Maryland DUI Lawyer

Maryland law distinguishes between several types of DUI offenses under the Transportation Code, each carrying different penalties. These offenses include:

• Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (DUI): A BAC of .08% or higher.
• Driving While Impaired by Alcohol (DWI): Driving ability is impaired by alcohol, but BAC is below .08%.
• DUI/DWI with a Minor Passenger: Increases penalties if a minor is in the vehicle.
• Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Combination of Drugs and Alcohol: This includes impairment from drugs, which may include prescription or illicit substances.

A conviction for DUI in Maryland carries severe penalties. For a first-time offense, you could face up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and 12 points on your driving record. For a second offense, penalties double, with up to two years in jail and a $2,000 fine. Subsequent offenses carry even harsher penalties.

In cases where DUI leads to serious injury or death, the charges may be upgraded to felony offenses, which require more intense legal defense. Additionally, a DUI conviction can result in license suspension by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), and failure to request a hearing within ten days of arrest can result in an automatic suspension.

While less severe than DUI, a DWI conviction still carries significant consequences. First-time DWI charges can result in up to two months in prison and a $500 fine, as well as points on your driving record. Subsequent offenses result in harsher penalties, including extended jail time and higher fines.

Facing DUI charges in Maryland can be overwhelming, but with the right legal representation, you can navigate the complexities of the legal system with confidence. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive guidance throughout your case. We’ll help you understand what to expect, evaluate evidence, and develop a defense strategy that minimizes the potential consequences.

From representing you in MVA hearings to providing a strong defense in court, our goal is to reduce the impact a DUI charge has on your life. We’ll take every step necessary to protect your rights, including challenging the evidence and questioning the procedures followed during your arrest.

We have offices conveniently located throughout Maryland, offering legal representation wherever you are. Whether you’re in a bustling urban area or a quieter suburban neighborhood, we are here to support you. Our key service areas include:

• Montgomery County: This region, home to some of the busiest roads in Maryland, includes communities like Rockville, Silver Spring, Bethesda, and Gaithersburg. Commuters regularly face heavy traffic, making DUI enforcement a priority. If you are arrested in Montgomery County, your case will likely be heard at the district court in Rockville.
• Howard County: Strategically located between Washington D.C. and Baltimore, Howard County sees frequent travel on major routes such as I-95. Towns like Ellicott City, Columbia, and Glenwood experience heavy commuter traffic. DUI cases here are typically handled at the courthouse in Ellicott City.
• Prince George’s County: This county, home to both the University of Maryland and the Washington Redskins, sees a high volume of DUI arrests. Suburbs like Bowie, Greenbelt, and Laurel are also bustling with daily traffic. DUI cases in Prince George’s County are heard in district courts located in Hyattsville or Upper Marlboro.
• Baltimore: Both a city and a county, Baltimore is known for its high traffic volume, especially around the Beltway and the city itself. Whether attending an Orioles game or navigating busy streets, DUI arrests are common. Your case will likely be heard in Baltimore City or County courts, where our team will work hard to defend you.
• Other Areas: We also serve clients in Anne Arundel, Frederick County, and many other locations across Maryland. No matter where you are in the state, our team is prepared to provide knowledgeable and dedicated defense services.