DUI/DWI

Myrtle Beach DUI Lawyer

DUAC Defense Attorney in Myrtle Beach & Horry County

The State of South Carolina does not take driving under the influence (DUI) charges lightly. In fact, if you are charged with a DUI, you can count on fierce prosecution and, if convicted, serious penalties that will directly impact your rights and driving privileges. The same is true if you are convicted of driving with unlawful alcohol concentration (DUAC).

Having a trusted and experienced Myrtle Beach DUI and DUAC attorney on your side can make an important difference in your case as you fight to defend your rights and reputation. At Joye, Nappier, Risher, & Hardin LLC, we believe in the power of good representation to change people’s lives for the better, so we always dedicate our full resources and experience to each of our clients’ cases. As a small-town firm with a big firm personality, we use a deliberate approach to casework that combines genuine compassion with legal authority. We truly care about our clients, and it shows in everything from our initial phone calls to our thorough case preparation.


Discuss your options with one of our DUI lawyers by calling (843) 357-6454 now. Proudly serving Myrtle Beach, Georgetown County, and Horry County!


Hear From Our Happy Clients

At Joye, Nappier, Risher, & Hardin LLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "Goes Above and Beyond"

    I have worked with many law offices and attorneys. I really appreciate Wendy Hardin she is easy to work with and pleasant. ...

    Edge of the Beach Realty
    "The Kind of Attorney You Want In Your Corner"

    I would highly recommend Mark Nappier to anyone needing legal assistance. I found that Mark is forthright and honest and easy ...

    Theresa P.
    "Very Efficient and Professional"

    Mark Nappier was very efficient and professional; taking time to explain the laws involved so I understood the situation and ...

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    "Very Easy Process"

    What a great bunch of people! I had a home coming up for foreclosure and had a VERY tight timeline of two weeks I was ...

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Understanding the BAC Limit for DWI in South Carolina

South Carolina uses three BAC levels in relation to DUI and DUAC laws:

  • 0.08%: Any driver is considered legally intoxicated with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of 0.08% or higher.
  • 0.04%: Commercial drivers (such as truck drivers and construction vehicle operators) are considered legally intoxicated with a BAC level of 0.04% or higher.
  • 0.02%: Under age drivers (people younger than 21) are considered legally intoxicated with a BAC level of 0.02% or higher.

Key DUI Laws You Need to Know in South Carolina

If you are pulled over while operating a motor vehicle and the law enforcement officer believes your driving has been impaired by drugs or alcohol, you can be arrested for and eventually charged with a DUI. Importantly, DUI charges in South Carolina do not necessarily need to factor your reported BAC level into the charges and prosecution. Instead, the argument is that you were unsafe to drive due to alcohol or drug impairment, regardless of BAC level. Although, higher BAC levels at the time of arrest can change the severity of DUI charges.

For example, a man has one beer at his favorite bar in Myrtle Beach. While driving home, he struggles to keep his car centered in his lane. A highway patrol officer sees the unusual driving behavior, pulls him over, and uses a breathalyzer to get his BAC level, which is recorded at 0.06%. Even though 0.06% is under the typical BAC limit for adult drivers in South Carolina, the man can still be arrested for a DUI because “the presence of alcohol” in any amount appears to have impaired his driving ability.

Understanding DUAC Laws in South Carolina

Driving with unlawful alcohol concentration (DUAC) laws in South Carolina are more concerned with a driver’s BAC level than DUI laws. Specifically, anyone who operates a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or greater can be charged with DUAC. Even if a driver seems to be completely in control of their vehicle and unimpaired by the alcohol they have consumed, they can be charged with DUAC as long as their BAC meets or exceeds 0.08%.

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We're Here To Help Our Attorneys Will Always Act in Your Best Interest

Whether you have questions or you’re ready to get started, our legal team is ready to help. Complete our form below or call us at (843) 357-6454.

Talk to Our DUI/DUAC Defense Team Today

Take your DUI or DUAC arrest seriously because the state is! Before the prosecution slams you with a hard-fought argument to convict you, prepare a strong defense against the charges with Joye, Nappier, Risher, & Hardin LLC and our DUI defense attorneys of Myrtle Beach. We believe that a single mistake shouldn’t ruin your entire life, and that everyone deserves the opportunity to explain their side of the story after an arrest. Get us on your side, so we can start standing up for your rights and driving privileges today.


Contact us online or dial (843) 357-6454 to get your defense moving now.


What Sets Us Apart

  • Personal & Professional
    Our goal in every case is to establish a relationship with our clients. We believe this is the best foundation for a successful case.
  • Extensive Experience
    The legal team at Joye, Nappier, Risher, & Hardin LLC has a wide-range of legal experience in a variety of cases and situations.
  • Hometown Attorneys
    Our firm has been involved in the local community for years and we prioritize working alongside our neighbors to build a stronger community.

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