Welcome to the second edition of my series of articles on understanding the new DUI Laws in South Carolina. My last blog anticipated that the final step enacting South Carolina’s New DUI Law, also known as Senator Joel Lourie’s Bill #137, or Emma’s Law, was just hours away. With  Governor Nikki Haley’s signature this week, that step was taken. Years in the making, it’s now official: South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Devices are here to stay. Technically, DUI Ignition Interlock Devices are not “new”, since the current DUI  law In South Carolina  provides for their use in convictions of DUI 2nd or greater. Mercifully, most folks have not dealt with these. Since Emma’s Law now requires that DUI Ignition Interlock Devices be imposed for DUI 1st offenses, –the subject of last week’s blog–  this article will refer to South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device as such because, starting October of this year, they will be required for these these first offenses for the first time. Fair enough? So let’s examine South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device and what it’s all about.

South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device: Exactly What Is It?

South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device  is a mechanism, similar to a breathalyzer or Datamaster that is physically installed in a vehicle’s dashboard. It is designed to prevent a driver from operating the vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. While these devices are not identical in every state, their purpose and function is. 2014 Emma’s Law designates that South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device, in addition to measuring blood alcohol levels, must also take your picture and verify that you are behind the wheel before you can start your engine. Emma’s Law further provides that South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device will not allow you to start your car if you have a blood alcohol level of .02 or higher. SO remember, in South Carolina, not only should you  blow under .02, It best be YOUR lips wrapped around that tube, lest ye pay the a dear price for breaking the new DUI Law. They’re watching you!

So, now that you have a general idea as to what South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device actually is, let’s move ahead to a more complicated subject.

South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device: How do I get one?

I think it’s important to note here that
South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device will be strictly enforced and closely monitored. Primary oversight falls to the South Carolina Ignition Interlock Device Program, which is housed within The S.C. Department of Probation, Pardon & Parole Services. Additionally, the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) will partner with DPPPS to operate key components of the South Carolina Ignition Interlock Device Program, and all three agencies will cooperate and share information to ensure successful implementation and operation of South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device.

So let’s move ahead in our analysis. Suppose you have just been convicted of DUI for refusing or for blowing over a .15. Firstly, your license is suspended. That means you do not drive until you get South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device installed on your car, But it’s not that easy. Firstly, you must COMPLETE the ADSAP program. Then, you must go and meet with a certified vender. Currently, there are three (3) Certified Venders in South Carolina who will tell you what specific mechanic in your area is qualified to install your New DUI Ignition Interlock Device in South Carolina. (Please understand that your favorite hometown mechanic may not be able to do this. You must go to a mechanic designated by the certified vender.)

Once that expert mechanic has successfully installed South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device in your car, he will issue  a certificate of authenticity, which you must then take to the DMV to prove you have done this correctly. Then, and only then, will you be issued your new Ignition Interlock Restricted License. Not to overwhelm here, but remember it is critical that you distinguish this special interlock restricted license from other licenses you may have heard of : South Carolina Route Restricted License , South Carolina Temporary Alcohol License or a Provisional License in South Carolina. The current information on my website is still accurate for these licenses, Emma’s Law and the introduction of  South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device has merely added another category of driver’s license to the list! I hope That hasn’t totally confused you! Let’s move ahead.

Now that I have South Carolina’s new DUI Ignition Interlock Device installed, How Does It Work?

The Driver must first  breathe into the device before starting the vehicle. If the analyzed breath sample results higher than .02 alcohol, the vehicle will not start. But that’s not all.  Remember what I just said about Emma’s Law and South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device: You also get your picture taken, so when a mouth clamps down on that plastic tube, be sure it’s attached to YOUR face when you’re suckin’ and blowin’! Don’t try  “lookalikes” for the camera. Funny business: NOT a good idea.

To be sure, there’s  nothing funny about the fact that, once you start driving, you will be required to submit to the equivalent of “random drug tests” any time the machine indicates that you must blow again. And if you don’t, car will react. That’s right, if you keep reading, I’ll tell you how! Incidentally, these random breath test requirements are designed to prevent you from finding someone to “blow for you”, so you can start your engine, then drive away. [oh, and if you TRY to do that, the "Bad Samaritan" who tries to help you is also subject to a penalty, but I'll wait until another blog for that one!]

So let’s assume you blow into South Carolina’s New DUI Interlock Device and you register .02 or more. We just learned that you can’t crank er up. But if you fail a random test whilst driving…what then? That’s when South Carolina’s New DUI Interlock Device will begin to warn you: alarms will ring, lights will flash and your horn will blow until you park it and turn it off.

Each time this happens, it costs you. “How do they know”, You ask?…Officials can call you out because you are required to take  South Carolina’s New DUI Interlock Device back to the expert mechanic for “servicing” every 60 days to ensure it’s working properly and to be sure you have not flunked a random re-test like this!

So Just How Long Do I Have to keep South Carolina’s New DUI Ignition Interlock Device in My Car?

For a DUI 1st Offense = Six (6) Months

For a DUI 2nd Offiese = Two (2) Years

For a DUI 3rd Offense = Four (4) Years

For a DUI 4th Offense = For Life*

*You can try to get “paroled” from this life sentence, but only once every five (5) years. And it’s up to the Parole Board, the victim’s family can testify, etc…

What if I get caught violating the requirements of South Carolina’s New DUI Interlock Device?

Emma’s Law has set up a complicated NEW point system to determine your penalty when you violate various parts of the New DUI Law in South Carolina. Do not confuse this point system with the current point system utilized by the DMV when you speed, run red lights, etc…

Firstly, remember that once convicted you must obtain the new Ignition Interlock Restricted License. Therefore, the following point assessments are levied against THAT special license for violating requirements of South Carolina’s New DUI Interlock Device. Secondly, kindly recall that you are under an obligation to bring your car in every 60 days for maintenance. When the mechanic checks it, he must  report to the DMV any violations recorded in the data box of your New South Carolina DUI Interlock Device.

