Were you arrested for DUI in Calvert County, Maryland? The stakes are high for defendants—your license, job, and even your freedom could be at risk. At Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys, our team shares 125 years of combined experience fighting for clients just like you.
We’ve spent decades pushing back against harsh charges in Maryland courtrooms and know how to challenge every part of a DUI case. When you need help with a case in Calvert County, Maryland, we’re here for you. Contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys at (301) 262-7005 to schedule a free consultation with a Calvert County DUI lawyer.
Why Hire Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys If You’re Arrested for DUI in Calvert County, MD?
If you’re arrested for DUI in Calvert County, MD, having the right lawyer on your side can make all the difference between moving forward and facing lasting consequences.
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys stands out for the following reasons:
- We’ve been named the best DUI defense in Maryland.
- Founding attorney Andrew Alpert is the only board-certified DUI defense lawyer in the state, bringing nationally recognized expertise to your defense.
- Our team includes former prosecutors, so we know the tactics law enforcement and the prosecution may use and how to fight back against them.
When you’re facing charges in Calvert County, Maryland, you need to put your case in the hands of a lawyer who really knows what they’re doing. Contact our criminal defense lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
Overview of DUI in Maryland
Driving under the influence laws in Maryland are strict and cover many different types of intoxication.
Driving Under the Influence
This is the most serious drunk driving charge in Maryland and applies if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08 or above. This level is considered “per se” intoxication, meaning you can be convicted even if you aren’t outwardly showing signs of intoxication or driving unsafely.
Driving While Impaired (DWI)
Under Maryland law, a DWI is less severe than a DUI and occurs when a driver has a BAC of .07. In these situations, a person is presumed to be impaired.
Drug Impairment
Maryland law also makes it illegal to drive while impaired by drugs, whether they’re prescription, over-the-counter, or illegal substances. You can also be charged if you’re under the influence of both drugs and alcohol to the extent that your ability to drive safely is affected.
Zero Tolerance for Drivers Under 21
Maryland enforces a zero-tolerance policy for young drivers. If you’re under 21, any amount of alcohol detected in your system while driving can result in criminal charges.
Maryland takes DUI and cases of impaired driving extremely seriously, and a conviction can mean serious penalties.
What Are the Penalties For DUI in Calvert County, Maryland?
The penalties for a DUI or DWI conviction in Calvert County, Maryland, are serious and can affect many parts of your life. The severity of the punishment depends on your offense history and whether you were charged with DUI or DWI.
DUI First Offense
If you’re found guilty of DUI for the first time, the maximum punishment could include a fine up to $1,000, jail time up to 1 year, and 12 points on your driving record. Your license can also be revoked for up to 6 months.
DUI Second Offense
A second DUI makes things even worse, with fines up to $2,000 and as much as 2 years in jail. Another 12 points will be added to your driving record, and your license could be revoked for up to 1 year.
Two DUI Convictions Within 5 Years
If you get convicted for DUI twice in a 5-year span, you’ll face automatic license suspension and must enroll in Maryland’s Ignition Interlock Program. The court will likely require an alcohol abuse evaluation and possible treatment as well due to your criminal history.
DWI First Offense
A DWI is considered less severe than a DUI, but a first offense still risks a fine up to $500 and 2 months of jail time. You’ll also receive 8 points on your license and a suspension of up to 6 months. If you’re under 21, your license may be suspended for a full year.
DWI Second Offense
Repeat DWI offenders face up to $500 in fines and up to 1 year in jail, with 8 new points on the driving record. The license suspension is increased to 9 to 12 months or 2 years if you’re under 21.
The penalties for impaired driving are harsh, making it essential to speak with a defense lawyer right away if you’re facing charges.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested For DUI?
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Maryland, it can feel as if you’re out of options, but arrests don’t always mean you’re guilty. There are ways your lawyer might challenge the case, depending on what really happened and how the evidence was handled.
- Unlawful Traffic Stop: Police need a real reason to pull someone over before a DUI investigation starts. If they didn’t see a traffic violation or have true suspicion, anything found or the results of any test given after the stop might be thrown out.
- Improper Breath or Blood Test: It’s possible for breathalyzers or blood alcohol content tests to be wrong. The testing device might not have been properly calibrated, or the officer could have skipped important steps. Those errors could mean the results can’t be used against you.
- Medical or Health Conditions: Certain illnesses or regular prescriptions can make someone seem drunk or even cause “false positive” test results. Diabetes, acid reflux, and some diets or medications sometimes mimic signs of intoxication.
- No Actual Driving: You can only be convicted if you were actually driving (or at least controlling a vehicle). If you were only sleeping in your car or not behind the wheel, and your lawyer can prove it, that could lead to a not guilty verdict.
Make sure you’re honest with your lawyer so they can create the strongest defense possible for your case.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Calvert County DUI Lawyers
A DUI doesn’t have to define your future, and you never have to go through this situation alone. Our team is ready to investigate thoroughly and fight for the best possible resolution, no matter how challenging your case may seem. Let us handle the legal details while you focus on moving forward. Contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free consultation with a Calvert County DUI attorney.
