Williamsburg County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Williamsburg County, SC: Complete Guide

Being arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Williamsburg County can be a disorienting experience. With a population of approximately 29,800 spread across a largely rural landscape, accessing immediate resources and navigating the legal process presents unique challenges. This guide provides a step-by-step overview of what to expect following a DUI arrest in Williamsburg County, offering practical information to help you understand your rights and options. In 2024, there were approximately 120 DUI arrests in Williamsburg County. This guide will help you navigate the complex legal process that follows.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

After a DUI arrest in Williamsburg County, the following events typically occur within the first 24 hours:

1. Arrest and Field Sobriety Tests: You will be pulled over by law enforcement, most likely by the South Carolina Highway Patrol, and asked to perform field sobriety tests.
2. Breathalyzer or Blood Test: You'll be asked to submit to a breathalyzer test to measure your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). Refusal to submit to a BAC test can lead to an automatic license suspension.
3. Booking: You will be transported to the Williamsburg County Detention Center located at 200 S Jackson Street, Kingstree, SC 29556. The booking process includes fingerprinting, photographing, and recording your personal information.
4. Phone Calls: After booking, you will be allowed to make a limited number of phone calls. It is crucial to contact a loved one or a licensed bail bondsman as soon as possible.
5. Bond Hearing: South Carolina law requires a bond hearing within 24 hours of your arrest. In Williamsburg County, bond court is held strictly at 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM daily. This inflexible schedule can cause delays, especially if you are arrested late in the day.
6. Bail: For a first-offense DUI, the standard bail is often capped at the maximum fine for the offense, typically between $400 and $1,000, depending on your BAC. You can post bail in cash directly with the clerk of court or use a licensed bail bondsman.

Critical Deadlines

Following a DUI arrest, several critical deadlines must be met:

• ALR Hearing Request: You have only 30 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing with the South Carolina DMV to contest your license suspension.
• Court Appearance Date: Your court appearance date will be provided on your citation. Missing this date can result in additional penalties.
• ADSAP Enrollment: If convicted of DUI, you will be required to enroll in and complete the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program (ADSAP) to regain your driving privileges.

DUI Enforcement in Williamsburg County

The South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP) actively patrols Williamsburg County. While specific DUI checkpoint locations are not publicly available, SCHP Troop 5, which encompasses Williamsburg, Florence, and Georgetown counties, conducts regular patrols. The Kingstree Police Department also actively enforces DUI laws within the town limits. Contact the Kingstree Police Department at 843-355-7484 or the Williamsburg County Sheriff's Office at 843-355-6381.

Local Resources

• Williamsburg County Magistrate Court: 209 Short Street, Kingstree, SC 29556, Phone: 843-355-9565, Williamsburg County Magistrate
• Williamsburg County Detention Center: 200 S Jackson Street, Kingstree, SC 29556, Phone: 843-355-9696, Williamsburg County Detention Center
• Kingstree DMV: 785 Eastland Avenue, Kingstree, SC 29556, Phone: 843-354-9217
• Williamsburg County Behavioral Health (ADSAP Provider): 115 Short Street, Kingstree, SC 29556, Phone: 843-355-9113, Williamsburg County Behavioral Health
• Clerk of Court / Family Court: Clerk of Court / Family Court

What Makes Williamsburg County Different

Williamsburg County presents unique challenges due to its rural setting and limited resources. Bond court is held strictly at 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM daily, creating potential delays depending on the time of your arrest. The Williamsburg County Magistrate Court enforces a strict ban on cell phones and electronics and cuts off financial transactions at exactly 4:00 PM. Upon conviction, ADSAP is administered by Williamsburg County Behavioral Health, with locations in Kingstree (115 Short Street) and Hemingway (2811 S. State Hwy 41-51). Retrieval of your vehicle may involve dealing with Chris's Auto Towing. The tow fee can be as high as $271.00/hour if special operations or auxiliary equipment is required.

If you have been arrested for DUI in Williamsburg County, your next step is to contact a licensed bail bondsman or a qualified attorney to discuss your case.