What are the SC DUI Penalties?
SC DUI penalties can result in jail time and substantial fines, making it a serious offense. If you're facing DUI charges in the state, it's crucial to understand the potential consequences of your actions. Below you'll find the details of DUI jail time and fines in South Carolina, and what you can expect if you're found guilty of this offense.
Whether you're a first-time offender or have a history of DUI convictions, this information will help you navigate the legal system and make informed decisions about your case.
The Penalties for DUI in SC Vary, Depending on the Charge
First Offense DUI
If this is your first offense DUI, the criminal penalties you may face are directly related to your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC), found in the results of your breathalyzer test or a blood test conducted after your arrest.
- A BAC between .08 and .15: a fine of $500 not including additional court costs, up to 72 hours of community service, and in some cases, anywhere from 3 to 30 days in jail;
- A BAC of .16 or higher: a $1,000 fine in addition to court costs, up to 30 days of community service, and as many as 90 days in jail.
DUI Second Offense
If you're charged with a second DUI after a prior DUI conviction, you may face the following penalties:
- Second DUI conviction (within 10 years of first): a fine between $2,100 and $5,100, in addition to court costs, and a sentence of jail time ranging from a minimum of 5 days to one year in prison.
- A BAC between .10 and .15: will get you a fine of $2,100 to $5,100, plus court costs, and a jail sentence of anywhere from 30 days to two years in prison
- A BAC of .16 or higher: will cost you from between $3,500 to $6,300 in fines, in addition to court costs, and a jail sentence of a minimum 90 days up to three years in prison
- One year suspension of your driver's license
- Court ordered certificate of completion of a drug and alcohol treatment program
- Required installation of an ignition interlock device for a period of two years
3rd Offense DUI
If this is your 3rd DUI offense, your penalties may be doubled:
- A third DUI conviction (within 10 years of first): a fine between $3,800 and $6,300, plus court costs; a jail sentence of 60 days to three years in prison
- A BAC between .10 and .15: a fine between $5,000 to $7,500, plus court costs; 90 days in jail to four years in prison
- A BAC between .16 and above: a fine between $7,500 to $10,000, plus court costs; six months in jail to five years in prison
- Court ordered certificate of completion of a drug and alcohol treatment program
- License suspension
- Required installation of an ignition interlock device for a period of three years.
Repeat and Felony DUI
Four or more drunk driving offenses within a 10 year span is considered a felony DUI in South Carolina. Penalties include incarceration for up to seven years and an automatic suspension of your driver's license. Furthermore, repeat, felony DUI conviction may have a long-term impact on your employability and your insurance costs.
The penalties for Boating Under the Influence (BUI) are also severe. Find out more about BUI Charges in South Carolina.
DUI Penalties are increased in the following cases:
- if a minor is in the vehicle at the time of arrest;
- if the blood alcohol content (BAC)of the driver is greater than or equal to 0.10, or;
- if an accident occurs as a result of the DUI offense;
- if this is a repeat DUI charge.
If any of these are true, you may also be subject to license suspension, completion of a drug and alcohol treatment program, or the required installation of an ignition interlock device in your car.
Fines and financial penalties may continue to add up as you deal with the aftermath of a DUI. If you are a minor charged with underage DUI, you may lose your FAFSA eligibility.
Having an experienced DUI lawyer in Columbia SC can help you reduce potential penalties and protect your freedoms.