A DUI is a serious matter and something that can affect the person for the rest of their life. They will want to hire a lawyer as soon as possible after they are arrested so they can receive the DUI help, Charleston, they need to ensure a better outcome for their case. Failing to do this could mean they face the maximum penalties and have a DUI on their criminal record.
What is Considered a DUI?
A person is charged with a DUI if they are caught driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. The amount can be as low as .04% if they are driving a commercial vehicle at the time or .02% if the person is under 21 years of age. They can be charged if they are pulled over while driving, found asleep at the wheel, or if they are tested after an accident.
What Are the Penalties?
For a first DUI, the person faces up to six months in jail, up to $1,000 in fines, and a license suspension of up to 45 days. A second DUI will mean up to 12 months in jail, up to $3,000 in fines and a license suspension for up to one year. A third DUI can mean up to three years in jail, up to $5,000 in fines, and up to a year with a suspended license. The person may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on their vehicle for a period once they can drive again.
Why Will the Person Need Help?
A DUI charge, on top of the penalties above, can make it difficult for the person to obtain a job or rent an apartment. With the right DUI help Charleston, the person may be able to have the charges lowered or dismissed. This can mean they won’t be sentenced to the penalties above and might be able to avoid having a criminal record.
Even if a person knows they were drinking, they should still contact a lawyer for DUI help, Charleston. The lawyer might be able to find a reason for the evidence to be suppressed so the person won’t be convicted of a DUI. Contact an attorney as soon as possible for DUI help Charleston so you can avoid the harsh penalties mentioned above and ensure your rights are protected through the entire case.
