DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

Police officers in Maryland and surrounding areas on traffic duty keep their eyes peeled for anyone displaying the signs of intoxication behind the wheel. A police officer who witnesses a person swerving between lanes, braking erratically, or straddling the center of the lane may subject the driver to a breath test to see if he or she has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or above. A positive result will lead to a DUI arrest.

For many drivers, a DUI arrest is their first criminal charge. Besides a license suspension, a DUI can have many repercussions that affect daily life. If you face a DUI or DWI charge in Baltimore, you need experienced legal counsel on your case as soon as possible. If you are in need of a DUI attorney or DWI attorney in Baltimore, contact us today and get started with a free consultation.

DUI vs. DWI in Maryland

DUI (Driving Under the Influence): A DUI charge in Maryland applies if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. This charge comes with more severe penalties due to the higher level of impairment.

DWI (Driving While Impaired): A DWI charge applies if your BAC is between 0.04% and 0.07%. It may also be charged if the police believe you are impaired by drugs or alcohol, even if your BAC is below 0.08%. Although less severe than a DUI, a DWI still carries penalties and can result in license suspension or fines.

HOW A DUI CASE IN BALTIMORE, MARYLAND CAN IMPACT YOUR LIFE

A DUI is a serious offense that can hurt your reputation and limit your prospects. Even if you are never convicted of the crime, having a DUI on your record could limit future employment opportunities. A person who has never been through the criminal justice system stands to face many challenges during a court case. With a Baltimore DUI lawyer on your case, you can rest assured they’ll do what it takes to fight the accusation and help you maintain a clean driving record. A DUI/DWI lawyer will fight the license suspension in court and work to keep the DUI charge off your criminal record.

PENALTIES FOR A FIRST DUI CONVICTION IN MARYLAND

All it takes is a BAC of 0.08% to be arrested for DUI in Maryland; however, a person with a BAC of 0.05% could also face charges if he or she displays signs of impairment. A first-time DUI may lead to:

• Up to one (1) year in jail
• A fine of up to $1,000
• License suspension of 180-270 days

If a minor was in the vehicle at the time of the DUI stop, the period of incarceration and fine double.

SECOND DUI CONVICTION PENALTIES IN MARYLAND

Penalties for a second DUI in Maryland are even more severe. A second DUI conviction may lead to:

• Up to two (2) years in jail
• A fine of up to $2,000
• License suspension of 180-270 days

The above penalties increase to three (3) years in jail and a fine of $3,000 if a minor was found in the car at the time of the second DUI stop.

A Maryland driver on his second DUI within a five-year period faces a mandatory jail sentence of five (5) days. Drivers with two or more alcohol-related charges within five years must also complete a mandatory alcohol abuse assessment and participate in an alcohol abuse program mandated by the state of Maryland. By hiring a lawyer for DUI defense, it may be possible to reduce or eliminate the charges against you or penalties you face. Contact our DUI attorney in Baltimore today to schedule a free case review to discuss your case further. 

CALL AN EXPERIENCED BALTIMORE DUI ATTORNEY AND DWI DEFENSE ATTORNEY FOR HELP

A first DUI offense in Maryland can bring harsh penalties and create a criminal record that can be difficult to clear. By the time of a second DUI, the consequences become even more severe due to your prior conviction. You don’t have to face the justice system alone. An experienced Baltimore DUI lawyer can intervene early, even before charges are officially filed, to take crucial steps that may positively impact your case.

Don’t let one mistake derail your life. DUI/DWI attorney Hillel Traub is a skilled traffic offense lawyer with a strong background as a former Attorney General for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration. At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we’ll fight vigorously for your rights in court, help you retain your driving privileges, and work to protect your reputation. With over 20 years of experience serving Baltimore and the surrounding areas, Hillel Traub is here to help. Call 410-580-1100 for a free consultation or reach out through our online contact form.

Frequently Asked Questions about Maryland DUI/DWI

What is the legal BAC limit in Maryland?
In Maryland, the legal BAC limit for drivers 21 years and older is 0.08% for a DUI charge. A DWI can be charged for a BAC between 0.04% and 0.07%.

What are the penalties for a first-time DUI in Maryland?
A first-time DUI can result in up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and a license suspension of six months.

Can I refuse a breathalyzer test in Maryland?
Yes, but refusing a breathalyzer test can result in automatic penalties, including a license suspension of 120 days for a first offense and longer for subsequent refusals.

What happens if I’m caught driving with a suspended license due to a DUI?
Driving with a suspended license after a DUI conviction can lead to additional penalties, including fines, jail time, and an extension of your suspension period.

Can a DUI/DWI charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes, with the help of an experienced attorney, it is possible to challenge the evidence, negotiate for a reduced charge, or even have the case dismissed under certain circumstances.

How long does a DUI/DWI stay on my record in Maryland?
A DUI/DWI conviction can remain on your driving record for several years, and points from the violation may stay on your record for two years.

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