Now What?
I have been arrested for DUI, now what?
Being arrested for DUI can be a traumatic experience. We realize the loss of one's freedom for even a short amount of time can be stressful. Steve Sumner offers the following tips that may be of benefit to you during this period:
- Remember an arrest is not a conviction. All that is needed to arrest or charge someone is suspicion on an officer's part that a crime occurred. Proof beyond a reasonable doubt is required for a conviction. The standard of proof is much higher than the suspicion standard needed to justify an arrest.
- If your vehicle was towed, make sure immediate arrangements are made to have it picked up. Storage fees can accumulate very quickly.
- If your license was seized due to a refusal or registering over a .15 on the breathalyzer, you will need to request a hearing in order to obtain temporary driving privileges. Contact our office immediately for assistance in proper procedure. You have only a 30 day window to request this hearing.
- Information found on the internet in regards to DUI is for general information only. There is no substitute for the experience and advice of competent legal counsel. Be advised that each state has different laws/punishment for DUI and many sites are not kept current. Each case has its own characteristics.
- If you choose to go to your court date without counsel, a bench trial can be held at that time and you will most likely be convicted on the spot. The laws in South Carolina regarding DUI/DUAC are very complex and we highly recommend that you visit with an attorney who is familiar with these areas well in advance of the court date.
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