Is a DUI a criminal or civil charge?

In South Carolina, a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) offense is considered a criminal charge. South Carolina Code of Laws deems a DUI offense as a criminal misdemeanor, which is a less severe crime than a felony. Under the criminal DUI law in South Carolina, anyone who drives or is in actual physical control of a motor vehicle while being under the influence of drugs or alcohol can face charges. Driving under the influence offenses can be deemed either as a first offense, or as a subsequent or aggravated offense. A DUI first offense is a serious criminal charge and can lead to jail time, fines, and a loss of driving privileges. A subsequent or aggravated offense can lead to harsher punishments as the severity increases. In South Carolina, any person convicted of a DUI offense must submit to an evaluation of their alcohol and drug abuse problem, complete any mandated treatment programs, and may also be subject to other court-mandated requirements. Even after completion of the criminal proceedings, a person convicted of a DUI offense may still face civil lawsuits from those affected by any injury or property damage resulting from the offense. In summary, a DUI offense is a criminal charge in South Carolina and carries serious penalties including jail time, fines, and loss of driving privileges. Even after the criminal proceedings, civil lawsuits may still ensue in order to obtain financial compensation for any injury or property damage stemming from the DUI offense.

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Is a DUI a criminal or civil charge?

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