The moments following a Drunk Driving arrest are stressful and confusing. If you are facing DUI charges in Myrtle Beach, the most critical thing you can do is seek clear legal guidance immediately. As a dedicated Myrtle Beach Defense Lawyer, Melinda Knowles is here to provide the clarity you need to protect your rights. This article outlines the essential steps and immediate concerns following your arrest in the Horry County area.
The Initial Steps After a DUI Arrest in Horry County
The legal process moves quickly after a DUI arrest. Understanding these initial steps is vital:
- Implied Consent: In SC, refusing a roadside breathalyzer test (called “Implied Consent”) results in an automatic, separate administrative suspension of your license. You only have a short window to challenge this suspension.
- Bond Hearing: After your Drunk Driving arrest, you will likely have a bond hearing where a judge sets the terms of your release. An attorney can argue for a lower bond or favorable conditions.
- The Initial Appearance: You will eventually be scheduled for a hearing in traffic court. Failing to appear will result in an immediate Bench Warrant for your arrest.
Understanding South Carolina DUI Penalties
A conviction for DUI charges in Myrtle Beach carries severe consequences under SC penalties, even for a first offense:
- Jail Time: Ranging from 48 hours to 90 days (or community service in lieu of jail).
- Fines: Up to several thousand dollars, plus court fees.
- License Suspension: Mandatory suspension, which requires applying for an ignition interlock device (IID) to drive legally.
The penalties increase dramatically if your blood alcohol content (BAC) was above 0.10 or 0.16.
Critical Defense Mistakes to Avoid
Your actions immediately following the arrest are crucial. Do not:
- Discuss Your Case: Do not speak to police, investigators, or even friends about the specifics of your Drunk Driving incident without a Myrtle Beach Defense Lawyer present. Anything you say can and will be used against you.
- Wait to Hire Counsel: Every day you delay makes it harder to gather evidence, preserve key video footage, or challenge procedural errors made during your arrest.
Your Myrtle Beach Defense Strategy Starts Now
A strong DUI defense can challenge the state’s case by questioning the validity of the traffic stop, the administration of field sobriety tests, the calibration of the breathalyzer device, or the legality of your arrest.
If you are facing serious DUI charges in Myrtle Beach, don’t go to traffic court alone. Protecting your rights and fighting for justice is what we do.
CONTACT US TODAY for a confidential consultation with a skilled Myrtle Beach Defense Lawyer.