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We understand that the legal system is not set up in favor of defendants or plaintiffs. That is why we have shaped our entire practice to be client-centered and compassionate. Our lawyers take special care to explain the court process and ensure that clients feel heard and understood.
7 Costly Mistakes to Avoid If You’ve Been Arrested in South Carolina
Learn what you should and shouldn't be doing to help your criminal defense case in South Carolina. Submit your information below to download our free PDF Guide.
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Myrtle Beach DUI Attorneys
A DUI arrest can put your license, record, work, and family responsibilities under immediate pressure. A charge is not a conviction. The facts of the stop, the officer’s observations, video, testing procedures, and the State’s handling of evidence all matter. McCutchen Vaught Geddie & Hucks, P.A. helps people understand the criminal case and the separate license issues that can follow an arrest.
DUI and DWI Charges We Defend
South Carolina law generally uses the term driving under the influence, or DUI. People often search for DWI, drunk driving, or impaired driving; those terms usually describe the same practical concern: an accusation that alcohol, drugs, or a combination materially and appreciably impaired a person’s ability to drive. We review first and subsequent allegations, alcohol- and drug-related cases, under-21 matters, commercial-driver concerns, test refusals, and cases involving a collision or alleged injury.
The precise charge and potential consequences depend on the statute alleged, prior offenses, test results, and whether the State claims aggravating circumstances. The current DUI statute is S.C. Code § 56-5-2930. We compare the charging documents with the evidence instead of assuming the officer’s first description tells the whole story.
What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Myrtle Beach
After an arrest, a person may face a bond hearing, a court date, requests for discovery, and deadlines connected to driving privileges. The criminal case and an administrative license suspension are related but not identical. Missing a deadline can limit available options, so it is important to preserve paperwork from the arrest and seek advice promptly.
Useful records may include the ticket, bond paperwork, property receipt, breath-test printout, notice of suspension, medical records, photographs, ride or payment receipts, and the names of witnesses. Write down what happened while the details are fresh, including where the stop occurred, what instructions were given, and whether cameras were present. Do not post about the incident on social media.
License Suspension and Implied Consent
South Carolina’s implied-consent law addresses breath, blood, or urine testing after certain DUI arrests. A refusal or a qualifying alcohol concentration can trigger an administrative suspension apart from the criminal prosecution. The governing provisions include S.C. Code §§ 56-5-2950 and 56-5-2951. The available hearing, temporary-license, or ignition-interlock options depend on the facts and current law.
Because license deadlines may run quickly, keep every document the officer or detention facility provided. An attorney can review whether required advisements were given, whether the test was requested and administered lawfully, and what steps may be available to address the suspension.
Evidence We Challenge
A defense review begins with the reason for the traffic stop and continues through the arrest and testing process. Evidence may include dashboard and body-camera video, dispatch records, witness accounts, field-sobriety-test instructions, the testing-room video, machine records, maintenance and calibration materials, blood or urine chain-of-custody records, and medical information that may explain observed symptoms.
Potential issues can include whether the officer had a lawful basis for the stop, whether video supports the written report, whether standardized tests were demonstrated and scored consistently, whether required observation periods and testing procedures were followed, and whether a sample was collected, stored, and analyzed reliably. A possible issue is not an automatic dismissal; it must be evaluated against the full record and applicable law.
What To Do Now
Keep your paperwork together, record your recollection, preserve relevant messages and receipts, and comply with bond and court conditions. Avoid driving unless you are legally authorized. Do not miss a court or administrative deadline, and do not make decisions about a plea before you understand the evidence and collateral consequences.
Protect your license and your future. Request a confidential DUI defense consultation.
Law checked as of September 21, 2026.
DUI Videos
Can I refuse a breathalyzer or chemical test if suspected of DUI?
Do I need a lawyer to represent me for a DUI?
What are the penalties for a DUI conviction?
How does a DUI conviction affect someone’s ability to drive and keep their-license in South Carolina?
How does having a minor in the vehicle at the time of arrest affect a DUI charge-in South Carolina?
How does South Carolina define underage DUI, and what BAC level can trigger-charges for drivers under 21?
How does South Carolina treat DUI cases involving out-of-state drivers or-tourists-?
What advice would you give someone who just got a DUI and is scared about-their future in South Carolina?
What advice would you give to parents whose child has just been charged with-an underage DUI in South Carolina-?
What are the penalties for a second or third DUI in South Carolina, and how do-they escalate?
What happens during a DUI stop in South Carolina, and can you legally refuse a-field sobriety or breath test?
What happens if you’re involved in an accident while under the influence in South Carolina – Do injury or death charges apply automatically?
What is the ignition interlock requirement in South Carolina, and when does it-become mandatory?
What is the implied consent law in South Carolina, and what are the penalties for-refusing a chemical test?
What long-term consequences can an underage DUI conviction have on a young-person’s life — like college, jobs, or insurance?
