DUI FAQs with Myrtle Beach DUI Defense Attorneys Regina B. Ward

Frequently Asked Questions

DUI

I cannot afford an attorney, what happens if I just plead guilty to the DUI or am convicted?

Depending on what number of DUI offense you are charged with you face going to county jail or state prison, paying hefty fines, license suspension or revocation, SR-22 insurance requirements, ADSAP classes, and ignition interlock device. You also will have a permanent criminal record that can never be expunged. You will have a DUI on your driving record for ten (10) years. You may lose your job depending on what type of job you have.

Do NOT plead guilty without first getting a FREE DUI EVALUATION with Attorney Regina Ward. Attorney Ward understands how financially devastating a DUI can be on you and therefore, she also offers some payment plans so that having an attorney may be worked into your budget.

Can I really get out of a DUI conviction?

Police Officers are trained to detect drunk drivers. However, police officers are also human and they make mistakes. If the officer made a mistake, the evidence cannot be used against you. If the prosecutor does not have the evidence to use against you, then your case will be dismissed. With the assistance of Myrtle Beach DUI Attorney Regina Ward it is possible to have your DUI arrest dismissed or reduced. Just because you blew a .08% or higher does NOT mean you will be found guilty. There are many areas of the arrest that can be challenged especially if the police did not precisely follow the law. However, the laws can be complicated and confusing so it is important that you at least have your DUI arrest evaluated. Attorney Regina Ward offers FREE DUI EVALUATIONS. She will review whether probable cause existed to stop your car. She will determine whether the rules for the roadside Field Sobriety Test were followed by the officer. She will investigate whether the breathalyzer machine was properly maintained. Call her today to find out if she can help you.

How can I get my driver’s license back if they were suspended for DUI arrest?

If you refused to take the breathalyzer test then your license is automatically suspended for six (6) months. If you blew .15% or higher then your license is automatically suspended for 30 or more days. Myrtle Beach DUI Attorney Regina Ward can help you get back on the road very quickly by filing an administrative appeal of your suspension. As soon as the appeal is requested, Regina Ward can request an unrestricted driver’s license for you on a temporary basis. There is a deadline of 30 days from your date of arrest in which she can do this. Therefore, it is critically important that you meet with her as soon as possible. Click here for more information on how to get your license back.

I did not take the breathalyzer, when can I get my license back?

If you refused to take the breathalyzer test then your license is automatically suspended for six (6) months for a first offense and up to fifteen (15) months for subsequent offenses. Myrtle Beach DUI Attorney Regina Ward can help you get back on the road very quickly by filing an administrative appeal of your suspension. As soon as the appeal is requested, Regina Ward can request an unrestricted driver’s license for you on a temporary basis. There is a deadline of 30 days from your date of arrest in which she can do this. Therefore, it is critically important that you meet with her as soon as possible.

I am a licensed driver in another state but got a DUI in South Carolina. Is my license suspended?

The State of South Carolina only has the authority to suspend your right to drive within South Carolina. However, it is likely your licensing state is a member of the “Driver License Compact” and South Carolina will report a conviction to your licensing state.

Will I get sentenced to jail or prison if I am convicted of a DUI?

You can be sentenced from 48-hours in county jail and up to 25 years in state prison depending on the levels of alcohol in your system, the number of offense, and whether you injured another person. Click here for information regarding the penalties for DUI convictions.

What does BAC mean?

BAC is an acronym for “Blood Alcohol Content.” This is the measurement of how much alcohol is in a person’s blood stream. If you have .08% BAC or higher, then you can be arrested for driving under the influence. The measurement is taken by a blood sample or by analyzing the exhaled breath of a person with a breathalyzer machine.

Just because you registered at .08% or higher does not mean you will be found guilty of DUI. You may have defenses available to you. Call Attorney Regina Ward for a FREE DUI EVALUATION.

What does “Implied Consent” mean?

This refers to the “Implied Consent Statutes” which is the law that states a “person who drives a motor vehicle in this State is considered to have given consent to chemical tests of his breath, blood, or urine for the purpose of determining the presence of alcohol or drugs…if arrested…while driving…under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of alcohol and drugs.” In other words, any person operating a vehicle is considered to have agreed to submit to testing of his breath, blood or urine if alleged to have committed a crime while under the influence. A person can refuse to take these tests but face immediate suspension of their license to drive for failing to comply. This is a civil penalty separate from any criminal charge. Click here for more information about getting your license back.

What is ADSAP?

ADSAP is an acronym for the South Carolina Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program. It is a substance abuse program that works with people to address their problem areas which contributed to the person getting a DUI. The goal of the program is to reduce the risk of committing another DUI by education and/or treatment. The total costs range from $500 – $2,500. Enrollment and completion of ADSAP is a requirement to getting a provisional license if you do not contest the suspension or if you are convicted of DUI.

What is SR-22 insurance?

SR-22 is the name of the form or document used to provide proof that you have purchased the minimum required coverage of automobile liability insurance. SR-22 (proof of insurance) is required for a minimum of three (3) years if you are convicted of a DUI. It is also required to get a provisional driver’s license. The form is submitted to the South Carolina Secretary of State’s Office as proof that you are insured. If you allow the policy to lapse or cancel it your carrier will notify the Secretary of State.

How can I find out if my rights were violated?

