4 things to know if you’re stopped for a DUI in South Carolina
- Consider your rights and protecting those rights by hiring legal representation. Hiring an attorney can help maximize your chances of a more favorable outcome. As a trained legal professional Attorney Peter McCoy has the legal experience to fight for your rights and fair representation.
- Many people misconstrue the definition of a ‘suspended license’. A license suspension does not mean you will not be able to drive for the allotted time, in South Carolina for first-time DUIs that’s a 6-month suspension if you refuse a breathalyzer test. Refusing a breathalyzer means that you will need to install an ignition-interlock device (IID) on your vehicle.
- What tests can and should you refuse? A field sobriety test is 100% optional and voluntary. Also known as the walk and turn tests or the one-legged stand test. Police officers use these tests to look for incriminating evidence. Chemical tests on the other hand can be refused but they come with some consequences. As stated above, refusing a breathalyzer test means that your license will be suspended, and you will need an IID to use your car. If you do not refuse this test your license will be suspended but only a provisional license might be necessary to drive during the 6-month suspension.
- Don’t Say Anything. You have the right to remain silent. The less you say, the fewer the chances you have at incriminating yourself. If you have been pulled over, give the police officer your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance. Anything more is simply not required. The reason we say to remain silent is because anything you do say can be used against you in the court of law. That’s why the Miranda Rights famously say “Anything you say can and will be held against you…”
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one has been charged with a DUI in South Carolina, the team at McCoy Law Group is here to help fight for you. Peter McCoy of the McCoy Law Group has over 20 years of experience handling criminal cases. He can walk you or your loved one through all the details necessary to help get you back on track.