Blowing a .02 will NOT result in a point violation; however, the car will not start. SO let’s assume you “pass the test” and your car starts. You are driving along and South Carolina’s New DUI Interlock Device asks you to submit a random “re-test”…

If you fail to “take” that re-test and keep on driving = One (1) point assessed

If you take the re-test, and register between a .02-.04 = one-half (1/2) point assessed

If you take the re-test and blow between  a .04- .15 = 0ne (1) point assessed

If you take the re-test and blow over a .15 = two (2) points assessed

Failure to report to the mechanic every 60 days = One (1) point assessed

So what are the consequences of all these “points” against my Ignition Interlock Restricted License?

Racking up 2 – 2.5 Points will tack TWO MONTHS onto your New DUI Interlock Device Requirement

Racking up 3 – 3.5 Points will tack FOUR MONTHS onto your New Interlock Device Requirement

and… you will have to take ANOTHER Alcohol Rehabilitation Course (since the first one clearly didn’t “sink in “)

Racking up 4 points or higher will SUSPEND your Ignition Interlock Restricted License for six (6) Months

and… you will have to take yet ANOTHER Alcohol Rehabilitation Course (since the first TWO (2) clearly didn’t do you a lick of good!) (Is there something WRONG with you?)

—————————————————————————————————————————-

 There are so many more details contained in this  47-page chunk of legislation  –South Carolina’s New DUI Law — but my goal in this series of articles is to explain the main parts and paint a general user-friendly overview that is not painfully boring to read. I hope that  my tenure with the House,  coupled with my 26 years practicing DUI & Criminal Defense in Columbia, S.C. will enable me to uniquely do so.

Lastly–just as before–and you probably know this, but I need to repeat it LOUDLY–

This is a blog. ( I hope you think it’s a DARN GOOD ONE) But this is not “legal advice”. If you need legal advice…you need to get in touch with a LAWYER. Personally.

As for this attorney, Rest Assured, I’ve been doing this for over 26 years. We are on top of it at Cromer Law Offices, LLC.  I will be posting many more details about Emma’s Law in the future.

And I hope you never drink and drive in the first place.

If you do get arrested and charged with  DUI in South Carolina, especially now that Emma’s Law has passed, I strongly urge to obtain legal help while navigating through these rough waters. I’d be honored if you chose me.

Be safe and I’ll be back soon.

Bubba Cromer

J.L. Mann (Bubba) Cromer is an Attorney in Columbia, whose practice focuses on DUI Defense, Criminal Defense & Probate Administration and Estate Planning. Admitted to practice in South Carolina, California & The District of Columbia, “Bubba” has been in practice for 26 years. In addition to his Solo Practice at Cromer Law Offices, LLC, Bubba Served as the only true Independent In the S.C. Legislature from 1990-1998. For the past 16 years, he has Served as the Reading Clerk of the House. Bubba resides in Columbia, S.C and Rosman, N.C. where he built a cabin 4 years ago. Bubba lives with his Hungarian Golden Retriever,Casper.

NOTE: The use of the Internet with Cromer Law Offices, LLC. or any individual member of Cromer Law Offices, LLC. does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this medium. – See more at: http://cromerlawoffices.com/contact/#sthash.yGiaRaoL.dpuf

The post Ignition Interlock Device: SC’s New DUI Law appeared first on Cromer Law Offices, LLC.

South Carolina DUI Changes with Emma’s Law

On Wednesday afternoon around 4 O’clock, I received a message from the Senate: They had agreed with the House’s Amendments to Senator Lourie’s Bill #137. I immediately brought it to the attention of Speaker Bobby Harrell, who was very busy ushering The House of Representatives through its most dynamic week of the Legislative Session.  It was near-certain that the 2014 Bill known as “Emma’s Law”  In South Carolina had finally passed. Clearly,  South Carolina DUI Changes with Emma’s Law, but  It was time to address What those  DUI Changes really mean.

By God’s Grace, good health (and a little luck) I haven’t missed a day of Legislative Session in the South Carolina House for 24 years. So, when South Carolina DUI Changes with Emma’s Law, you’d probably assume that means I can read any piece of legislation and understand it backwards & forwards after a mere glance. Well, sorry to admit it, but I can’t. In reality, even short, concise Bills aren’t always as “simple” as they sound. Just ask Clarendon County’s rising star, Rep. Robert Ridgeway!  (Can anybody say “Woolly Mammoth?) 

So a 47-page chunk of Legislation like the 2014 “Emma’s Law” — South Carolina’s new DUI Law — has proven to be as complicated as it is comprehensive. In addition to my tenure with the House, I have also spent 26 years practicing DUI & Criminal Defense in Columbia, S.C.  This week, when the S.C. Senate concurred in the House Amendments to Emma’s Law, I felt is was crucially important to study the New South Carolina DUI Law and decipher precisely how  South Carolina DUI Changes with Emma’s Law. With Governor Nikki Haley’s likely signature, Ignition interlock device requirements in South Carolina should become a reality within hours.

Firstly, my thoughts and prayers go out to the driving force behind this Legislation: Emma Longstreet and her family. This true innocent lost her life to a drunk driver just miles from where I live. To be sure, there are few things more inspiring than watching a family like theirs channel such pain and use it to effect major, substantive change they believe in. Due to the remarkable effort they launched after this tragedy, it is incumbent on all of us to consider how  South Carolina DUI Changes with Emma’s Law.  I have much respect for them.

South Carolina DUI Law

I also hold much respect for the fact that in America, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty. And just because you have been charged with Driving Under the Influence in South Carolina does not mean that you are guilty of it. So let’s jump in here and get a handle on the major, new substantive changes made by  Emma’s Law and how it changes  South Carolina DUI. How does Emma’s Law affect the S.C. DUI Statutes?  How does Emma’s Law alter current Penalties for drunk driving in South Carolina?

If you’re confused, don’t feel badly. This one is intimidating. I have spent hours analyzing the 47-page Bill, speaking to proponents and opponents, legislative staff and fellow attorneys, and I still don’t grasp all the nuances. (Frankly, I don’t think anyone does at this stage.) But in my analysis, getting a firm a grip on just how  South Carolina DUI Changes with Emma’s Law was easier by first wrapping my head around what Emma’s Law does NOT change.

Does all South Carolina DUI Change with Emma’s Law?

The new South Carolina DUI Law does not affect someone if they

1.Have been charged with DUI before October 1, 2014,
2.Have been charged with DUI after October 1, 2014, but have yet to be CONVICTED,
3. Are charged with DUI, but blew a .14 or LOWER, or,
4. Have their license suspended because they refused to blow into the breathalyzer, or data master.

