Myrtle Beach, SC DUI Lawyer

Most of us know drinking and driving isn’t a good idea, but sometimes mistakes happen. Perhaps you misjudged the strength of a cocktail in a bar, or maybe you had a momentary judgment lapse. All of a sudden, you’re in jail, facing charges for Driving Under the influence. South Carolina takes a hard stance against people charged with DUI. But, you may be able to mitigate your penalties or even have the charges reduced or dropped altogether with the help of a skilled Myrtle Beach, SC DUI lawyer from Joe Good, Attorney at Law. You can contact us today for a free consultation so we can get started on protecting your freedom!

Do I Need A Myrtle Beach DUI Lawyer

Many people charged with DUI may not think they need a lawyer. However, your case could have aggravating factors that could seriously impact your penalties. Perhaps you struck another vehicle or stationary object while driving under the influence. You could be facing felony charges – and you definitely don’t want to do that alone!

Even if you simply received a DUI charge because you were stopped at a checkpoint (very common in Myrtle Beach during tourist season!) or were pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence, a DUI lawyer can still be a big help. The penalties for DUI in South Carolina include a license suspension, affecting your ability to go to work or fulfill your other responsibilities. You may also face a stiff fine or be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device (at your expense). One mistake could have costly consequences.

An attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor on your behalf for a lesser penalty, possibly avoiding jail time or a license suspension. Your attorney can also investigate the circumstances leading to your DUI arrest. Maybe there were errors, like an improperly administered field sobriety test or the officer illegally stopped you. In these cases, your charges could be dropped if mistakes were made in your stop, arrest, or sobriety testing.

A DUI Can Change The Rest Of Your Life

Your consequences for a Myrtle Beach DUI charge don’t stop with jail time and fines. Your driving record is impacted, too. Now, you have a permanent charge on your criminal record. Any other DUI charges or traffic-related offenses may carry higher penalties because you are a “repeat offender.”

Your employment opportunities could also be affected. If you want to do a job that requires driving, like traveling sales or commercial driving, employers may not hire you because of the DUI on your record. It’s important to work with a Myrtle Beach DUI lawyer to help minimize the impact of this one mistake on the rest of your life.

Creating A Defense For A DUI

In the realm of legal defense, particularly for cases involving driving under the influence (DUI), there exists a diverse array of strategies that skilled lawyers can employ to safeguard clients’ rights and interests. Understanding these approaches is crucial for anyone facing such charges, as they can significantly impact the outcome of a case. It is always crucial to reach out to an excellent Myrtle Beach, SC DUI lawyer if you are accused of driving while intoxicated. The lawyers at Joe Good, Attorney at Law would be more than happy to take a look at your case.

The Importance Of A Robust Defense Strategy

When accused of DUI, it’s essential to realize the gravity of the situation. The consequences of a conviction can be far-reaching, affecting not just one’s driving privileges but also their employment opportunities, social relationships, and overall reputation. This underscores the need for a well-crafted defense, tailored to the specifics of each case.

Key Defense Approaches In DUI Cases

Several key defense strategies stand out due to their effectiveness and frequency of use in DUI cases. These strategies are not one-size-fits-all solutions but rather potential avenues that an experienced Myrtle Beach DUI lawyer might explore based on the unique circumstances of each case.

Examining The Traffic Stop

One critical aspect is the examination of the initial traffic stop. Legal counsel might scrutinize whether law enforcement had a valid reason to make the stop, ensuring that a client’s constitutional rights were not violated.

Accuracy Of Field Sobriety Tests

Another area of focus is the field sobriety tests. These tests can be subjective and prone to error. Legal professionals often delve into how these tests were conducted, questioning their reliability and the officer’s interpretation of the results.

Breathalyzer And Blood Test Reliability

The accuracy of breathalyzer and blood tests is also a common point of contention. Issues such as calibration, maintenance of the equipment, and the protocol followed during testing can be crucial in determining the admissibility and reliability of the evidence. An experienced Myrtle Beach DUI lawyer will know how to investigate this.

Medical Conditions And Other Factors

Certain medical conditions and other factors can impact the results of sobriety tests. A lawyer with a deep understanding of these nuances can effectively argue how such conditions might have skewed the results, casting doubt on the prosecution’s case.

Chain Of Custody And Evidence Handling

The handling and processing of evidence in DUI cases are vital. Any lapses in the chain of custody or mishandling of evidence can be a strong point of defense, potentially leading to the exclusion of compromised evidence.

Building A Strong Legal Foundation

Building a defense in a DUI case involves more than just challenging evidence. It’s about understanding the law, the science behind testing methods, and the nuances of legal procedures. It requires a blend of meticulous legal knowledge and a compassionate understanding of the client’s situation.

10 Common Myths About DUIs Debunked

Our Myrtle Beach, SC DUI lawyer can share that facing a DUI charge can be highly complicated and it’s common for those who have been charged to have several misconceptions regarding DUIs. Joe Good, Attorney at Law offers legal professionals who are experienced in representing cases of this nature, and are here to debunk ten common myths about DUIs. With our experience we aim to provide you with accurate information for managing the complexities of DUI cases with confidence.

