What Are the Penalties for Felony DUI?
What is a Felony DUI in SC?
Unlike misdemeanor DUI's, a felony DUI is one that is related to the great bodily injury or death of another person. Under South Carolina law, "great bodily injury" is defined as a physical injury that creates a substantial risk of death. Victims who suffered serious or permanent disfigurement or impairment of bodily functions or organs can lead to felony DUI prosecutions. These injuries can occur to a passenger in the same car, another driver or passenger, or even a pedestrian. Additionally, you could be charged with a felony DUI for a third offense in 10 years or when a child passenger younger than 16 years of age sustains a bodily injury in a car accident involving an intoxicated motorist.
If you are facing felony DUI charges, we urge you to get in touch with a DUI lawyer in Greenville, SC at Hisker Law Firm, PC. We have defended over 1,000 cases, including some of the most challenging felony DUI cases. Our strategies are proven and effective. We work hard to make sure you do not suffer the maximum penalties.
Let's discuss your case in a confidential consultation. Call our Duncan felony DUI lawyer at (864) 610-1277 today to begin!
Types of Cases We Handle
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What Are the Penalties for Felony DUI?
Felony DUIs are serious charges, and can impose mandatory sentences that may not be suspended. Because of the strictness of the law with regard to this matter, it is essential to have an experienced attorney fighting for you in court.
Felony DUIs resulting in great bodily injury carry the following punishment:
- A minimum imprisonment sentence of no less than 30 days and no more than 20 years
- Suspension of the driver's license for the duration of imprisonment plus 3 years
- A minimum fine of no less than $5,100 and no more than $10,100
Felony DUIs resulting in death carry the following punishment:
- A minimum imprisonment sentence of no less than one year and no more than 25 years
- Suspension of the driver's license for the duration of imprisonment plus 3 years
- A minimum fine of no less than $10,100 and no more than $25,100
Felony DUIs from a third offense within a 10-year period carry the following punishment:
- A minimum imprisonment sentence of no less than 60 days and no more than 3 years, no less than 90 days and no more than 4 years (if the driver had a BAC between .10% and less than .16 percent), or no less than 6 months and no more than 5 years (if BAC is at least .16 percent).
- Suspension of the driver's license for 3 years
- A minimum fine of no less than $3,800 and no more than $6,300, no less than $5,000 and no more than $7,500 (if the driver had a BAC between .10% and less than .16 percent), or no less than $7,500 and no more than $10,000.
Felony DUIs involving a minor passenger carry the following punishment:
- A minimum imprisonment sentence of no less than 30 days and no more than 15 years (if the child suffers great bodily injury), no less than 1 year and no more than 25 years (if the child dies)
- Suspension of the driver's license for at least 60 days or possible license revocation
- A minimum fine of $2,500
Experienced Felony DUI Lawyer
Fighting a felony DUI charge is a challenging task and it is never advisable to defend yourself in court. The consequences of a conviction are simply too great to take this risk. From your bond hearing to your court appearances, our experienced legal team will ensure that we give you a proper and well-prepared defense every step of the way. Our veteran trial attorney knows his way around a courtroom and is well-respected by local prosecutors and judges. We can use our legal talent and resources to your advantage.
Previous Felony DUI Cases
*These results are provided to show the types of cases that Steve Hisker has handled in the past. Nothing provided should create an expectation that Steve Hisker can achieve similar results in any case.
40 days in Jail - 7/16/2014
Charge: Felony DUI with Great Bodily Injury (passenger was paralyzed).
Maximum Penalty- Defendant faced up to 20 years in prison.
History- Defendant involved in a single car accident.
Defendant had a blood alcohol level of 0.16 (more than twice the legal limit).
Result: 40 days weekend jail, 1 year house arrest and probation to follow.
Call our office at (864) 610-1277 for more information and a case evaluation! Reach us 24/7 whenever you need help. Our Duncan felony DUI attorney serves clients throughout Greenville and the surrounding regions.
Our Settlements & Verdicts
Our top priority is to devise customized legal strategies that are tailored to the unique legal needs of our clients, no matter how simple or complicated their situations, might be.
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Reduced 2nd Degree Harassment
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Reduced 2nd Offense Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana
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Expunged 30 Year Old Conviction
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Dismissed Accessory A/F Murder
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Dismissed Accessory A/F Murder, Armed Robbery, Possession with Intent to Distribute, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
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Reduced Accessory to Commit Burglary
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"I wish more people exhibited the humanity you did"Dear Mr. Hisker, I hope this message reaches you in good health. I am not looking for legal services but wanted to reach out to thank you for what you did for that young gentleman, Brandon, as documented on the A&E show. This is my first time ever doing this but I feel you deserve this message. I wish more people exhibited the humanity you did in your defense of this “gentle giant”. Unfortunately, everyday we witness people acting and reacting to others without empathy and understanding.- Fida K.
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Dear attorney Hisker, I just watched the A&E show, and I am very thankful for good attorneys like yourself. Our system is good only when there is equality in defense, and you provided a great one. Before hearing the jury’s verdict, I almost assumed they’d say “he admitted he punched him, he’s hurt, therefore he is guilty”. I cheered when he was found not guilty and it gave me a moment of pride in our system. I am also so thankful Brandon didn’t fall into the plea trap where innocent individuals plea to lower charges due to the Pressure and overwhelming understanding that our system is unpredictable. I dream of a world where there are great defense attorneys like you for all defendants, and Where the system isn’t biased for convictions, but bias to obtain justice for all the humans that enter the system. As a Christian, I know just saving one is a blessing—so thanks for saving at least one- With great respect and thanks,
Disclaimer: This is a testimonial or endorsement that does not come from a client of Hisker Law Firm. No payment was made in exchange for this endorsement. Any result the Hisker Law Firm may achieve on behalf of one client in one matter does not necessarily indicate similar results can be obtained for other clients.
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"Devotes his full attention to every case to get the best possible outcomes. "Steve is an excellent criminal attorney. I have witnessed him practicing law for sufficient years to justify my assessment of his abilities and talents. He brings a keen understanding of the law and devotes his full attention to every case to get the best possible outcomes. He is outstanding.- Michael D. M.
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"Gave me a sense of comfort that made the entire process much more smooth."I could not ask for a better experience than with Steve and his team at Hisker Law Firm. They were accommodating as well as driven to get the best results for my situation. Steve handled every detail of my case with minimal worry to myself which allowed me to carry on with my daily routine with out stress. They answered all of my questions and gave me a sense of comfort that made the entire process much more smooth. I have and would recommend him to any one of my friends and family. Thank you to Steve and everyone at Hisker Law Firm!- Walt B.