Now don’t get too excited about #4. You will still have your license suspended for refusing to blow, or if you blow too high. My point is that Emma’s Law doesn’t CHANGE anything. Everything on my Cromer Law Offices, LLC  website is still accurate about challenging your initial suspension in an Administrative Hearing in South Carolina. Same is the case with my descriptions of temporary alcohol licenses in South Carolina, route restricted licenses in South Carolina, ADSAP requirements for suspended licenses in South Carolina, etc…

So let’s move onto Emma’s Law In South Carolina:

What are the South Carolina DUI Changes

with Emma’s Law?

Major Change #1

After October 1, 2014,  If you get CONVICTED of DUI–note I did not say “charged” here — and you blow .15 or higher , You MUST install an Ignition interlock device on your car, PROVE that you installed it, and be issued an “Ignition interlock restricted license”.  (Note I say MUST here, indicating that you cannot just say “the heck with this Ignition interlock device , I’ll just wait out my six (6) months and get my license back”) If you cannot get an ignition interlock device installed on your car, you cannot drive. Ever again . Rephrase: The bottom line is you will never drive again until you do so, for six (6) months, with the ignition interlock device installed on your car. [that's right, I said NEVER DRIVE AGAIN.] During this six (6) months you may only drive when you successfully blow into that device. And there’s more. (see Laura Hudson’s comments that follow). You pay for the cost of of the ignition interlock device. If you mess up, your suspension is extended, your fines increase, and I’m just talking about a FIRST offense here. The South Carolina Ignition Interlock Device Program has a multitude of policies and procedures and is administered within the South Carolina Department of Probation, Pardon & Parole.

Major Change #2

After October 1, 2014, if you get CONVICTED of DUI– once again, note I did not say “charged” here — and you REFUSED the Breathalyzer, or data master, your license is suspended for six (6) months. The difference here is that during that six (6) months, you do not HAVE to install and pay for the Ignition interlock device as I just described. You do not HAVE to obtain an “Ignition interlock restricted license”  as I just described.   (In other words, you CAN say, ” the heck with this Ignition interlock device , I’ll just wait out my six (6) months and get my license back”) But… you can no longer obtain a “Provisional License” and continue to drive like you can now. So… bear in mind you if you don’t want to hassle with the ignition interlock device, you won’t be driving. Park it. You’re grounded. The only way you MAY keep driving is to get the Ignition interlock device, pay for it, etc…

Major change #3 

After October 1, 2014, if you get CONVICTED of DUI– once again, note I did not say “charged” here — and you blew UNDER a .15, your license is once again suspended for six (6) months. The difference here is that you don’t HAVE to install and pay for the ignition interlock device like you would if you blew over a .15,You do not HAVE to obtain an “Ignition interlock restricted license”  like you would if you blew over a .15, and you MAY “wait out ” your suspension like you can if you refused the breathalyzer, or data master. But …if you want to drive, you are eligible to get the “provisional license” currently available under the law as described in my website if you meet those requirements. I know this gets tricky, but understand that I’m talking about a PROVISIONAL License in South Carolina, NOT a “route restricted license in South Carolina”, a
“Temporary Alcohol License in South Carolina” or a new “ignition interlock restricted license In South Carolina Under Emma’s Law”
(Incidentally, you can also “choose” to install the ignition interlock device if you blow under a .15, but I can’t for the life of me think of a single reason why you’d do that…I’ll let you know when or if I figure that one out.) 

So take a deep breath. Reflect. And be happy because I am going to stop. For now, anyway.

Please remember that the examples above are for FIRST offenses only. Obviously it gets worse for subsequent offenses. There is so much more to the 2014 Emma’s Law and the changes it makes to South Carolina’s DUI Statutes. This blog is neither intended to be nor represents itself as a complete overview. I just wanted to set forth some basic points about Emma’s Law In South Carolina.Especially in light of the fact that there is SO MUCH CONFUSION and misinformation out there!

So if that’s not everything Emma’s Law Changes about South Carolina DUI Law, What are some examples of additional changes?

*there’s a new, complicated point system assessed for messing up while you have the ignition interlock device installed on your car.

*Your individual suspension time can be increased, depending on that point system.

*There are complicated criteria set up to address circumstances such as when you do not OWN a car, but you MUST be able to drive for your job. (And might I just add here that you better hope your Boss LOVES you!)

*There are different penalties for DUI if you are UNDERAGE.

*The “look back time” between DUI convictions has changed (i.e., “how far back can they look to see if I’ve ever gotten another DUI?”)

…And, on top of all of this, there are new, heavier FINES for DUI under South Carolina’s new Drunk Driving Laws.

Lastly–and you probably know this but I need to say it LOUDLY–

This is a blog. ( I hope you think it’s a DARN GOOD ONE) But this is not “legal advice”. If you need legal advice…you need to get in touch with a LAWYER. Personally.

As for this attorney, Rest Assured, I’ve been doing this for over 26 years. We are on top of it at Cromer Law Offices, LLC.  I will be posting many more details about Emma’s Law in the future. I just didn’t want to overwhelm you at this point before it technically goes into effect. I hope my initial explanation paints a general picture for you. And I hope you never drink and drive in the first place.

If you do get arrested for DUI in South Carolina, especially now that Emma’s Law has passed, I strongly urge to obtain legal help while navigating through these rough waters. I’d be honored if you chose me.

Be safe and I’ll be back soon.

Bubba Cromer

J.L. Mann (Bubba) Cromer is an Attorney in Columbia, whose practice focuses on DUI Defense, Criminal Defense & Probate Administration and Estate Planning. Admitted to practice in South Carolina, California & The District of Columbia, “Bubba” has been in practice for 26 years. In addition to his Solo Practice at Cromer Law Offices, LLC, Bubba Served as the only true Independent In the S.C. Legislature from 1990-1998. For the past 16 years, he has Served as the Reading Clerk of the House. Bubba resides in Columbia, S.C and Rosman, N.C. where he built a cabin 4 years ago. Bubba lives with his Hungarian Golden Retriever,Casper.

