Columbia First-Time DUI Defense Attorney
A first-time DUI arrest is a serious matter than can lead to a number of complications in a person's life. Depending on the circumstances of your case, if convicted for drunk driving, you face the suspension of your driver's license, a fine and jail time. The judge may also require you to attend a drug and alcohol treatment program.
At my law firm, the Law Office of David B. Tarr, LLC [Link to Firm Overview], I represent numerous first-time DUI offenders. Depending on the specifics of your case, it may be possible to have the sentence against you reduced or the DUI charge thrown out altogether. Discuss your case with me, Columbia first-time DUI defense lawyer David B. Tarr, today.
I Will Analyze All Potential Defenses in Your Situation
As your dedicated criminal defense attorney, there are a number of issues that I will automatically review in any DUI arrest. For instance:
- Did the arresting officer have reasonable suspicion to pull you over in the first place?
- Did he conduct the field sobriety test appropriately?
- If a Breathalyzer or blood test was used to test your blood alcohol content (BAC), are there reasons to think the test used wasn't accurate?
As your lawyer, I will meticulously review these issues to determine if there are grounds to dismiss the charges against you.
Non-Criminal Consequences for a First-Time DUI Conviction
Aside from the criminal DUI penalties you face, there are other consequences that may affect you as well. Insurance companies regularly gather information on DUI arrests and DUI convictions. As a result, your insurance costs will likely increase substantially. You will also have a criminal record, which could affect your employment opportunities or your current job if your employer has a zero-tolerance policy regarding criminal convictions. Additionally, you will face numerous administrative penalties with regard to your driving privileges.
Focused Legal Advocacy for College Students and Their Parents
If you are a college student and you are convicted of a first-time DUI, you could face expulsion from school and the loss of any federally funded grants or loans. Do not allow one mistake to hurt your future. Whether you are a student or the parent of a student at the University of South Carolina, I am here to help you through this process and fight to keep this DUI charge off your record.
SR-22 Auto Insurance and DUI Convictions
In the state of South Carolina, if you are convicted of drunk driving you will be required to purchase and carry SR-22 insurance for a period of three years. Premiums for SR-22 insurance are more expensive, as it is intended for high-risk drivers who are typically unable to purchase auto insurance.
Contact Me, Richland County First DWI Charges Lawyer David B. Tarr
If you've been arrested on a first-time DUI charge, contact me, DUI defense attorney David B. Tarr, today to schedule your free initial consultation. Reach me locally in Columbia at 803-753-1824 or call me toll free across the state at 866-959-4706.