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If you were arrested for DUI in Florence or anywhere in Florence County, a Florence DUI lawyer can protect your license and challenge the evidence against you. Attorney John S. Keffer has defended DUI charges in South Carolina since 1999. Consultations are held at our office at 10 Law Range in Sumter, and we represent clients in Florence County courts.
A DUI case in South Carolina moves on two tracks at once: the criminal charge in court and the administrative suspension of your driver’s license. The first deadline comes fast. You have 30 days from the notice of suspension to request a hearing to fight the suspension.
DUI Arrests in Florence County
Florence sits where I-95 meets I-20, and US-52 and US-76 carry heavy traffic through the county. DUI stops in Florence County are made by the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florence Police Department, among other agencies. Many people charged on the interstates live outside the county, which makes it harder to keep up with court dates and deadlines from a distance. We handle the deadlines and court appearances for you.
Where Florence DUI cases are heard
Many first-offense DUI charges are heard in magistrate or municipal court, including the City of Florence Municipal Court for arrests inside city limits. More serious charges, such as repeat offenses and felony DUI, go to the Court of General Sessions in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit. The administrative license hearing is separate and is handled by the South Carolina Office of Motor Vehicle Hearings.
How We Defend a Florence DUI Charge
South Carolina law sets strict rules for how a DUI stop and breath test must be handled. Attorney Keffer reviews every step of the case to find weaknesses in the State’s evidence.
- The reason for the stop. Officers need a lawful basis to pull you over. If the stop was not justified, evidence from it may be challenged.
- The video recording. South Carolina requires video recording of the incident site and the breath test site. Missing or incomplete video can affect the case.
- Field sobriety tests. These tests must be explained and administered correctly. Road conditions, footwear, and medical issues can affect results.
- The breath test. We review the testing procedure, the operator’s certification, and the machine records.
What Is at Stake
A DUI conviction in South Carolina can bring fines, jail time, license suspension, required alcohol and drug classes, and an ignition interlock device for some offenses. A DUI conviction cannot be expunged in South Carolina, so it stays on your record. Early, careful defense gives you the best chance of a reduced charge or dismissal.
Florence DUI Lawyer FAQ
How long do I have to request a license hearing after a DUI arrest in Florence?
You have 30 days from the notice of suspension to request an administrative hearing. If you miss the deadline, the suspension generally takes effect without a hearing. The hearing is separate from your criminal case in Florence County court.
I live outside Florence County. Do I have to come back for court?
Depending on the court and the stage of the case, your attorney may be able to handle some appearances for you. Attorney Keffer explains what your case requires at the free consultation so you can plan ahead.
Can I get a restricted license after a DUI arrest?
In some cases, options such as a temporary alcohol license, a route-restricted license, or enrollment in the ignition interlock program may let you keep driving. Eligibility depends on the charge, your record, and whether you refused testing.
Can a Sumter attorney handle my Florence County DUI?
Yes. Attorneys licensed in South Carolina can represent clients in any county. Attorney Keffer represents clients charged with DUI in Florence County courts.
See our main DUI defense page, learn more about our Florence, SC legal services, or schedule a free consultation.
The DUI statutes that apply to every Florence DUI case are in Title 56, Chapter 5 of the South Carolina Code.
Florence DUI FAQs
Where is a Florence DUI case heard?
A first-offense Florence DUI case is usually heard in magistrate or municipal court in Florence County. More serious charges go to General Sessions in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit.
Do I need a local office to handle a Florence DUI?
No. Attorney Keffer represents Florence DUI clients from his Sumter office and appears in Florence County courts.
What is the first step after a Florence DUI arrest?
Request the administrative hearing within 30 days. That step protects your license while the Florence DUI charge is pending.