NOTE: The use of the Internet with Cromer Law Offices, LLC. or any individual member of Cromer Law Offices, LLC. does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this medium. – See more at: http://cromerlawoffices.com/contact/#sthash.yGiaRaoL.dpuf

The post South Carolina DUI Changes with Emma’s Law appeared first on Cromer Law Offices, LLC.

They say as long as you are spoken of, you never really die. If that’s true, Mary Shivers warrants immortality. Though she left this Earth while Pope Francis was still known as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the then-Archbishop of Buenos Aries would surely be smiling if he had known the life lived by this selfless South Carolinian of the highest order. In fact, this lifelong Baptist’s life story could be ripped from the pages of Saint Francis of Assisi ‘s “Guide To A Better World”,had he ever paused long enough to pen one. Mary Shivers was preceded in death by another notable Franciscan-follower: Mother Teresa. Three years ago, I wrote an op-ed piece for The State Newspaper in an attempt to pay tribute to Mary Shivers– the South Carolina Saint– by comparing her to Teresa of Calcutta–the Saint-In-Progress. I hope an updated re-publication this piece is warranted today. Happy Birthday Mary Shivers: Pope Francis would’ve been proud.

Lower Richland County, S.C. is a far cry from Calcutta, India; however, they share an extraordinary commonality: Each has lost an Icon who personified altruism. Both Icons were ladies from poor upbringings yet self-motivated. Both women testified to have specifically felt the call of God at age twelve. The obvious half of this equation is Mother Teresa. The less obvious, Mary Shivers, would have turned 86 today.

Like the early Mother Teresa, Mary Shivers was unconventional. She rose to action without prompt. Took the initiative. Stepped boldly before the Throne in an effort to help those less fortunate. Unlike the established Teresa of Calcutta, Mary Shivers did not receive her orders from The Holy See; rather, she created, from scratch, an intricate network and an innate sense of “Community” in Lower Richland County, South Carolina that could – at a moment’s notice – console a new widow, clothe a needy child, feed a hungry family, open up a shut-in, fund a lifesaving operation or, in my experience, elect a public official.

Twenty-six years ago, I faced an uphill battle as an unknown, inexperienced, unconnected, anti-establishment write-in candidate for House District 80. Blowing in to my makeshift campaign headquarters after an unproductive morning of fundraising, I was delighted to see the message light flashing on my machine. “This is Mary. I have a Beauty Salon. You don’t know me. We don’t know you. I got your letter. It’s O.K., but we’re pretty upset out here and you might want to stop by the shop to talk about it.” “Oh yea, it’s on Terry Street. You’ll find it.”

Before the answering machine reset, I was out the door. Within five minutes, I was sitting in a single-wide, amongst six animated, big-haired women convening for their weekly “wash-and-sets.” The only thing more pungent than the chemicals in the air was the realization that I had stumbled into what can only be described as a “central nervous system” of public opinion. In over two decades that have followed that first meeting at Mary’s Beauty Salon, I have faced some tough times and rough audiences, but none surpasses this fundamental initiation into politics. Five hours later, I emerged from the single-wide, a little dizzier and LOT savvier than when I had entered it.

At Mary Shivers’ visitation and funeral on January 10, 2011, you only needed to look around the crowd to see that my political rite of passage was just the first of many to follow for Richland County politicians:Darrell Jackson, Gary Watts, Jimmy Bales, Leon Lott, Joe Neal, Tony Mizzell, Bernice Scott and many more elected and non-elected politicos punctuated the standing room-only celebration of a life well-lived.

But to describe Mary Shivers as a mere political influence should be classified as a Class-A Felony!

I truly think it fair to say that no person breathing air on this Earth could live a MORE God-centered life than Mary Shivers. Race, creed, color, national origin, orientation (party or sexual) were of no consequence to her. A charter member of Temple Baptist Church and the proud mother of renowned Evangelist Frank “Brother” Shivers, Mary had a strict moral code, which, incidentally, would never include casting judgment on others: “I hate the Sin, but love the Sinner.” She was also quick to admit her own weaknesses: “Don’t judge a book by its cover; don’t judge a Preacher by his mother!” I can close my eyes and see her saying it to this day.

Mary Shivers was blessed with an energy that few mortals share. She was impossible to keep up with. The Capital View Homeowners’ Association, Order of the Eastern Star, Richland County Sheriff’s Department, Lower Richland Ruritan Club, Red Hat Society and Camp Longridge were just a few of the organizations whose lifeblood pulsed through her veins. Additionally, Mary was a near full-time caterer who assigned every dime of revenue to charity. All this while working full-time as a licensed beautician since 1963.

Albeit not by her design, Mary received accolades during her lifetime from her community, her church, the Richland County Council and Sheriff, the South Carolina House and Senate and the Office of the Governor. But, it was SERVICE, not honors or accolades that drove this Lady.

Nearly everyone whom I have come across in life selfishly houses some want in return for his efforts. I am no different. I worked hard for my District when elected, but I selfishly wanted my constituent’s vote in return. At my law office, I work hard for my clients, but I selfishly want to get paid for my services. This is where Mary Shivers stands alone. With the unparalleled, gargantuan workload this one woman consistently maintained throughout her 83 years, she never held a selfish want for a single thing. Ever. It was always about others.

There’s no doubt that Mary Shivers was a second mother to me. Just like two weeks ago, back on January 10,2011 Columbia was blanketed with a beautiful cover of snow. As I sat in my Florida Room enjoying this novelty with my own Mother, I suddenly noticed that my brand new Christmas wristwatch had stopped at 3:30 pm. As had the clock in my living room. As had the clock on my bedroom wall. All stopped at exactly 3:30 pm. I knew Mary Shivers was ill; I was just not allowing myself to accept how ill.

As I drove Mom home, I feared what I was to learn an hour later. Mary’s daughter Linda called to tell me she had died. At precisely 3:30 pm.

In her own way, Mary was telling me goodbye. I hope that this forum, while unconventional, is an appropriate place for me do the same. God bless you, Mary Shivers. Mother Teresa, Welcome your Sister.

