A DUI conviction in South Carolina carries significant legal consequences. These can include fines, license suspension, probation, and even jail time. But can you join the military with a DUI?
Beyond the immediate penalties, a DUI also leaves a lasting mark on your record, something military recruiters will see and consider when reviewing your application. While a DUI won’t automatically disqualify you, it can certainly make the enlistment process more challenging and require you to jump through additional hoops.
At Savage, Royall & Sheheen, LLP, our Camden DUI lawyers believe that one mistake shouldn’t define your entire future. We understand the unique challenges that come with a military DUI, and we are here to help you understand your options.
Understanding How a DUI Affects Military Eligibility
While a single DUI conviction in South Carolina may not automatically disqualify you from serving, it will almost certainly require you to seek a moral character waiver. A moral character waiver is essentially a formal request for an exception based on the circumstances of your case.
The military’s decision to grant a waiver is not guaranteed and is based on:
- The specifics of your case
- The amount of time that has passed since the offense
- The age at the time of the offense
- Whether you have any additional criminal or traffic violations
- Your demonstrated efforts to rehabilitate and show a change in character
A well-prepared waiver application, often with the assistance of an experienced South Carolina DUI lawyer, can improve your chances of successfully enlisting.
The Impact of a South Carolina DUI on Enlistment
The impact of a South Carolina DUI on your enlistment will depend heavily on the specific circumstances of your case.
One major roadblock is probation. If you’re still on probation for a DUI conviction in South Carolina, you cannot enlist until your sentence is fully completed. Even after that, you may need to wait a certain period before you can apply, and you’ll likely need a moral character waiver.
If your South Carolina DUI involved any aggravating circumstances, such as a very high blood alcohol content (BAC), a crash, injury to another person, or having a child in the vehicle, your case will be viewed more harshly. These situations often result in felony charges or longer sentencing, both of which make it much more difficult to obtain a waiver.
In some cases, a recruiter may view a single, non-aggravated DUI as forgivable, especially if it occurred several years ago, and you’ve stayed out of trouble since. But recent convictions or repeat offenses significantly lower your chances.
Steps to Take After a DUI if You Want to Enlist
The key to enlisting after a DUI is to be proactive, transparent, and demonstrate to the military that you are a responsible and trustworthy individual. Here are some steps to take if you want to enlist.
1. Hire a South Carolina DUI Lawyer Immediately
The outcome of your DUI case can impact your ability to enlist. An attorney may be able to get your charges reduced or dismissed, negotiate alternatives like pre-trial intervention (PTI), and help you avoid a permanent conviction.
2. Complete All Court Requirements
If you’ve already been convicted, it’s important to complete all sentencing requirements, such as probation, DUI classes or treatment, community service, and license reinstatement. The military will want to see that you’ve taken responsibility and followed through with what the court asked of you.
3. Avoid Any Additional Trouble
Another arrest, even for something minor, can end your military hopes entirely. The military is looking for stability, maturity, and responsibility. Show them you’ve changed.
4. Be Honest With Your Recruiter
Tell the truth when discussing your DUI with a military recruiter. They will run background checks, and trying to hide a DUI will only make things worse. Honesty gives you a fighting chance at a moral waiver.
5. Start Gathering Character References
Letters of recommendation from employers, teachers, mentors, or clergy members can go a long way. These references demonstrate to the military that your DUI was an error, not a reflection of your character.
6. Prepare for the Moral Waiver Process
A lawyer with experience handling military DUI cases can help you prepare the documentation and messaging needed for a stronger waiver application.
How a South Carolina DUI Lawyer Can Help
Our DUI lawyers can work to get your charges reduced or even dismissed. We understand the intricacies of South Carolina DUI law, and we can challenge the evidence against you.
If a conviction is unavoidable, we can help you manage the waiver process. These waivers are not granted lightly, so it’s important to hire experienced help to get it right.
Our DUI lawyers can help you prepare a compelling waiver application that presents you in the best possible light. This includes helping you gather all the necessary documentation, such as court records and proof of rehabilitation, and crafting a personal statement that demonstrates your remorse, accountability, and commitment to a future of service.
Finally, we can provide you with realistic advice and guidance throughout the entire process. The military’s policies on criminal offenses can be complex and are subject to change. Our lawyer can help you understand what to expect and ensure you are taking all the right steps moving forward.
Contact Our South Carolina DUI Lawyer
Whether you’re currently facing DUI charges or dealing with a past conviction that’s standing in the way of your enlistment, Savage, Royall, & Sheheen LLC can help you protect your rights, your record, and your future.
Our experienced South Carolina DUI lawyers will fight for the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us at 803-432-4391 or visit our office right here in Camden, SC 29020, for a consultation to discuss your situation and learn how we can help.