A DUI charge can stay with you for years, no matter your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). In South Carolina, even a minor offense with a 0.08 BAC can appear on your driving record for ten years and remain on your criminal record permanently.
When your DUI arrest includes aggravated DUI charges, the fines and potential jail time increase drastically. Consult with a Greenville aggravated DUI lawyer from Christopher L. Jones, Attorney at Law, for help understanding your legal options. As a former prosecutor and municipal judge, skilled DUI attorney Christopher L. Jones has years of experience helping people in your situation protect their rights.
What Does Aggravated DUI Mean?
An aggravated DUI often means that there was a DUI infraction along with other extenuating circumstances involved in your arrest. For instance, aggravated DUI will be listed on arrest records if a person:
- Had a remarkably high BAC level of double the legal amount or more
- Has been charged with multiple DUIs
- Was involved in an accident that caused bodily injury or death
- Was caught driving while impaired with a minor in the vehicle
- Caused property damage
- Was arrested for a DUI while operating a commercial vehicle
A DUI is usually a misdemeanor, but when an aggravated DUI charge is applied, it constitutes a felony offense. Felony charges can follow you for life, and the potential penalties are much harsher if found guilty, making it important to contact a Greenville attorney as soon as possible after being charged with aggravated DUI.
What is the Penalty for Aggravated DUI?
In South Carolina, the penalty for an aggravated DUI varies depending on the circumstances of your arrest. For instance:
- A fourth DUI within ten years could result in imprisonment for up to five years and permanent license suspension
- A DUI charge given during an accident that involved significant bodily injury could lead to 15 years in jail and a fine of up to $10,100
- DUI incidents involving a death could result in fines up to $25,100 and up to 25 years in jail
Not all aggravated DUI cases end the same. In some cases, jail sentences can be shortened if the offender completes community service or a drug and alcohol rehabilitation program. If you keep driving privileges, you may satisfy the courts by meeting SR-22 insurance requirements or installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on all your vehicles.
If you have concerns about your future, speak with a skilled lawyer who understands South Carolina DUI charges and knows how to assist you against harsh penalties. Attorney Christopher L. Jones is here to help you protect your rights and fight aggravated DUI charges in Greenville.
Is it Possible to Defend Against Aggravated DUI?
Defending yourself against aggravated DUI charges is not easy, especially if other people are involved. In such situations, you could also face additional claims or legal consequences. For example, in the case of an accident, injured individuals may try to sue you for damages or liability, leading to more court appearances.
A defense against these charges is possible if you can demonstrate:
- There were procedural errors on the part of law enforcement officials
- There is insufficient evidence for aggravated DUI
- The breathalyzer or field sobriety tests were incorrect
- The police violated your constitutional rights, such as failing to read your Miranda Rights
- The arrest forms suffered from inaccurate dates, misspellings, and incomplete information
A Greenville lawyer could reduce the aggravated DUI charges against you with a strong defense.
Contact an Aggravated DUI Lawyer in Greenville
Consulting with a Greenville aggravated DUI lawyer could give you the best chance at a strong defense. Working with Christopher L. Jones means working with an attorney who takes pride in getting the best results for his clients. Contact Christopher L. Jones, Attorney at Law, today for personalized legal assistance.