James “Bubba” Cromer

Former Richland County House Representative, District #80

Reading Clerk, S.C. House of Representatives

Attorney, Cromer Law Offices, LLC

Originally Published in The State Newspaper, March 1, 2011

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As I write this blog, snow is covering the ground in 49/50 states. My college roommate and his wife proudly reminded that Florida prevented the snow shutout. Since that means that all of y’all most likely have a “2014 South Carolina Snowstorm story “of your own, I’ll restrain myself from imposing “Bubba & Casper Snow tales” this week. That also means you’ll have to hit up this Columbia SC DUI Attorney website if you are interested in understanding the DUI laws in S.C., expunging your criminal record, challenging a suspended license or brushing up on DUI Penalties and drunk driving laws in South Carolina. And no crazy DUI cases from around the world either!

This week, I’m just going to let my pictures do the talking, with a few captions from yours truly. I hope you enjoy them half as much as I enjoyed taking them. And please, by all means, feel free to comment with your own “Southern Winter Storm of 2014” story. In fact, I’d appreciate it!

If you have been arrested for DUI in South Carolina, This Columbia SC DUI Attorney can help. But we can talk about blood alcohol levels, reckless driving & drunk driving fines and penalties later! Keep warm folks. Thanks for allowing me to share a few of these!

 Okay, I’ll stop now (but I have more) It’s Your Turn. Reply with your story or pic.

J.L. Mann (Bubba) Cromer is an Attorney in Columbia, whose practice focuses on DUI Defense, Criminal Defense & Probate Administration and Estate Planning. Admitted to practice in South Carolina, California & The District of Columbia, “Bubba” has been in practice for 26 years. In addition to his Solo Practice at Cromer Law Offices, LLC, Bubba Served as the only true Independent In the S.C. Legislature from 1990-1998. For the past 16 years, he has Served as the Reading Clerk of the House.Bubba resides in Columbia, S.C and Rosman, N.C. where he built a cabin 4 years ago. Bubba lives with his Hungarian Golden Retriever, Casper.

The post Columbia SC DUI Attorney under the influence of SNOW! appeared first on Cromer Law Offices, LLC.

Last week, a Mexican motorist was pulled over by police at a routine alcohol checkpoint in Mexico City.  The officers had no reason to suspect there was a problem, until the driver’s pet parrot blew the whistle on him.  When the gentleman in question was asked to step out of the car and take a field sobriety test, the police heard what they thought was another individual in the car.  Asking the driver to step aside while they searched the car for someone else, the police were shocked to discover a talking parrot in the backseat.  The parrot was repeatedly saying “He’s drunk, he’s drunk, he’s drunk.”   (Really?  You ‘gotta wonder, who has this parrot been listening to?)

Mexico measures intoxication with something similar to a field sobriety test in South Carolina, the Mexican  that indicated a blood alcohol level of well over the legal level of intoxication, the driver was arrested and transported to El Torito, the city’s “drunk tank” where intoxicated individuals are allowed to spend the night and sober up.  Check this out, because South Carolina DUI laws never allow it:  while the bird was eventually taken away by the Animal Surveillance Brigade, he was returned to jail to be with his owner out of fear the bird was die from sorrow at being separated from the man.

So how often do pets figure in to a DUI case?  Apparently more often than you would think.  Take for instance the case of a northeast Florida man who blamed his pet squirrel for a DUI charge. The driver confessed to police he drank a few beers Saturday night and was driving with his pet squirrel when he was pulled over.  Police reports show the man told the officer he wasn’t drunk, but “had a squirrel eating him” and that’s when he pulled out the small squirrel he had wrapped under his shirt.  Rather than the beer causing him to nearly hit two pedestrians and another car, he blamed it on the squirrel.  The squirrel has been appropriate renamed DUI (pronounced Dew-ee).

And then there’s the story of the man who took his pet zebra and a parrot to a bar.  A man was arrested outside of a bar with a pet zebra and a macaw parrot in the front seat of his truck. Officers charged him with OWI. Police stopped him in the parking lot of the Dog House Lounge as he drove away in his truck.  Field sobriety tests showed he had a blood alcohol level of .14. The legal limit in Iowa is .08, and there is a zero-tolerance policy for drunk driving.  (You can bet someone’s in the dog house now!)

The driver and his girlfriend see the animals as their children and often take them for rides. On this particular night, they took the zebra and the macaw to the bar because it often lets people bring their animals inside. The  says the owner told him they were serving food that night and he couldn’t bring a zebra inside the bar; however, the bar’s owners report that no animals are ever allowed inside the establishment.

At that time he went outside to put the animals in his truck and several people were in the parking lot taking pictures. He believes one of those people called police. The man disputes the charges and says he realized he was too drunk to drive and was about to let a passenger in the truck to take the wheel when he was arrested.

In my 26 years of practicing DUI law in South Carolina, this experienced DUI defense lawyer from Columbia, South Carolina, must say, I’ve never run across a case quite like any of these.  I can only wonder … what were they thinking?  Good thing none of these folks were arrested for DUI in South Carolina!

J.L. Mann (Bubba) Cromer is an Attorney in Columbia, whose practice focuses on DUI Defense, Criminal Defense & Probate Administration and Estate Planning. Admitted to practice in South Carolina, California & The District of Columbia, “Bubba” has been in practice for 26 years. In addition to his Solo Practice at Cromer Law Offices, LLC, Bubba Served as the only true Independent In the S.C. Legislature from 1990-1998. For the past 16 years, he has Served as the Reading Clerk of the House.Bubba resides in Columbia, S.C and Rosman, N.C. where he built a cabin 4 years ago. Bubba lives with his Hungarian Golden Retriever Casper.

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Take the recent case of a Russian man whose driver’s license was recently suspended for a record-breaking 106 years.  According to police in the city of Perm, the man’s license was suspended to “prevent him from getting behind the wheel while intoxicated in the future”.  Really? His Driver’s License would surely be suspended in South Carolina!  The man was stopped when police detected a car driving erratically a few feet from a police checkpoint. It was not the first time his license had been suspended.

Around 10 people in this area of roughly 900,000 people whose driving licenses have been suspended due to drunk driving have lost their licenses for similarly lengthy terms. “There are some people whose licenses have been suspended for 100, 102 years, for 106, i.e. the person’s driving license suspended for life for DUI. What would stop him from getting behind the wheel while drunk? Before that there was at least something he was afraid of,” the head of regional traffic police said during a press conference.  Really?

An average of between 40 and 70 drivers are stopped for drunk driving in the Perm area every day. Police say this shows that increased fines – the equivalent of $1,000 – doesn’t seem to stop drivers from violating the law.  Instead, the majority of drivers simply sell their cars and never drive again.  Jail time, anyone? They should learn some lessons from the DUI Fines in South Carolina.

