Health screening
• Placement in a holding cell
• Phone Calls: You will typically be allowed to make a phone call after booking. Use this call to contact a family member, friend, or, most importantly, a DUI attorney. Having legal representation early is crucial.
• Bail: Bail is the money you pay to be released from jail pending your court appearance. The amount of bail is set by a magistrate judge.

How Bail Works in Charleston County

Bail in Charleston County is typically set according to a bail schedule. This schedule outlines the standard bail amount for various offenses, including DUI. Factors that can influence the bail amount include:

• Your BAC level
• Prior criminal record
• Whether there were any aggravating circumstances (e.g., an accident, injuries, or a child in the car)

If you can't afford the full bail amount, you can use a bail bondsman. A bail bondsman will charge a non-refundable fee (typically 10-15% of the bail amount) to post bail on your behalf.

Critical Deadlines

Missing deadlines can have serious consequences in a DUI case. Be sure to note these key dates:

• ALR (Administrative License Revocation) Hearing Deadline: In South Carolina, you have 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an ALR hearing with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This hearing is separate from your criminal court case and determines whether your driver's license will be suspended. This is a crucial deadline. Missing it results in automatic license suspension.
• Court Appearance Dates: You will receive a notice to appear in court. It is vital to attend all scheduled court dates. Failure to appear can result in a warrant being issued for your arrest.
• License Suspension Timeline: If you fail to request an ALR hearing, or if you lose your ALR hearing, your license will be suspended. The length of the suspension depends on the specifics of your case.

DUI Enforcement in Charleston County

Charleston County law enforcement takes DUI seriously. You can expect to see:

• Sobriety Checkpoints: Officers frequently conduct sobriety checkpoints, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Increased Patrols: There are often increased patrols in areas known for nightlife and drinking establishments.
• Aggressive Enforcement: Officers are trained to identify and arrest impaired drivers.

Local Resources

Here are some helpful resources in Charleston County:

• Charleston County Court Information: (Insert link to Charleston County court website when available). This website provides information about court schedules, locations, and procedures.
• Bail Bondsmen in the Area: Search online directories for licensed bail bondsmen operating in Charleston County. Remember to compare fees and terms before choosing a bondsman.
• DUI Attorneys: A qualified DUI attorney can provide legal advice and representation. Search online directories or the South Carolina Bar Association website to find attorneys specializing in DUI defense.

What Makes Charleston County Different

While South Carolina DUI laws are consistent statewide, there may be some county-specific procedures or nuances in Charleston County:

• Unique Local Procedures: (Research and add any known unique procedures in Charleston County related to DUI arrests or court processes. If none are found, state: "We are currently researching any unique procedures specific to Charleston County. Please check back for updates.")
• County-Specific Programs: (Research and add any known county-specific DUI programs, such as diversion programs or community service options. If none are found, state: "We are currently researching any county-specific DUI programs available in Charleston County. Please check back for updates.")
• Typical Bail Amounts: Bail amounts for DUI offenses in Charleston County generally follow the state's bail schedule, but can vary based on the circumstances of the arrest. Consult with a bail bondsman or attorney for more precise information.

This guide provides a starting point for understanding the DUI process in Charleston County. It is crucial to consult with a qualified DUI attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and explore your legal options. Good luck.