DUI Defense

Sumter DUI Defense Lawyers

Fighting for Clients in Sumter County & Columbia, SC

A charge of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in South Carolina can be intimidating and stressful, threatening your driving privileges, finances, and even your freedom. If you face DUI charges in Sumter or the surrounding counties, it is vital to understand the laws, potential penalties, and how a competent defense can protect your rights and future.

At McDougall Self Currence McLeod, we offer experienced and aggressive legal representation to individuals accused of DUI. Too often, South Carolinians believe these charges are insurmountable and that nothing they do can alleviate the consequences.

As in any criminal case, DUI charges can be challenged. Law enforcement is imperfect; mistakes can occur in DUI arrests, from lack of probable cause to procedural errors, breathalyzer defects, and more.

However, you will need an attorney who can investigate every aspect of your situation to build a defense that casts doubt on the prosecution. Our capable team understands the legal, scientific, technical, and even medical elements that can impact the outcome of your case.

Consult a Sumter DUI defense attorney at McDougall Self Currence McLeod to discuss the specifics of your DUI charge. Call (803) 839-1544 or contact us online for assistance.

What Constitutes DUI Under South Carolina Law?

A DUI charge occurs when law enforcement determines that you were operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two. Under South Carolina law, a DUI is typically based on blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels or observable signs of impairment by the officer.

Legal BAC Limits in South Carolina:

Drivers 21 and older. A BAC of 0.08% or higher may result in DUI charges.
Commercial drivers. A BAC of 0.04% or higher can lead to DUI charges due to the lower tolerance for drivers of commercial vehicles.
Drivers under 21. South Carolina has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21. A BAC of 0.02% or higher can result in charges.

It is possible to face DUI charges even if your BAC is below these limits if the officer observes impaired driving. Additionally, DUI drug charges may stem from impairment by prescription or illegal substances.

Potential Penalties for DUI Convictions in Sumter, SC

The penalties for a DUI conviction depend on factors like your BAC, whether it is your first offense, and whether the circumstances caused harm to another person. South Carolina has a 10-year lookback period for DUI defense.

This means that any DUI conviction within the past 10 years counts toward determining whether the current offense is a second, third, or subsequent offense.

First Offense DUI Penalties by BAC Level

BAC below 0.10%
- Fine: $400
- Jail time: 48 hours to 30 days
- License suspension: 6 months
BAC between 0.10% and 0.15%
- Fine: $500
- Jail time: 72 hours to 30 days
- License suspension: 6 months
BAC 0.16% or higher
- Fine: $1,000
- Jail time: 30 days to 90 days
- License suspension: 6 months

Second Office DUI Penalties by BAC Level

BAC below 0.10%
- Fine: $2,100 to $5,100
- Jail time: 5 days to 1 year
- License suspension: 1 year
- Ignition interlock device requirement for up to 2 years
BAC between 0.10% and 0.15%
- Fine: $2,500 to $5,100
- Jail time: 30 days to 2 years
- License suspension: 1 year
- Ignition interlock device for up to 2 years
BAC 0.16% or higher
- Fine: $3,500 to $6,500
- Jail time: 90 days to 3 years
- License suspension: 1 year
- Ignition interlock device for up to 2 years

Third Offense DUI Penalties by BAC Level

BAC below 0.10%
- Fine: $3,800 to $6,300
- Jail time: 60 days to 3 years
- License suspension: 2 years
- Ignition interlock device for 3 years
BAC between 0.10% and 0.15%
- Fine: $5,000 to $7,500
- Jail time: 90 days to 4 years
- License suspension: 2 years
- Ignition interlock device for 3 years
BAC 0.16% or higher
- Fine: $7,500 to $10,000
- Jail time: 6 months to 5 years
- License suspension: 2 years
- Ignition interlock device for 3 years

In South Carolina, a fourth DUI offense is treated as a felony and carries even more severe penalties, including permanent revocation of your driver’s license with no eligibility for reinstatement.

Felony DUI causing injury or death carries the following penalties:

Injury. Up to 15 years in prison and fines up to $10,100.
Death. Up to 25 years in prison and fines up to $25,100.

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Why Choose McDougall Self Currence McLeod?

Experienced Representation for Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, and Family Law

Award Winning Advocates
With leadership in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and a history of prestigious awards, we provide the highest caliber of legal representation for your family’s future.
Strategic and Effective Legal Guidance

We believe in practical, results-driven solutions tailored to your unique needs. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, we take the approach that best serves your goals—aggressive when necessary, amicable when possible.

Personalized Service for Every Client
Our team understands that every case is different. That’s why we offer tailored legal strategies, ensuring you receive the right level of advocacy. No matter your situation, we are here to guide you with clarity, compassion, and confidence.
Experienced Representation
With nearly three decades of service and over 90 years of combined experience, McDougall Self Currence McLeod is recognized as a leader in South Carolina family law.

Put Our Experienced Attorneys on Your Side in a Sumter DUI Charge

Dealing with a DUI charge on your own can be overwhelming and risky. The legal system is complex, and the consequences of a conviction are too severe to face without professional help.

Hiring a defense attorney at McDougall Self Currence McLeod is critical:

We can assertively protect your rights at every phase of the legal process.
We can work to minimize penalties. Even if conviction is unavoidable, we may be able to negotiate reduced charges, fines, or alternative sentencing, such as community service.
We can help you avoid costly mistakes. Navigating the legal system alone can lead to expensive errors, but an attorney’s knowledge can help reduce such risks.
You can have peace of mind. Having an attorney in your corner provides relief in knowing your case is in professional hands.

From conducting a detailed investigation into your situation to uncovering potential defenses, challenging evidence in court, or advocating for alternative sentencing options, McDougall Self Currence McLeod can take every legal measure to help you pursue the best possible result.

Call (803) 839-1544 or complete our online contact form to consult a Sumter DUI defense lawyer today.

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