Interestingly enough, it was as recent as June 2013 that Russian President Vladimir Putin lifted a zero-tolerance policy for drunk driving.  (Thank goodness he conjured up a new zero-tolerance policy: Against Russian homosexuals.  I know, right?)  Drivers are now declared drunk if they exhale 0.16 % (compare this to .08% in South Carolina) into a South Carolina breathalyzer test, understand?  After a car crash in the Russian city of Yaroslavl, a drunken man continued to drive as if nothing had happened. The driver completely ignored the fact that the Toyota Corolla he was driving had been nearly torn into two and a passenger in the backseat was dead.

On a Saturday morning, two co-workers arrived at work still drunk from a drinking binge the day before.  Because their supervisor told them to go home and sleep off the intoxication, the two drove away in an old Toyota rather than looking for public transportation.  After speeding and reckless driving, the 36-year-old driver made no crashed into the front of a small bus loaded with passengers.

While the bus sustained extensive damage, no one was killed except the passenger in the car. The rear part of Toyota, however, was torn off the chassis.  The driver was so drunk that he continued to drive down the road, eventually colliding with a Subaru at a crossroad.  After viewing the remains of the car, it is nothing short of miraculous that the heap of metal was actually able to continue driving.

Police officers found that the man was so drunk he could barely walk, let alone drive a car.  The driver was toxicologically examined, interrogated, and was unbelievably allowed to go home.  Again, jail time?  Anybody with me?  The man was later jailed for 15 days and his driver’s license suspended for 18 months.

Still, what really bewildered experienced police officers were the remains of the car, that continued to drive despite looking like a pile of metal scraps, with reportedly only one detail remaining fully intact – the driver’s seat.  To Bubba Cromer DUI attorney, what is really bewildering is law that will actually allow this man to get behind the wheel of a car in 18 short months. It’s a good thing South Carolina DUI laws are far tougher!

Here’s to the Russians.

J.L. Mann (Bubba) Cromer is an Attorney in Columbia, whose practice focuses on DUI Defense, Criminal Defense & Probate Administration and Estate Planning. Admitted to practice in South Carolina, California & The District of Columbia, “Bubba” has been in practice for 26 years. In addition to his Solo Practice at Cromer Law Offices, LLC, Bubba Served as the only true Independent In the S.C. Legislature from 1990-1998. For the past 16 years, he has Served as the Reading Clerk of the House. Bubba resides in Columbia, S.C and Rosman, N.C. where he built a cabin 4 years ago. 

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One could make the case that the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was the most significant American of the 20th century. He is only the third American whose birthday is commemorated as a federal holiday, a distinction not even granted Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, FDR, or John F. Kennedy.  King placed himself solidly in the midst of the civil rights movement, and ultimately in the cross-hairs of a tug of war unfettered by the dignity of human rights.  Forty-five years after his death, his message is as relevant today as it was then and his legacy continues to inspire those who struggle to achieve the unalienable right of equality.

We have marveled at his talent for speaking and inspiring, we have mentally wandered the streets of Montgomery with him and witnessed the great busy boycott, celebrated this African-American Nobel Peace Prize winner who donated his prize money to the Civil Rights Movement, and horrifically imagined his last steps along the balcony in Memphis.  Yet there are many things that few know about this giant who so drastically changed life for us and for all people … for today, and for tomorrow.

1. Dr. King was born in Atlanta as Michael King Jr., named after his father, Michael King Sr., but the senior King changed his own name to Martin Luther King Jr. when he began to preach.  The younger King was five when his named was changed as well.

2. Martin Luther King Jr. was class president and valedictorian of the 1948 graduating class of Crozer Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania.

3. In 1963, he became was the first African-American to be named Time magazine’s Man of the Year.

4. At the age of 35, he became the youngest man to have been honored with the Nobel Peace Prize. He donated the prize money of over $54,000 to benefit the civil rights movement.

5. He was awarded at least 50 honorary degrees from colleges and universities.

6. There are more than 900 streets named after him, not to mention parks and monuments.

7.  He was arrested 30 times.

8.  The words I Have a Dream were not in his original speech of the same name.  He only included those words after Mahalia Jackson encouraged him to talk about the “dream”.

9. In 1968, the first legislation was introduced by U.S. Rep. John Conyers Jr. of Michigan to make King’s birthday a federal holiday. The bill was finally turned into law in November 1983 and the first official holiday was observed on the third Monday of January in 1986.

10. King is the only non-president to have a national holiday in his name, and is the only non-president with a memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

11. In 1994, Congress designated Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service.  It is the only federal holiday observed as a national day of service – a “day on, not a day off.”

12. Between 1957 and 1968, he traveled more than 6 million miles and spoke at more than 2,500 events.

Dr. King is considered to be one of the most important figures of the 20th century, not only for African-Americans but for all those seeking freedom, justice, equality and peace. His unique approach to the philosophy of nonviolent action stands as one of the most successful alternatives to the world’s ongoing struggle against violent conflict, and against structural injustice.  Today we pause to remember the man whose dream and sacrifice helped change the social landscape of life in this country, for this generation and generations to come.

 J.L. Mann (Bubba) Cromer is an Attorney in Columbia, whose practice focuses on DUI Defense, Criminal Defense & Probate Administration and Estate Planning. Admitted to practice in South Carolina, California & The District of Columbia, “Bubba” has been in practice for 26 years. In addition to his Solo Practice at Cromer Law Offices, LLC, Bubba Served as the only true Independent In the S.C. Legislature from 1990-1998. For the past 16 years, he has Served as the Reading Clerk of the House.Bubba resides in Columbia, S.C and Rosman, N.C. where he built a cabin 4 years ago. Bubba lives with his Hungarian Golden Retriever Casper.

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If you’ve been arrested for DUI in South Carolina, it can be an intimidating and frightening experience.  Cromer Law Offices, LLC highly recommends seeking the best possible legal advice to help walk you through the process and ensure you receive expert representation.  The following user-friendly guide to DUI in South Carolina, along with a good lawyer, should help you through the initial phases:

1.  You were most likely offered a breath or blood test to determine your level of intoxication. 

1. If you refused either of these tests, your license is automatically suspended for 6 months, and you will be required to enroll in the Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program (ADSAP).
2. If you took the test and your blood-alcohol concentration was .15 or higher, your license is automatically suspended and you will be required to enroll in ADSAP.
3. If you blew a .14 or less, your license should not have been suspended and you may continue driving with you current license, and with your current insurance until your DUI charge is resolved.

