A DUI arrest could affect more than just your criminal record, interfering with your daily life and driving privileges. Even a single arrest for DUI can lead to an administrative or criminal license suspension, along with fines, jail time, increased insurance rates, and the installation of an ignition interlock device.
As you navigate this challenging time, our goal is to help you stay on the road while we fight your charges. Skilled DUI attorney Christopher L. Jones understands that losing your ability to drive could negatively impact all facets of your life. Schedule a consultation to learn how he could help you avoid driver’s license suspension in Greenville DUI cases.
What are the Types of DUI Driver’s License Suspensions?
If you were pulled over for a suspected DUI in Greenville, you may face suspension of your driver’s license. Several types of suspensions could apply, with the most common being an administrative license suspension triggered at the time of your arrest. A court-ordered suspension, in contrast, occurs only if you are convicted of a DUI.
Some convictions could result in an ignition interlock-only restriction, meaning your driver’s license is not necessarily suspended, as long as you agree to install an ignition interlock system in your vehicle. These restrictions are usually applied if your blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) was high or if you have previous DUI offenses on your record.
Immediate Administrative Suspension
Under certain circumstances in South Carolina, a police officer can issue an immediate notice of license suspension and confiscate your driver’s license at the scene of your arrest. This most commonly occurs when individuals do not comply with the state’s implied consent stipulations.
For a first DUI offense, this type of administrative suspension typically lasts for six months. However, the duration may increase with each subsequent DUI-related arrest.
If your license has been suspended after a DUI in Greenville, it is essential to request an administrative hearing as soon as possible. An experienced attorney could help guide you through the legal process. In many cases, you may be eligible for a temporary license that allows you to continue operating a vehicle while your appeal is pending.
Criminal-Case Suspensions After DUI Conviction
For most first-time offenders, this suspension typically lasts for six months. However, additional offenses may lead to several years of suspension. In serious cases, the courts may permanently revoke your driver’s license.
It is also important to understand that administrative and criminal license suspensions can accumulate, meaning you could face several legal hurdles to get your license back. In such cases, working with an experienced defense attorney is essential. The right legal guidance could give you the best chance of minimizing the impact of your DUI charge on your life.
Learn More About DUI Driver’s License Suspensions From a Greenville Lawyer
The right attorney could help you take action and fight against driver’s license suspension in Greenville DUI cases. Lawyer Christopher L. Jones offers insight from both sides of the bench as a former prosecutor and municipal judge with a track record of reduced suspensions and dismissed DUIs.
Although our firm is small, we pride ourselves on delivering big results. Schedule a free consultation today and learn how Christopher L. Jones, Attorney at Law could help you stay behind the wheel.
