DUI Law in Maryland
What is a DUI?
Are you grappling with the financial and legal fallout of a DUI in ?
Driving under the influence (DUI), often referred to as driving while intoxicated (DWI), involves operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. It’s a criminal offense with serious repercussions. A DUI conviction can lead to penalties that include fines, license suspension, or even jail time. Navigating the court process, whether you’re fighting for exoneration or facing conviction, can be a life-changing experience.
Below, we outline the potential consequences and defense options under Maryland DUI law. After reviewing, consider contacting a skilled local attorney to guide you through this challenging process. Taking swift action is key to protecting your rights and your future.
Possible Consequences of a Maryland DUI Conviction
The penalties for a DUI depend on where the offense occurred, the severity of the situation, and whether you have prior convictions. Regular offenses or incidents involving injuries or property damage typically result in harsher consequences.
If this is your first DUI offense, handling the case on your own could lead to costly mistakes. Partnering with a knowledgeable law firm ensures your rights are protected and provides you with the best chance of minimizing penalties. Below are some potential fines and penalties you could face following a DUI arrest.
Paying Fines
If convicted of a DUI in , financial penalties are guaranteed. In Maryland, fines for a DUI range from up to $1,000 for a first offense to $3,000 for a third offense.
However, other factors can drastically increase the amount you must pay, including:
- Any damage to property while driving under the influence
- If someone suffered injuries as a result of your intoxicated driving
- Cases that include child endangerment
- Any court costs associated with your case
Jail Time
Jail time is a potential consequence for DUI convictions in many states, including Maryland. For first-time offenders, jail time might only last a day or two. However, penalties escalate for repeat offenses.
In Maryland, the Department of Transportation imposes increasing jail sentences for DUIs within a five-year look-back period. A first offense can lead to up to one year in jail and a six-month license revocation. A second offense doubles these penalties, including a mandatory minimum of five days in jail.
Probation
If jail time is not part of your sentencing, probation is often required. Judges determine the duration of probation, during which you’ll need to pay monthly fees and follow strict conditions, such as avoiding alcohol and staying out of further legal trouble. Violating these terms could result in additional sanctions or jail time.
For individuals with two DUI convictions within five years, Maryland law mandates a license suspension followed by enrollment in the Ignition Interlock Program. Participants may also need to undergo alcohol abuse assessments and treatment. Failing to comply with probation requirements can lead to penalties, including incarceration.
Drug and Alcohol Education Program
After a DUI conviction in , state law typically requires participation in a drug and alcohol education program. These programs are designed to educate individuals about the dangers of impaired driving and help prevent future offenses. Completing these courses comes with additional costs, adding to your overall financial burden.
As part of the program, you’ll undergo an evaluation where a professional will assess the impact of drugs or alcohol on your life. If dependency is identified, you may need to complete a substance abuse treatment program before regaining your license.
Suspension or Loss of License
License suspension is a common penalty for DUI convictions. In Maryland, a first offense can result in a suspension lasting several months, while repeat offenders face significantly longer revocation periods.
For those with conditional licenses, additional violations, such as driving with any alcohol in your system, can lead to even harsher penalties, including extended suspension periods. Multiple offenses may result in permanent license revocation.
What Should You Do When Charged With a DUI in Maryland?
If you’re facing a felony DUI charge, you must take the following steps to protect yourself:
Step 1: Contact an Attorney Familiar With Maryland DUI Law
After a DUI arrest in , contacting an experienced attorney should be your top priority. A skilled lawyer can help prepare your defense, guide you through arraignment, and work to minimize the consequences you face.
Step 2: Learn About Your State’s DUI Laws
DUI laws vary across states, including penalties, suspension durations, and mandatory programs. An attorney can help you understand the charges you face and the potential outcomes based on your specific case.
Step 3: Request a DMV Hearing
In Maryland, you can request a hearing with the Motor Vehicle Administration to contest a license suspension. To do so, you must submit a written request within 10 days of the traffic stop and pay a $150 fee. Failing to act within this timeframe means the suspension will begin automatically on the 46th day after the traffic stop.
Step 4: Prepare for Court Appearance
With your attorney, you’ll prepare for your arraignment and court appearance. If you plead “not guilty,” your attorney will represent you before a judge and jury to argue your case.
Step 5: Receive Sentencing or Exoneration
After your trial, the court will determine whether you are guilty or not guilty. If found not guilty, you will walk free. If convicted, sentencing will follow, which could include fines, probation, or incarceration. Having an experienced attorney is crucial for navigating this critical stage effectively.
Work with an Experienced Local DUI Lawyer in Maryland
Should you ever find yourself charged with a DUI, you need to work with an experienced Maryland lawyer who can stand up for you in court. You cannot clear your name of the charges or reduce the consequences without help. Your life and future depend on having great legal representation during your DUI case. Contact an attorney near you in Maryland today. We can even help you connect with legal help across Maryland state lines.
Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!
About the Author
Aaron is a professional legal writer with a B.S. in English Education from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. He has written, published, and edited thousands of legal articles for RequestLegalHelp, which has connected over 5 million people to legal help in the United States.
With over five years of experience writing thousands of legal articles for law firms across the U.S. and Canada, Aaron specializes in covering federal, state, and city-level legal issues ranging from auto accidents to wrongful terminations.
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