2.  Your license is suspended. 

It is important to note that you can challenge this suspension.  Bubba Cromer DUI Attorney can help you request an implied consent hearing within 30 days.  Here are some answers to questions that I hear every week.

Question: My license has been suspended.  Is it possible to obtain a temporary license while I await a hearing?

Answer: Yes.  A temporary alcohol license can be obtained while you await a hearing, and it is not restricted to a particular route.  If you challenge the hearing, do not apply for a route-restricted license; instead, immediately apply for a hearing in order to obtain your temporary license.  Do not confuse a route-restricted license with a temporary alcohol license.  They are very different.  Additionally, you are only eligible for a route-restricted license one (1) time!

Question: How long does it take to obtain a temporary license?

Answer: The DMV will receive notice of your hearing request within 2-7 days, so it’s important to apply for a hearing immediately.

Question: Can I drive while I await a temporary alcohol license?

 Answer: Absolutely not!  Under no circumstances should you drive with a suspended license.  If you are caught driving with a suspended license, this will decrease your chances of receiving a favorable resolution to your DUI charge.  It will also add another serious offense to your driving record and cost you even more money in fines.

3.  Your car was most likely impounded.

Question: What do I do if my car was impounded?

Answer: Typically, cars involved in DUI offenses are towed.  Bubba Cromer DUI Attorney recommends getting your car back as soon as possible.  The daily cost is high.  Your ticket will indicate where the car was towed.  You will need to take two (2) people with you to retrieve your car (one to drive you there and another to drive the impounded car to your home).  Again, you should not drive your car or anyone else’s with a suspended license.

4.  Understanding your ticket

Question: How do I make sense of this ticket?

Answer: Your ticket has important information on it that will help you determine your court date and other important information.  From the sample ticket below, you will notice several boxes with pertinent information to your case.

Date, time, and location of Trial – This is your first court date, along with the time.  A DUI conviction is possible on this date.  Cromer Law Offices, LLC recommends you seek legal advice and do not go to court alone.  Further, if you do not show up, the court will try and convict you in your absence.  If you have not hired an attorney by the time your court date is called, we recommend that you show up and tell the judge you are in the process of hiring an attorney.

Blood Alcohol Content – The far bottom right box indicates your blood alcohol content.  If you refused the test, the officer will note that in the box as well.  In this case it will usually say “ref” or “refused”.

 5.  Other traffic or criminal charges

 Question: What if I have additional traffic or criminal charges?

Answer: Carefully review all the paperwork you received in the event you were charged with other criminal, misdemeanor, or traffic violations.  By looking at the bottom of your Bail Proceeding Form, Bubba Cromer DUI Attorney can help you determine if any other charges are pending.

 6.  Your Bail Proceeding Form 

Question: I got out of jail on “Bail”, but what does that really mean?

Answer: Don’t leave South Carolina – The sample Bail Form, used at nearly every bail/bond proceeding in South Carolina, indicates that the defendant is released from custody on the condition that he/she will appear before the court and may not leave the State without permission of the court.

Question: What if there are other special conditions?

Answer: Check the reverse side of the form and the section titled Special Conditions of Release.  Any other conditions of your bail will be listed here.  You definitely need to obey these conditions if you don’t want a deputy knocking at your door for a return trip to jail.

Question: What happens to my criminal record after a DUI arrest?

Answer: SLED keeps arrest records for all individuals who have been booked and fingerprinted.  This does not indicate that you were convicted of DUI.   You will only have a DUI on your record if you plead guilty, of if you are convicted at trial. If you hire Cromer Law Offices, LLC, we include legally expunging your arrest record as part of our job. Remember: DUI convictions cannot be expunged from a record. See more at this link. Remember, after you are CONVICTED of DUI, there is no expunging that conviction like there is with several other types of convictions.

7.  Special Insurance after a DUI arrest

Question: Will I need Special insurance after I am arrested for DUI?

Answer: Until you have been convicted of a DUI, you do not require SR-22 Insurance, which is more expensive than regular automobile insurance and is required if you are convicted of DUI or DUAC.

Bubba Cromer DUI Attorney has over 25 years of experience helping individuals navigate the legal nuances of a DUI arrest in South Carolina.  We have a proven track record of providing the best representation possible, offering our clients a wealth of knowledge and the best possible outcome.  Make Cromer Law Offices, LLC your first call.   It will be most helpful to us if you have your ticket in front of you when you do.  Our professionals can be reached at (803) 254-7900.

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While a charge of this nature is no laughing matter– for the accused or the victim– there are some cases that are so over-the-top I would not believe them, if I weren’t reading it from credible sources. Over the past year, I have been making “mental notes” of these crazy DUI cases, and decided to piece them together in this week’s blog. Bear in mind, this is for your entertainment just as much as the Bigfoot Blogs–Driving under the influence in South Carolina is no laughing matter, even though these ridiculous DUI cases brought a smile to my face. Hope you enjoy them as well.

Barbie Car Drunk Driver - Paul Hutton, 40, was pulled over by police as he drove an electric Barbie car, which moves slower than a mobility scooter, near his home in Essex. Hutton, who has four children, admitted the ridiculousness of his actions. “You have to be a contortionist to get in, and then you can’t get out.  I was very surprised to get arrested for drunk driving, but I was a twit to say the least.  It is designed for three-to-five-year-olds.”  Chairman of the bench Neil Munson said,  “This is most unusual.  I have never seen the likes of it in 15 years on the bench.  The vehicle is not even capable of doing the speed of a mobility scooter and could be outrun by a pedestrian.”  The car was confiscated by police until the hearing, but Hutton hopes to get it back.  Barbie would never be caught dead in that vehicle, but where the hell was Ken?

