A first conviction of driving under the influence usually results in relatively lenient penalties compared with repeated offenses. Nevertheless, judges can impose harsher sentences if this seems advisable under the circumstances. A criminal defense attorney in Charleston, SC, may be necessary to help the person avoid jail time or at least have only a brief period of incarceration.
Aggravating Factors
Judges are more likely to sentence a person convicted of DUI to jail time if aggravating factors are involved. For example, if the driver causes any type of accident, a jail sentence is significantly more likely. The person might have backed into a utility pole, hit a traffic light while turning, or caused a fender bender.
The situation worsens substantially when the driver has severely injured someone. In South Carolina, judges can sentence convicted offenders up to 15 years in prison. Hiring a skilled criminal defense attorney in Charleston, SC, is crucial to prevent the worst consequences.
A Strong Defense
Sometimes, a DUI lawyer can find a way to persuade the district attorney to drop the charges or a judge to dismiss the case. If this isn’t possible, the lawyer builds a strong case for the client’s defense. The attorney’s goal now is convincing the judge to issue the minimum sentence mandated by law. In some instances, there is no incarceration requirement. In more serious scenarios, the minimum still could be as short as 30 days.
Anyone needing legal defense for a DUI charge may find contact details at website.