Getting charged with a DUI is always a serious matter. For South Carolina’s active-duty military personnel, it creates even more complications. One arrest can cause issues in both civilian courts and military systems. It may impact your ability to drive, your current role, your promotion prospects, or even your future military career.
Trying to handle both civilian and military consequences at the same time can feel confusing and stressful. You may be unsure about what steps to take or how to protect your career and reputation moving forward. That is why it is so important to have the right legal help from the very start.
If you are an active-duty member dealing with a DUI charge in South Carolina, reach out to Truslow & Truslow PA to speak with a lawyer who understands how to guide you through this process and help you protect your future.
DUI Laws in South Carolina
South Carolina law treats DUI charges with utmost gravity. Law enforcement can arrest you for driving under the influence if your blood alcohol concentration hits 0.08 percent or higher. Even with a lower BAC, you might face charges if the officer thinks alcohol or drugs have impacted your driving ability.
A first-time DUI offense can result in several penalties. You might have to pay fines, lose your driving privileges for a while, attend alcohol education classes, or even spend time in jail. The higher your BAC, the tougher the penalties can be. If an accident or injury happened while you were driving, the situation becomes even more serious. For repeat offenses, the punishment only gets stricter with longer suspensions, higher fines, and more time behind bars.
Refusing a breath test also carries its own problems. South Carolina follows an implied consent rule, which means that refusing to take the test can lead to your license being suspended automatically.
For those serving in the military, a DUI does not just stay in the civilian system. It can affect your standing in the service as well. That’s why you need to know what you’re up against and take the right steps. Talking to a lawyer who knows both civilian and military cases can help you figure out the best way to handle things going forward.
How a DUI Can Affect Your Military Career
When you’re in the military, a DUI charge can mess up more than just your civilian record. The military holds its members to a higher standard of behavior, and any legal issues can cause big problems for your career.
After a DUI arrest, your command may step in quickly. You might be assigned extra duties, lose certain privileges, or be pulled from assignments while your case is being handled. Every branch handles these situations a little differently, but they all take them seriously.
Your security clearance could be in jeopardy too. A lot of military positions need one, and a DUI might make those in charge worry about your ability to meet the standards required to maintain that clearance. If you lose it, you might find your options for assignments or promotions become fewer.
A DUI on your record can also damage your chances to move up in your career. It can make you less likely to get promotions, special assignments, or leadership roles. In some cases repeated problems or a serious incident could even result in you being kicked out of the service.
The military takes a close look at both your job performance and personal behavior, so they’ll review any legal troubles like this carefully. If you’re dealing with a DUI charge while in service, getting guidance from an attorney who knows both military and civilian laws can help as you plan what to do next.
Steps to Take After a DUI Arrest
A DUI arrest can feel overwhelming, especially when you are serving in the military. In moments like this, knowing what steps to take next can help you protect both your future and your career.
First, keep your cool. Work with the police, but remember you don’t have to answer questions that might hurt your case later. You can stay quiet and ask for a lawyer.
After things calm down, you need to tell your chain of command about the arrest. The military wants you to be honest about legal troubles. Telling them shows you’re responsible and might help when they look at your situation.
Make sure to keep all documents related to the arrest. This includes court notices, DMV paperwork, and anything else you receive. Staying organized will make it easier to handle both the legal and military processes.
One of the best moves you can make is to contact a DUI lawyer who understands both the civilian and military angles of these cases. A lawyer who knows how to work in both systems can help you out. The earlier you get legal help, the better shot you have at guarding your record and your military job.
Speak With a South Carolina DUI Lawyer Today
Facing a DUI charge while serving in the military can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to go through it alone. A DUI lawyer who understands both the civilian and military systems can help you protect your rights, your career, and your future. Do not wait to get the guidance you need. Reach out to Truslow & Truslow PA today to discuss your options and take the first step forward.