Being charged with felony DUI in Frederick, Maryland, isn’t something anyone wants to or expects to deal with. The stakes in these cases are exceptionally high for defendants, bringing the real possibility of jail time, long-term license loss, harsh fines, and a criminal record that’s going to follow you around for years to come.
Navigating Maryland’s complex driving under the influence laws and local court systems on your own or without the right lawyer can leave you feeling overwhelmed and powerless. Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys is here to help.
Contact us today at (301) 381-1993 to schedule a free case evaluation with a Frederick felony DUI lawyer.
Why Hire Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys If You’re Arrested for a Felony DUI in Frederick, MD?
When you’re facing a felony DUI in Frederick, MD, the attorney you choose can make the difference between freedom and life-altering consequences. Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys have set the standard in Maryland for proven advocacy and personalized criminal defense.
Here’s why you should choose our Frederick criminal defense lawyers to defend you:
- 125 years of combined legal experience
- Andrew Alpert is the only board-certified DUI defense attorney in Maryland, putting unparalleled DUI defense skill and experience on your side
- Our firm includes former prosecutors who know the local justice system from both sides, giving you the unique insight necessary to challenge the state’s strategy
- We’ve gained the trust of the community, reflected in over 400 five-star Google reviews
If you’re accused of a felony DUI in Maryland, don’t assume you have no way to fight back. Reach out to our firm today to schedule a free case evaluation and learn more about your options.
Overview of Felony DUI in Maryland
While most DUI cases in Maryland are treated as misdemeanors, some situations bring much steeper consequences. Maryland law generally doesn’t increase DUI charges to felonies, even for repeat offenses. However, certain factors can quickly intensify DUI charges and lead them to be sentence similar to felonies.
Aggravating circumstances—including driving with a child in the car, having multiple DUI convictions, or testing at an especially high blood alcohol level—can lead to increased penalties.
True Felony DUI – Death or Injury Cases
A DUI officially becomes a felony in Maryland when someone’s impaired driving leads to another person’s death. In these tragic situations, prosecutors may charge the defendant with felony vehicular manslaughter or homicide by motor vehicle while under the influence.
What Are the Penalties for a Felony DUI Conviction in Frederick, Maryland?
Maryland takes DUI laws seriously, and the penalties increase steeply when aggravating factors are involved. Anyone facing a felony DUI or the enhanced penalties of a misdemeanor DUI must understand what’s at stake.
Standard DUI Penalties
A first conviction for DUI in Maryland is typically classified as a misdemeanor. The penalty can include up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine, alongside points on your license and possible driving restrictions. This is charged as a misdemeanor.
Enhanced Penalties for Aggravated DUIs
If you have prior DUI convictions, a high blood alcohol concentration, a minor passenger, or your accident causes an injury, Maryland imposes enhanced penalties. A second offense can bring up to two years behind bars, while a third offense might mean up to three years.
Fines increase, as does the length of license suspensions (from 120 days to a year or more), and use of an ignition interlock device is usually mandatory. These cases often have harsher minimum sentencing rules attached.
Felony Penalties for DUI Causing Death
When driving under the influence results in someone else’s death, the consequences are much more severe and rise to the level of a felony. Convictions for vehicular manslaughter while impaired can mean up to five years in prison and $5,000 in fines, or even heavier penalties if additional aggravating circumstances apply.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested For Felony DUI?
If you’re facing felony DUI charges in Frederick, a strong defense can protect your rights and your future.
Here are common strategies our Frederick criminal defense attorneys often consider raising:
- Illegal Traffic Stop: If law enforcement pulled you over without reasonable suspicion or ignored your rights, essential evidence might be excluded from your case through a motion to suppress.
- Faulty Breathalyzer or Blood Test: Inaccurate testing equipment, improper calibration, or mishandled blood samples could call BAC results into question and cast doubt on claims of intoxication.
- No Evidence of Impairment: Sometimes, a police officer’s interpretation of your behavior is misleading or not supported by camera footage, medical records, or other independent evidence.
Every DUI case is unique, and it’s important that you get the opportunity to effectively present your side of the story.
Call Today to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With a Frederick Felony DUI Attorney
A felony DUI charge is not the end of your story, but without experienced and aggressive legal help, you could find yourself facing serious lifelong consequences. Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys stands by you to challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and explore every angle for reducing charges or disputing them at trial.
Don’t risk your freedom and reputation by choosing the wrong legal team. Contact our firm today to schedule a free case consultation with a Frederick felony DUI lawyer.