Can you be charged with underage DUI for drugs, not just alcohol?
Does a BAC of .02 always lead to a DUI for someone under 21?
How can an underage driver avoid incriminating themselves?
How do penalties differ for underage DUIs compared to adult DUIs?
What are the immediate penalties for an underage DUI?
What defenses are available for underage DUI charges?
What should parents do if their teen is charged with DUI?
Mistakes to Avoid After a DUI Arrest in Myrtle Beach
Not Taking The Charges Seriously
Being arrested for DUI in Myrtle Beach is a serious matter that can lead to significant penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. One of the biggest mistakes people make is underestimating the severity of the charges. Treating a DUI like a minor offense or delaying action can result in missed opportunities to defend your case effectively.
Talking to Law Enforcement Without Legal Guidance
After a DUI arrest, you may feel pressured to explain your actions or provide information to law enforcement. Speaking without understanding your legal rights can be a critical error. Anything you say can be used against you in court, and even seemingly innocent statements can be misconstrued. It is essential to remain silent and consult with an experienced attorney before making any statements.
Pleading Guilty Without Understanding The Consequences
Some individuals believe that pleading guilty will make the situation go away faster. However, a guilty plea can carry long-term consequences, such as a criminal record, higher insurance rates, and challenges in obtaining employment. Before making any decisions, it is important to understand all the potential outcomes and explore possible defenses with an attorney.
Missing Deadlines or Failing to Appear in Court
A DUI arrest involves strict legal deadlines for court appearances, license hearings, and other procedures. Failing to meet these deadlines or skipping a court appearance can lead to additional penalties, including warrants for your arrest. Staying organized and having legal representation can help ensure you meet all requirements on time.
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Frequently Asked DUI Questions
These general answers explain common South Carolina DUI issues. The facts, charging documents, and current deadlines in an individual case should be reviewed directly.
South Carolina statutes generally use the term DUI, meaning driving under the influence. DWI is a common search term and is used in some other states, but it is not usually a separate South Carolina offense. Whether someone says DUI, DWI, drunk driving, or impaired driving, the important questions are the exact statute charged and whether the State can prove impairment or another statutory basis beyond a reasonable doubt.
You can decline a requested breath test, but refusal may carry immediate license consequences under South Carolina’s implied-consent law. A refusal can lead to an administrative suspension that is separate from the criminal DUI case, and deadlines may apply to challenging it. The circumstances of the request, the advisements given, and the arrest paperwork should be reviewed quickly before deciding what license or hearing options may be available.
A first DUI is not automatically dismissed, and no lawyer can promise that result. A charge may be challenged when the evidence presents legal or factual problems, such as an unsupported stop, inconsistent video and testimony, testing-procedure errors, or unreliable chemical-test evidence. The outcome depends on the complete record, the applicable law, negotiations, and court rulings. A careful review is needed before judging the strength of a defense.
A DUI arrest can affect driving privileges, but the answer depends on test results, refusal, prior history, and the status of the criminal case. An administrative suspension may begin before the criminal charge is resolved. Some people may have hearing, temporary-license, route-restriction, or ignition-interlock options under current law. Because deadlines can be short, preserve the suspension notice and obtain advice about both the license matter and the court case promptly.
Keep every ticket, bond form, test record, and suspension notice. Write down the sequence of events while it is fresh, identify possible witnesses or cameras, preserve receipts and messages, and avoid discussing the case online. Follow all bond conditions and do not drive unless legally permitted. Check court and license deadlines immediately, then speak with counsel before giving additional statements or making a decision about a plea.
Contact McCutchen Vaught Geddie & Hucks, P.A. If You Were Arrested For DUI in Myrtle Beach
If you or someone you know has been arrested for DUI in Myrtle Beach, it is important to act quickly and get the help of experienced Myrtle Beach DUI Attorneys. The legal process after a DUI arrest can be complicated and overwhelming. At McCutchen Vaught Geddie & Hucks, P.A., we understand the stress and uncertainty you may be feeling right now. Our team is here to help you navigate the legal system and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.
We offer free consultations, where we will listen to your side of the story and explain your options. We believe in being transparent and making sure you understand the next steps in the process. You don’t have to go through this alone. Our team of Myrtle Beach DUI Attorneys will be with you every step of the way, ensuring your rights are protected and working hard to fight for the best result.
The time to act is now. Reach out to McCutchen Vaught Geddie & Hucks, P.A. today for your free consultation. We are committed to helping you through this difficult time and will put in the effort to get the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us and take the first step toward resolving your DUI charges in Myrtle Beach.
I have used this law firm for years. Not only are they professional but very personal and compassionate. Everyone there has been such a blessing in times when I needed it the most. Gene Vaught has been my attorney for the past 24 years and has always gone above and beyond in any and every way. So thanks y’all and keep up the great work.