Felony DUI | The Lovely Law Firm | Criminal Defense Lawyer

Felony DUI

Felony DUI: An Overview

While any charge of driving under the influence is serious, a felony DUI charge is a matter that can carry particularly large consequences. From revocation of a driver’s license to potential jail time, such a charge can be extremely disruptive to one’s life. This article provides an overview of felony DUI,

Felony DUI in South Carolina

If you have been charged with Felony DUI seek immediate help. 843-839-4111

including what raises the charge to the level of a felony and what penalties accompany such a conviction.

Felony DUI Defined

In South Carolina, it is against the law to operate a vehicle with a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. An individual can be charged with a felony DUI when he or she causes serious bodily injury or death while driving under the influence. “Great bodily injury” is defined in South Carolina as “bodily injury which creates a substantial risk of death or which causes serious, permanent disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ.”

An individual can also be charged with felony DUI if charged for a fourth or subsequent offense.

Penalties for Felony DUI in South Carolina

Penalties for felony DUI convictions are dependent on whether an injury or death occurred while operating the vehicle while under the influence. With each outcome, the driver faces mandatory minimum penalties, which means that the penalties may not be suspended, and probation may not be granted to reduce the sentence.

Great Bodily Injury

In cases where great bodily injury has occurred, an individual convicted of a felony DUI will face between 30 days and 15 years in jail. In addition, the individual must pay a fine between $5,100 and $10,100.

Death

In a case that has resulted in death, an individual will face a sentence of one to 25 years in prison, along with a fine of $10,100 and $25,100.

Fourth or Subsequent Offense

Individuals who have been convicted of a fourth or subsequent offense of driving under the influence will face a prison sentence between one and five years, along with a fine determined by the court.

Once an individual has completed the mandated prison sentence, his or her driver’s license will be suspended for three to five years, based on whether great bodily injury or death occurred. In the case of a fourth or subsequent offense, the individual’s driver’s license will be suspended permanently.

Don’t Wait—Call Today!

If you or a loved one have been charged with a felony DUI, it is critical to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The experienced criminal defense attorneys at the Lovely Law Firm are here to assist you with your case and fight for the best possible outcome. To schedule a case evaluation at no charge, please call (843) 839-4111.

 

Every case is different. Results vary.

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