When it comes to driving under the influence (DUI) offense, Maryland law can be harsh. Repeat offenders will often receive the maximum penalty allowed. This is especially true if it is your third or more DUI offense. In Maryland, a repeat offender is any driver who has been convicted of a DUI offense within the five-year look-back period. This means that if you already have a DUI conviction on your record from less than five years ago and you are convicted again for DUI, you will be considered a repeat offender. You can expect the following penalties to apply:
THIRD DUI OFFENSE
The penalties for a third DUI offense can include:
- Up to 3 years in prison
- A fine of up to $3,000
- 12 points on your driver’s license which may result in a revocation
Additionally, a repeat DUI may lead to minimum jail terms, installation of an ignition interlock device, drug and alcohol counseling or treatment and a substantial increase in your car insurance premiums.
FOURTH, FIFTH, ETC. DUI OFFENSES
If you are arrested 4, 5, or more times for a DUI offense, the penalty is the same as it would be for a third arrest. Conviction rates tend to go up as the number of DUI arrests increases. The chances that you will receive the highest possible penalty upon conviction are greater with each subsequent offense. In addition, if you are arrested for a fifth DUI offense, it is likely that you are also driving without a license which carries its own penalties.
HIGH STAKES
For repeat offenders, there is obviously a lot more at stake when facing a DUI arrest. Points will definitely be added to your driver’s license, and there’s a good chance your license will be revoked entirely. In addition, your car insurance premiums will skyrocket, and there’s also more at stake when it comes to future career possibilities.
YOU NEED AN EXPERIENCED DUI ATTORNEY.
If you’ve been arrested for your third DUI, it is extremely important that you contact an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible. The attorneys at Alpert Schreyer, will work hard to get you the best possible outcome. Contact us online or call us at (301) 494-9620 for a free consultation.