In Need of a Skilled DUI Defense Lawyer in Columbia?
Protecting Your Rights After a Driving Under the Influence Charge in Richland and Lexington Counties
At the David W. Marin Law Group, our Columbia DUI defense attorneys understand that being charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) can affect every aspect of your life—from your freedom and finances to your employment and personal relationships. In South Carolina, a DUI conviction carries severe penalties, and the solicitor’s office in Columbia aggressively prosecutes these cases.
If you’ve been arrested for DUI, time is not on your side. Deadlines come fast from your license suspension hearing to your criminal court date. Our defense attorneys are ready to act immediately to protect your rights and future.
Call today for a confidential consultation with our Richland and Lexington County DUI lawyers, who know how to fight back.
Understanding DUI Charges in South Carolina
Under South Carolina law (Section 56-5-2930), it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any other substance that materially and appreciably impairs your ability to drive safely.
DUI charges can result from:
- A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
- Refusal to take a breath or blood test.
- Officer observations of impaired behavior or field sobriety test performance.
Unlike DUAC, DUI charges require the prosecution to prove that you were impaired, not just that your BAC exceeded a certain level. Whether this is your first offense or a repeat charge, our Columbia DUI lawyers will clearly explain your rights and options.
Penalties for DUI in Columbia, South Carolina
DUI penalties in South Carolina become more severe with each conviction.
Even a first offense can carry serious consequences, including:
- Fines up to $1,000.
- Jail time ranging from 48 hours to 90 days.
- Driver’s license suspension for 6 months or more.
- Mandatory completion of the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program (ADSAP).
- SR-22 insurance requirements.
- Ignition Interlock Device installation requirements.
Subsequent offenses can result in years of imprisonment, longer license suspensions, and permanent marks on your criminal record.
We work tirelessly to reduce or eliminate the penalties you face—contact us as soon as possible.
Challenging a DUI Charge in Columbia, South Carolina
A DUI charge does not equal a conviction. Our Columbia DUI attorneys are skilled in challenging the prosecution’s case and questioning every aspect of the stop, arrest, and testing procedures.
We build strong defenses by analyzing:
- Whether the traffic stop was lawful.
- Accuracy and reliability of breathalyzer or blood test results.
- Field sobriety test administration and interpretation.
- Miranda rights advisement and other constitutional protections.
- Chain of custody of test samples.
Our job is to uncover weaknesses in the state’s case and use them to your advantage. We’re ready to fight for you.
Administrative Consequences: License Suspension
DUI charges can lead to immediate driver’s license suspension—even before a conviction. In South Carolina, refusing a breath test or testing over the legal limit can result in automatic suspension under the state’s implied consent laws.
You have a limited time to request an administrative hearing to challenge the suspension.
Our attorneys can:
- Request and represent you at your implied consent hearing.
- Work to restore your driving privileges.
- Help you apply for a temporary or restricted license.
Don’t miss your window to act—call now to protect your license and ability to drive.
First-Time and Repeat DUI Offenders in Columbia, South Carolina
We represent both first-time and repeat DUI offenders. Many first-time offenders may have opportunities for diversionary programs or plea negotiations that minimize the long-term impact. For repeat offenders, we focus on challenging the evidence, mitigating the circumstances, and protecting your freedom.
Our Columbia DUI defense lawyers help clients:
- Avoid jail time and excessive fines.
- Protect professional licenses and security clearances.
- Minimize damage to academic or military careers.
No matter your background, we’ll tailor your defense to your specific situation and goals.
DUI Defense Attorneys Serving the Columbia, South Carolina Community
Columbia is home to the University of South Carolina, Fort Jackson, and many professionals, families, and students. DUI arrests can happen to anyone after a night out in Five Points, a wrong turn near campus, or a misunderstanding during a routine stop.
We help clients from every walk of life navigate the legal system with confidence, respect, and strategic guidance. If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Columbia, you need a local attorney who knows the courts and what’s at stake.
We Also Focus on the Following Criminal Defense Services in Columbia:
- Drug Crimes Defense
- DUAC Defense
- Murder & Attempted Murder Defense
- Stolen Vehicle Possession Defense
- Sexual Conduct With a Minor Defense
- Shoplifting Defense
- Traffic Violation Defense
- Assault & Battery Defense
- Burglary Defense
- Domestic Violence Defense
- Gun Crimes
Contact Our Columbia DUI Defense Attorneys Today
A DUI arrest is not the end of the road. With experienced legal representation, you can fight back and protect your future. At the David W. Martin Law Group, our DUI attorneys serve clients in Columbia and throughout Richland and Lexington Counties with the skill, urgency, and dedication their cases demand.
Call us today at (803) 219-4902 or online to schedule your confidential consultation. We’re here to defend your future.
