Here To Safeguard Your Best Interests

Issued A Citation By The South Carolina Department Of Natural Resources?

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has the power to issue citations that can result in hefty fines and the loss of certain privileges. If you’ve been issued a citation, our lawyers can help defend you against it. Whether you are facing a hunting violation, fishing violation or another type of citation, you can rely on our experienced attorneys at Jordan Law Firm for guidance.

Types Of DNR Citations

The DNR can issue many kinds of citations, each resulting in a range of consequences. South Carolina uses a points-based system for suspension of hunting or fishing privileges. The Game and Fish Point System applies to violations inland, while the Saltwater Point System applies to violations on the coast and its waterways.

Once you receive points, half of the points drop off for each year you do not accumulate additional points. If you receive 18 points, the DNR will suspend your privileges. Some offenses result in mandatory suspensions.

The chart below shows common violations and the resulting suspension. There are many others; these are just a few.

Letter Violation Description Suspension
A Hunting from a public road 1 year
B Unlawfully taking a wild turkey 1 year
C Conspiracy to violate natural resource laws 1 year
D Obtaining a license, permit, stamp or tag by fraud 1 year
E Altering, post-dating, borrowing or lending a license, permit, stamp or tag 1 year
F Criminal, negligent use of a firearm 1 to 5 years
G Boating under the influence 6 months to 5 years
H Trawling violations 1 year
I Killing a bald eagle 5 years
J Failure to pay fines or restitution Suspension until payment is received
K Negligent operation of a watercraft – 3rd offense 6 months
L Bear violations 3 years
M Impeding the right to hunt, fish or trap 1 year

 

Our lawyers can defend you against any type of DNR citation.

Your Rights When It Comes To DNR Charges

Whether you are charged with hunting without a license or WMA permit, night hunting, shining, trespass, hunting on a baited field, negligent hunting or any other charge, the state has to prove all elements of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt.

If you are notified of a suspension, you have the right to appeal. Appeals must be filed and served within 30 days. You should act quickly to enlist our help so we have time to fight the suspension.

Get A Staunch Advocate On Your Side

You can count on our team to stand up for your rights and privileges. We are familiar with all the nuances of South Carolina’s DNR citation process and the many ways to challenge a charge. To get started, reach out to our firm in Rock Hill online or by phone at 855-45 SCLAW (855-457-2529).