1. Myth: “I Can Refuse A Breathalyzer Test Without Consequences.”

Refusing a breathalyzer test can lead to severe repercussions, including license suspension and potential legal penalties. We advise cooperation with law enforcement while ensuring your rights are protected.

2. Myth: “I Can Talk My Way Out Of A DUI Arrest.”

Attempting to talk your way out of a DUI arrest is often ineffective. Law enforcement officers undergo rigorous training to detect signs of impairment, making it crucial to seek legal counsel from experienced DUI lawyers.

3. Myth: “I Have To Be Drunk To Get A DUI.”

Contrary to popular belief, you can be charged with a DUI even if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is below the legal limit of 0.08%. Any level of alcohol or drugs impairing your ability to drive safely can result in a DUI arrest.

4. Myth: “I Can’t Be Arrested For DUI If I’m Parked In My Car.”

Merely sitting in a parked car while intoxicated can lead to a DUI arrest if law enforcement suspects you had the intention to drive while impaired. Trust the guidance of a legal professional with experience in this area of practice to protect your rights in such situations.

5. Myth: “Field Sobriety Tests Are Accurate Indicators Of Impairment.”

Field sobriety tests are subjective and influenced by various factors. A Myrtle Beach DUI lawyer often challenge these tests as evidence of impairment, emphasizing their limitations in accurately assessing intoxication.

6. Myth: “I Can’t Afford To Hire A DUI Lawyer.”

It’s important to be aware that the cost of forgoing help from a lawyer can be significantly higher when contending with the financial burdens of DUI charges. An experienced lawyer can potentially mitigate penalties and safeguard your rights throughout the legal process.

7. Myth: “DUI Convictions Always Result In Jail Time.”

Although jail time is a possibility for DUI convictions, it’s not inevitable. With effective legal representation, alternative sentencing options such as probation or community service may be pursued.

8. Myth: “I Can’t Challenge The Results Of A Breathalyzer Test.”

Breathalyzer test results can be challenged in court by knowledgeable legal professionals. Factors such as calibration errors or medical conditions may impact the accuracy of these tests, highlighting the importance of legal advocacy.

9. Myth: “I Should Plead Guilty To Get It Over With.”

Pleading guilty without consulting a lawyer can have long-term consequences, including a permanent criminal record and increased insurance premiums. It’s essential to explore all legal options before making any decisions.

10. Myth: “I Can Handle My DUI Case On My Own.”

Attempting to handle a DUI case without legal representation is risky. Lawyers possess the experience and resources to navigate the legal system effectively, ensuring your rights are protected and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case.

DUI Laws in Myrtle Beach FAQs

What are the DUI laws in Myrtle Beach, SC? 

In Myrtle Beach, as in the rest of South Carolina, driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers is 0.08%. If you are found operating a vehicle with a BAC at or above this limit, you can be charged with DUI. Additionally, drivers under 21 years old can face DUI charges with a BAC of 0.02% or higher, and commercial drivers can be charged with a BAC of 0.04% or higher.

What are the penalties for a DUI in Myrtle Beach? 

Penalties for a DUI conviction in Myrtle Beach can vary depending on factors like prior offenses and the circumstances of the incident. However, common penalties include fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs, community service, and even jail time. Subsequent DUI offenses typically result in harsher penalties.

Can I refuse a breathalyzer or chemical test in Myrtle Beach? 

South Carolina operates under an implied consent law, meaning that by driving on the state’s roads, you have already consented to chemical testing if lawfully arrested for DUI. Refusing a breathalyzer or other chemical test can lead to an automatic license suspension, regardless of whether you are ultimately convicted of DUI. However, it’s important to consult with a legal professional about the specifics of your situation.

Are there enhanced penalties for aggravated DUI in Myrtle Beach? 

Yes, certain circumstances can elevate a DUI charge to aggravated DUI, resulting in harsher penalties. Aggravating factors may include having a high BAC at the time of arrest, causing an accident resulting in injury or death, driving with a suspended or revoked license, or having prior DUI convictions.

How can I defend against a DUI charge in Myrtle Beach? 

Defending against a DUI charge requires a strategic approach tailored to the unique circumstances of your case. Possible defenses may include challenging the legality of the traffic stop or arrest, disputing the accuracy of chemical test results, or demonstrating procedural errors in the handling of your case. Consulting with a knowledgeable DUI attorney in Myrtle Beach is essential to explore all available options for your defense.

Contact An Experienced Myrtle Beach DUI Lawyer Today

Do you need help with a DUI charge in Myrtle Beach? Are you worried about losing your freedom or having a permanent criminal charge on your record? We can help! Contact Joe Good, Attorney at Law, today for a free consultation!

Facing a DUI charge can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. It’s a journey that no one should have to navigate alone. Seeking the assistance of a dedicated lawyer who is well-versed in the complexities of DUI law is not just a wise decision—it’s a crucial step towards ensuring a fair and just outcome.

For anyone finding themselves in this challenging situation, it’s imperative to act promptly. Time is often a critical factor in preparing an effective defense. Reaching out for a consultation can provide not only peace of mind but also a clear understanding of the legal options available. In the legal arena, having an experienced advocate can make all the difference. A Myrtle Beach DUI lawyer from Joe Good, Attorney at Law can begin to help you as soon as you reach out.