DUI Lawyer in Columbia, SC
Masella Law Protects You From the Penalties for DUI
Have you been arrested for DUI? Make your first action retaining legal representation from a DUI lawyer in Columbia, SC who can defend your rights and help you avoid harsh consequences. Our firm can contest the details of your arrest, bring strategic defenses on your behalf, and utilize our experience to pursue the best possible outcome. Our South Carolina firm has two decades of combined experience handling criminal cases, including DUI.
We understand exactly what is at stake in your case and are more than prepared to help you avoid a conviction. As a former prosecutor, Attorney Robert Masella knows that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were intoxicated while driving. Whatever the case, rest assured that our firm is prepared to advocate for you.
When you contact us soon after your arrest, we can start by explaining the charges, potential consequences, and the steps you will face in the local courts in Richland County or Lexington County. We can review the incident report, any dashcam or bodycam footage, and the results of field sobriety and breath tests to identify weaknesses in the case against you. Our goal is to give you a clear understanding of your options so that you can make informed decisions about how to move forward.
We also know that a DUI accusation can affect far more than your driving record. A conviction can impact your job, professional licenses, insurance rates, and even your ability to travel. By working closely with you and your family, we can prioritize the issues that matter most to you and pursue a defense strategy that takes your long-term goals into account. Throughout the process, we keep you updated on court dates and developments so that you never feel left in the dark about your case.
Contact our trusted DUI crime lawyer in Columbia, SC at (803) 938-4952 to schedule a confidential consultation.
What Consequences Do I Face With a DUI Conviction?
Drinking and driving is not merely a traffic violation; it is a criminal offense that carries tough penalties and long-term consequences. Our DUI lawyer in Columbia, SC, can help you address your case and work to avoid the maximum penalties, so do not hesitate to seek out our counsel.
The penalties for DUI are severe, including:
- First conviction - A $400 fine and between 48 hours and 30 days in jail.
- Second conviction - Up to $5,100 in fines and a jail sentence between 5 days and 1 year in jail.
- Third conviction – Up to $6,300 in fines and between 60 days and 3 years of imprisonment.
- Fourth conviction - Felony DUI with between 1 and 5 years in prison.
Convictions also come with a suspension of your driver's license and possible installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. In addition, prison sentences can be increased with certain aggravating factors, such as speeding or a blood alcohol content over 0.16%.
Beyond jail time and fines, a DUI on your record can lead to mandatory alcohol education programs, community service, and increased insurance premiums that last for years. You may also face consequences at work, especially if you hold a position that requires driving or a clean criminal record. For many people in Columbia and the surrounding communities, losing the ability to drive even for a short period can disrupt childcare, school, and medical appointments, which is why it is so important to take a proactive approach to your defense.
In South Carolina, there are also separate administrative actions through the Department of Motor Vehicles that can affect your license even before your criminal case is resolved. If your license was taken at the time of your arrest, you may have a limited period to request a hearing to challenge that suspension. We can walk you through how the court case and the DMV process interact, help you pursue temporary driving privileges when available, and work to reduce the long-term impact on your driving record and everyday life.
With over two decades of experience working with family law, personal injury and criminal defense cases throughout South Carolina, we at Masella Law Firm, P.A. are prepared to guide you through the legal process. Click below to be taken to our secure payment page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I Lose My Driver's License After A DUI Arrest?
A DUI arrest in South Carolina can trigger both a criminal case and a separate license suspension process through the Department of Motor Vehicles. Depending on whether you refused a breath test or registered over the legal limit, your license can be taken at the roadside and a temporary paper license issued. You may have a limited time to request an administrative hearing to challenge this suspension, and you may also be eligible in some circumstances for a temporary or restricted license that lets you drive to work or school while your case is pending.
Do I Have To Appear In Court For My DUI Charge?
Most DUI cases require at least one court appearance, often in the municipal or magistrate court that serves the area where you were stopped, such as the City of Columbia Municipal Court or a Richland County court. Your paperwork will list a specific date and time, and failing to appear can result in additional charges or a warrant being issued. In some situations, an attorney can appear on your behalf for certain hearings or work with the court to reschedule dates, but you should not assume you can miss court without first receiving clear guidance about your obligations.
How Long Does A DUI Case Usually Take To Resolve?
The amount of time it takes for a DUI case to conclude can vary widely based on the facts of the case, the court’s schedule, and whether the matter is resolved through negotiation or goes to trial. Some cases are resolved in a few months, especially if the issues are straightforward and the court’s docket is light. Others can take longer if there are complex evidentiary questions, if additional investigation is needed, or if multiple court dates are required to reach a fair outcome. Throughout the process, you should receive updated court dates and have opportunities to discuss your options as new information becomes available.