Driving Motorized Cooler – An Australian man caught driving a motorized cooler through a beachside resort town was charged with drunk driving. The twenty-three year old faces charges of driving under the influence and driving without a license after police caught him on the makeshift vehicle, which was powered by a 50cc engine.  Apparently the judge was so amused trying to determine whether or not a cooler was considered a motor vehicle, that he’s been quoted as having asked the defendant, “How much beer can it hold?”  To which the defendant quipped, “A couple of cases.”  Are we talking Yeti here? You already know I’m a sucker for a good Bigfoot Sighting!

Talk about a Lazy Boy – A Minnesota man pleaded guilty to driving his motorized La-Z-Boy chair while drunk.  A criminal complaint said 62-year-old Dennis LeRoy Anderson told police he left a bar in the northern Minnesota town of Proctor on his chair after drinking eight or nine beers.  Prosecutors say Anderson’s blood alcohol content was 0.29, more than three times the legal limit, when he crashed into a parked vehicle in August 2008. He was not seriously injured.  Police said the chair was powered by a converted lawnmower and had a stereo and cup holders.  To make the story even more interesting, Police sold the La-Z-Boy for $10,000 on eBay!

Horse Fly - A Colorado man riding a horse to his brother’s wedding 600 miles away in Utah was arrested for drunken driving, animal cruelty and other charges after witnesses reported him blocking traffic and swatting his horse.  The man was cooperative but failed a field sobriety test and a search of his saddle bag turned up a small pistol and several beer cans. A small pug dog named Bufford was found in his backpack.”This is pretty unusual,” the sherifff said. “It’s probably the first time in department history that we have pulled someone over for driving under the influence while on a horse.”  The rider was arrested on misdemeanor charges of animal cruelty, prohibited use of weapons and reckless endangerment, as well as drunken horseback riding, which is a traffic infraction.  When asked by officers why he hit the horse, the man said that he was swatting a fly on its back.

I warned you: these were some hum-dingers. Makes you wonder what these folks would be like  behind the wheel of ANY vehicle even when they’re SOBER! Do you have a funny arrest story you’d like to share? Please comment below. But be sure to change the names to protect the (presumed) innocent! Happy New Year to you all.

J.L. Mann (Bubba) Cromer is an Attorney in Columbia, whose practice focuses on DUI Defense, Criminal Defense & Probate Administration and Estate Planning. Admitted to practice in South Carolina, California & The District of Columbia, “Bubba” has been in practice for 26 years. In addition to his Solo Practice at Cromer Law Offices, LLC, Bubba Served as the only true Independent In the S.C. Legislature from 1990-1998. For the past 16 years, he has Served as the Reading Clerk of the House.Bubba resides in Columbia, S.C and Rosman, N.C. where he built a cabin 4 years ago. Bubba lives with his Hungarian Golden Retriever Casper.

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Which brings me back to the question of the big guy–Santa Claus… Kris Kringle…Old Saint Nick… We see him on advertising posters, in parades, at departments stores…who is this guy and why does he have so many aliases? Well, the original St. Nicholas lived in southwestern Turkey in the 4th century. As a saint he was given his own “feast day” celebrated on December 6th.

At about the same time Nicholas lived, Pope Julius I decided to establish a date for the celebration of the birth of Jesus. As the actual time of year for this event was unknown, the Pope decided to assign the holiday to December 25th. There had long been a pagan midwinter festival at this time of year and the Pope hoped to use the holiday to Christianize the celebrations.

Eventually, Saint Nicholas’s feast day also became associated with December 25th and his connection with Christmas was established. A tradition developed that he would supposedly visit homes on Christmas Eve and children would place nuts, apples, sweets and other items around the house to welcome him. As the reformation took a hold of much of Europe, however, the popularity of St. Nicholas dropped in most Protestant countries, with the exception of Holland where he was referred to as “Sinter Klaas.” After this tradition came to the United States, “Sinter Klass” would eventually be corrupted to “Santa Claus.”

Nothing has fixed the image of Santa Claus so firmly in the American mind as a poem entitled A Visit from St. Nicholas written by Clement Moore in 1822. Moore, a professor of biblical languages at New York’s Episcopal Theological Seminary, incorporated some elements from German and Norse legends. These stories held that a happy little elf-like man presided over midwinter pagan festivals. In the poem, Moore depicts the Saint as a tiny man with a sleigh drawn by eight miniature reindeer. They fly him from house to house and at each residence he comes down the chimney to fill stockings hung by the fireplace with gifts.

Moore had written the poem for the enjoyment of his own family, but in 1823 it was published anonymously in the Troy Sentinel. It became very popular and has been reprinted countless times under the more familiar title, The Night Before Christmas.

Where did Moore get the reindeer? The Saami people of northern Scandinavia and Finland often used reindeer to pull their sledges around and this found its way into the poem. Reindeer, which are much sturdier animals than North American deer, are well adapted to cold climates with their heavy fur coats and broad, flat hooves for walking on snow.

Which brings us to Rudolph.

Almost as popular as Santa himself is his lead reindeer with a glowing red nose, Rudolph. Unlike Santa’s history, the story of Rudolph can be traced back to a specific author: Robert L. May. May was a copywriter for Montgomery Ward department stores in 1939. The company had been buying and giving away coloring books at Christmas time for many years. May’s boss thought they could save some money by printing their own books and asked May to come up with a story. May thought up the idea of a misfit reindeer who saves the day for Santa on a foggy Christmas Eve.

The story took off, but unfortunately May did not own the rights. His employer, Montgomery Ward, did.  Because May’s wife was terminally ill at the time, Montgomery Ward passed the rights on to May, virtually assuring his financial security.  May’s brother-in-law wrote a song about the reindeer, and in 1964, Rudolph got his own Christmas special.  He’s been a part of our Christmas celebrations ever since … and as the song says, he went down in history.

J.L. Mann (Bubba) Cromer is an Attorney in Columbia, whose practice focuses on DUI Defense, Criminal Defense & Probate Administration and Estate Planning. Admitted to practice in South Carolina, California & The District of Columbia, “Bubba” has been in practice for 26 years. In addition to his Solo Practice at Cromer Law Offices, LLC, Bubba Served as the only true Independent In the S.C. Legislature from 1990-1998. For the past 16 years, he has Served as the Reading Clerk of the House.Bubba resides in Columbia, S.C and Rosman, N.C. where he built a cabin 4 years ago. Bubba lives with his Hungarian Golden Retriever Casper. 

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