Stopped for a DUI? Know Your Rights

Stopped for a DUI? Know Your Rights

It’s never a good feeling when you see the flashing lights of a police car behind you – especially if you had a drink or two before you got behind the wheel. While we never want anyone to drink and drive, we also want you to know your rights if you suspect an officer is going to give you a DUI charge. The DUI lawyers at the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. want to share the following information.

DUI Tests

All states have implied consent rules regarding DUI stops and arrests. This means that drivers who are suspected of driving under the influence must submit to a DUI chemical test. These are usually breath or blood tests. Refusing to take the test could lead to a license suspension.

DUI Questioning

Before you respond to an officer’s questions, make sure they offer a Miranda warning. This is basically a reminder from law enforcement about your rights.

Reaching Out to a Rock Hill DUI Attorney

Many people who are stopped for DUI want to know if they can get a lawyer’s advice before undergoing testing. Only a few states allow a driver to contact a lawyer, and even then, this must happen within a maximum 30-minute timeframe.

Have you been stopped for a DUI? Tell your story to the DUI attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. We’ll make sure your rights are preserved throughout the process.

How to Reinstate Your Driver’s License After a DUI

How to Reinstate Your Driver’s License After a DUI

Losing your driver’s license to a DUI charge can change many aspects of your life. You’ll have to find a ride to work, school, or appointments, which may sound easier than it actually is. If this happens to you, you’ll probably want to reinstate your driver’s license as soon as you can. A DUI lawyer can help you understand this and other aspects of your DUI charge. Here’s some helpful information from the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. on how to reinstate your license after your DUI.

Meet with a lawyer

Take the time to meet with a DUI attorney about your charge. They’ll be able to give you clear advice on your charges and when you may expect to be eligible for license reinstatement. It’s always good to know where you stand with your charge.

Be ready to meet the requirements

Your charge may require you to fulfill certain conditions before your license is reinstated. To have a driver’s license reinstated in South Carolina after a DUI charge, you may have to complete a drug and alcohol safety program, pay a $100 minimum reinstatement fee, provide proof of insurance (which may include an SR-22), or pass a test.

Visit the DMV after your suspension period

Once your suspension period is over and you’ve met the requirements, you should visit your local DMV to apply for license reinstatement.

Choose a Rock Hill DUI lawyer who will work diligently on all aspects of your case. Call the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. today.

How to Find a Lawyer for DUI Charges in South Carolina

How to Find a Lawyer for DUI Charges in South Carolina

Hiring a lawyer for your South Carolina DUI charge is a must. However, many people struggle to find the best help they can for their cases. The Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. wants to help people who need legal advice for their drunk driving charges. Here are some general guidelines on how to find a DUI lawyer to handle your South Carolina DUI charge.

Research South Carolina DUI Attorneys

South Carolina lawyers will know our state’s court system better than anyone else. As you’re doing your research, look to see if the lawyer devotes a large part of their practice to handling DUI cases.

Get Personal Recommendations

Read reviews or talk with people who have worked with a particular law firm. What was their experience like as they fought their drunk driving charges? This will help you get a better understanding of how a lawyer conducts business and how they treat their clients.

Arrange a Meeting

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, arrange meetings with each one. Bring a list of your questions and concerns, as well as all documents concerning the charge (such as police reports). Notice how the lawyer listens to you and responds to your questions. You want someone who will dedicate their full attention to your case.

Need a DUI attorney to help you in Rock Hill, SC? Get the legal guidance you need by contacting the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr.

Criminal Penalties for a DUI in South Carolina

Criminal Penalties for a DUI in South Carolina

A DUI charge in South Carolina comes with many consequences. If you find yourself in this situation, you’ll have to face several administrative penalties. You may also face criminal charges. Both of these punishments can greatly impact your day-to-day life, not to mention your future. That’s why it’s so important that you hire a DUI lawyer to assist you with your case. Here’s an overview of the criminal penalties associated with drunk driving from the DUI attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr.

First DUI Offense

For a first-time drunk driving offense, you can expect to face a $400 fine, plus 48 hours minimum jail time. However, you could have to serve up to 30 days in jail. An alternative of 48 hours of community service may be offered.

Second DUI Offense

Your second DUI carries a fine of between $2100 and $5000. Jail time ranges from a minimum of five days to a maximum of one year.

Third DUI Offense

A third DUI charge comes with a fine of between $3800 and $6300. Your sentence comes with a minimum of 60 days in jail and a maximum of three years.

Fourth DUI Offense & Beyond

Anyone facing a fourth or subsequent drunk driving offense will face a court-determined fine. There’s also a minimum of one year in jail, but the sentence can stretch up to five years.

For Free Consultation Contact Rock Hill, SC DUI Lawyer

Your DUI lawyer will fight to make sure your rights are protected and that you get the best possible outcome. Talk to a criminal lawyer in Rock Hill, SC today at the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr.

DUI in South Carolina? Know the Administrative Penalties You May Face

DUI in South Carolina? Know the Administrative Penalties You May Face

If you find yourself facing charges for driving under the influence, you need to know exactly what you’re up against. Criminal charges are definitely a concern, but so are the administrative penalties that are given based on South Carolina’s DUI laws. Having a DUI lawyer on your side can help you navigate the court system. Here’s some helpful information from the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr.

Losing Your Driver’s License

If you’re found guilty of DUI in South Carolina, you’ll most likely lose your driver’s license. First-time offenders can expect to lose their driving privileges for six months, with subsequent offenses leading to a suspension for an undetermined amount of time. If your blood alcohol level was 0.15% or higher, even on a first offense, expect to lose your license for an indefinite term.

If you refuse to take a chemical test, your first offense will lead to a six-month suspension, regardless of your blood alcohol level. Additional offenses carry an indefinite suspension of your license.

Financial Penalties

If your license is suspended, you’ll have to pay to have it reinstated. You’ll also be required to carry SR22 coverage on your vehicle. This is a type of auto insurance for high-risk drivers. It usually comes with much higher premiums than what you may be used to paying.

Counseling

You’ll be required to complete counseling from the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services. This is an important step in the process, since it proves you’re taking responsibility for your actions. It will also hopefully help you make healthier choices in the future.

If you’re facing a drunk driving charge, call a DUI lawyer as soon as you can. A criminal lawyer at the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. will listen to your story and advise you on the next moves to make in your case.

What You Need to Know About DUI Charges in South Carolina

What You Need to Know About DUI Charges in South Carolina

DUI charges are serious offenses that come with significant consequences. One drunk driving charge can change your life forever. That’s why the criminal lawyers at the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. want you to know some important information about South Carolina’s DUI charges – and if you’re stopped for drunk driving, contact a DUI lawyer immediately.

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC)

The BAC is a measurement of alcohol intoxication in a person. At high levels, you are a danger to yourself and others should you choose to drive. In South Carolina, it is considered illegal for a person to drive with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. It is illegal for commercial drivers to drive with a BAC of 0.04%. However, it’s important to note that you can still be charged with a DUI even if you fall under the legal limit since these charges can depend on other circumstances.

Legal Consequences

A DUI charge can lead to a license suspension, fines, and jail time. This is why it’s essential that you reach out to a DUI lawyer to help you with your case.

Of course, the best defense against a DUI charge is to avoid drinking and driving altogether. But if you do need a South Carolina DUI lawyer, call the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. to schedule a consultation.