You can call and make an appointment to see Myrtle Beach DUI Attorney Regina Ward for a FREE DUI EVALUATION to find out if your rights were violated. You will also find out if there is a viable defense to your DUI arrest and get all of your questions answered. You can also click here and submit your information online for an evaluation.

Remember just because you were arrested for a DUI, and even if you blew above the legal limit, does NOT mean you will be found guilty of a DUI.

Call Myrtle Beach Attorney Regina Ward today at 843-488-9273 for your FREE DUI EVALUATION.

Our Clients have
something to say:
|

A separation and divorce are already complicated and stressful enough then add the fact you need to find a great attorney, the stress level rises even higher. At a time when I felt lost and uncertain of what I should do and the legal choices available to me, I found Regina. She took the time to discuss my situation and then laid out the options available to me, the good and the bad. I left feeling not alone and for the first time in a long time, in control of my life and future. Regina was there for me and counseled me through the whole process. She took the confusion and the feeling of helplessness away. Regina and her staff were there for me and I could never thank them enough. I have continued to call on Regina for legal advice and when anyone I know who needs an attorney I recommend her.

S.F. | Divorce & Separation Client

Unfortunately, everyone in my family has had to use the services of the Ward Law Firm. Ms. Ward has represented us in criminal matters, family court matters and even motor vehicle issues. She is always very straight forward about what we can expect and has successfully represented us every time. She always keeps our best interest as her top priority. I am not in the habit of recommending businesses unless I am more than satisfied with the services and I can say with confidence that Regina Ward will provide professional, quality and efficient service.

M.T. | Criminal Defense Client

Regina was more than helpful and a pleasure to work with. She is knowledgeable, highly skilled and genuinely concerned for her clients and their families. I had the most confidence that my son’s needs were being met. She is also someone who makes you feel at ease while going through a stressful time. I would highly recommend working with her if you want to get results.

E.P. | Criminal Defense Client

Ms. Ward is one of the most persuasive and passionate criminal defense attorneys I have dealt with in my career.

Sol. C.S. | Criminal Defense Client

I met Regina Ward a few years ago after having the unfortunate experience of getting involved in a real estate deal with a dishonest realtor and builder in Horry County. Regina Ward and I clicked after our initial consult and I knew right away that with her on my side justice would prevail. She never gave up; left no stone unturned and we went all the way to trial where her expertise forced a settlement. Don’t let the pretty face and smile fool you she turns it on when it comes to the research and court. She was awesome and nothing rattled her. My husband and I always joked between us that she was our little pit bull! I would highly recommend her.

K.F.

Regina Ward represented me in a probate matter and I enjoyed working with her. It was a tough time for me but she truly made it smoother and easier than it would have been without her help.

Dr. R.Z.

Having Regina Ward as my attorney I was confident my case would be heard with legal clarity and I would prevail. Regina took my case when others would not. She devoted numerous weekend hours to be prepared for a court hearing scheduled within 5 days. I could not have been more confident having such a caring, smart and strong attorney representing me. I will always be grateful.

K.E. | Criminal Defense Client

I have personally known Regina Ward for almost 30 years. She has successfully handled legal issues for me regarding contract law, insurance and securities matters, as well as my daughter’s divorce case. She is one of the most talented professionals that I’ve ever worked with, but most important she gets the job done for her clients. With Regina Ward, you pay for results and not promises!

L.F. | Divorce & Separation Client

Regina Ward represented me in a criminal matter and displayed much care and concern for my case and constantly followed up with me as we moved forward. The outcome was in my favor and I could not have been more pleased with how she represented me. I have had many attorneys in my line of work and I would have to say that not only did Regina have much care and concern, she displayed the most class of all combined.

M.L. | Criminal Defense Client

Regina represented me in my divorce. She was very professional, and covered every aspect of my case. I needed a forensic accountant which she suggested. All was done in a timely manner. I was very happy with my results and her performance. I have and do highly recommend her.

D.H. | Divorce & Separation Client

I have to say Regina is amazing. She knows her stuff! She is not only completely thorough and extremely competent; she is there for her clients in every aspect. I would not use any other attorney for my legal needs other than Regina Ward!

H.S.

Regina and her staff were a godsend for me during my divorce! They were professional, knowledgeable and extremely patient, as they guided me through the most difficult process of my life. I recommend Ward Law Firm to every person who mentions a need for a family attorney.

R.D. | Divorce & Separation Client

Regina and her staff made a very difficult time in my life easier. She was there for me throughout my separation and divorce, any question or concern I had, no matter how small, she was there with an answer. I trusted her completely and I felt very confident about my case knowing that I had Regina and her wonderful staff on my side to represent me.

K.F.

Regina Ward assisted me in the preparation and execution of a Settlement Agreement that allowed my ex-husband and me to move forward toward the resolution of our marriage without subjecting our daughter to additional undue hardship in an already difficult time. Regina was able to answer questions in a manner I could understand, and brought other matters to my attention that I had not considered for inclusion in our Agreement. Once the statutory time passed, Regina further assisted me in finalizing the divorce. I cannot say enough about the knowledge and professionalism of Ms. Ward and her staff.

L.C. | Divorce & Separation Client
Disclaimer:
Results are to demonstrate customer service satisfaction and are not a guarantee of results in your particular case. Every case is fact-specific and every case is different. It is impossible to predict the outcome of your case without a one-on-one consultation and inquiry of the specific facts surrounding your personal legal matter.

Regina Ward
is a member of: