Horry County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Horry County, SC: Complete Guide

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Horry County

Being arrested for a DUI in Horry County, South Carolina can be a frightening and confusing experience. This guide is designed to provide you with immediate, practical information about what to expect, important deadlines, and the steps you need to take to protect your rights and future. We understand you're likely overwhelmed, so this guide focuses on actionable information to help you navigate the legal process in Horry County.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

The hours following your DUI arrest are critical. Here's a general timeline of what to expect:

• Arrest and Field Sobriety Tests: After being pulled over, the officer likely conducted field sobriety tests and/or administered a breathalyzer test. If they believed you were impaired, you were arrested.
• Transportation to the Horry County Jail: You were transported to the Horry County Detention Center (jail) for processing.
• Booking Process: At the jail, you were booked. This involves taking your fingerprints, photograph (mugshot), and recording your personal information. You'll also be asked to provide a statement, which you are not required to do. It's generally advisable to remain silent and request an attorney.
• Phone Calls: You will be allowed to make phone calls, typically after the booking process is complete. Use this opportunity to contact a family member, friend, or, ideally, a DUI attorney.
• Bail Determination: A magistrate will determine your bail amount. This is the amount of money you need to pay to be released from jail pending your court appearance.

How Bail Works in Horry County: Bail in Horry County is set according to a schedule, but the magistrate can deviate from it based on factors such as your prior criminal record, ties to the community, and the severity of the alleged offense. Common ways to post bail include:

• Cash Bail: Paying the full bail amount in cash.
• Surety Bond: Using a bail bondsman who will post a bond on your behalf in exchange for a fee (typically 10-15% of the bail amount).

Critical Deadlines

Missing deadlines can have serious consequences for your DUI case. Pay close attention to these important dates:

• ALR Hearing Deadline: You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV). This hearing is separate from your criminal case and determines whether your driver's license will be suspended. This is a crucial deadline! Failing to request the hearing within 15 days automatically suspends your license.
• Court Appearance Dates: You will receive a notice of your court appearance date. It's vital to appear in court on time. Failure to appear can result in a warrant being issued for your arrest.
• License Suspension Timeline: If you don't request an ALR hearing, your license will be suspended. The length of the suspension depends on various factors, including your BAC level and any prior DUI convictions.

DUI Enforcement in Horry County

DUI enforcement in Horry County is typically active, especially during peak tourism seasons and holidays. Be aware of checkpoints and increased patrols, particularly in areas with high concentrations of bars and restaurants. Local law enforcement takes DUI seriously and actively works to remove impaired drivers from the roads.

Local Resources

Here are some resources that can help you navigate your DUI case in Horry County:

• Horry County Court Information: (Provide address and contact information for the Horry County Courthouse once available)
• Bail Bondsmen in the Area: (Provide a list of bail bondsmen operating in Horry County - remember to avoid direct endorsements). Example: "Several bail bonds companies operate in Horry County and can assist with posting bail. A simple online search for 'Horry County bail bondsmen' will provide contact information."
• DUI Attorneys: Consulting with a qualified DUI attorney is highly recommended. An attorney can explain your rights, evaluate the evidence against you, and help you develop a strong defense strategy. You can find attorneys specializing in DUI defense through the South Carolina Bar Association or online directories.

What Makes Horry County Different

While South Carolina DUI laws are statewide, some aspects of handling a DUI case can vary by county.

• Unique Local Procedures: While there are no known unique court procedures in Horry County regarding DUI cases at this time, it's important to consult with a local attorney who can advise you on any specific practices or nuances within the Horry County court system.
• County-Specific Programs: (Research and include information about any Horry County-specific DUI programs, such as alcohol education programs or community service options, if available.)
• Typical Bail Amounts: Bail amounts for DUI offenses in Horry County can vary, but a first-time DUI offense typically has a bail set between $500 and $2,000. However, this is just a general guideline, and the magistrate can adjust the bail amount based on the specific circumstances of your case.

This guide provides a general overview of DUI arrests in Horry County, South Carolina. It is not a substitute for legal advice. It is strongly recommended that you consult with a qualified DUI attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and understand your options. Remember to request your ALR hearing within 15 days!