In Maryland, a first-time DUI is typically a serious charge that can lead to both administrative and criminal penalties.

After being charged, you may face:

• Court proceedings: You will likely need to appear in court to address the charges against you. Penalties can include fines, jail time, and probation.
• Driver’s license consequences: The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) may suspend your license if you fail or refuse a breathalyzer test. You have the right to request an administrative hearing to review the suspension.
• Alcohol education or treatment: The court may order you to complete an alcohol education or treatment program.
• Increased insurance rates: A DUI conviction often results in higher car insurance premiums.

An experienced DUI defense attorney in Lanham can help you navigate the process and potentially reduce any penalties.

Your driver’s license could be suspended after a DUI charge in Maryland. For example, if a police officer pulls you over and your BAC is .08 or above (or you refuse to take the test), the State of Maryland will suspend your license. You will receive a temporary paper license that is valid for 45 days. The suspension begins on day 46.

However, you have the right to request a hearing within 30 days. The MVA will consider only limited facts, such as whether law enforcement had reasonable grounds to believe you were driving under the influence.

If the administrative law judge finds that you were properly pulled over, warned of potential penalties, and failed (or refused to take) the test, they will likely suspend your driving privileges.

You may be eligible to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program under certain circumstances. This would allow you to continue driving if your vehicle is equipped with an ignition interlock device, which measures a driver’s alcohol concentration.

DUI probation in Maryland typically lasts between one to three years, depending on the severity of the offense and the court’s ruling. However, each case is unique.

During probation, you may be required to:

• Abstain from alcohol and drugs
• Attend alcohol education or treatment programs
• Avoid additional criminal charges
• Submit to random testing
• Complete community service hours

Violating probation terms can lead to additional penalties, including jail time. An attorney can help you understand and comply with the terms of your DUI probation.

While it’s possible to represent yourself in a DUI case, it’s not advisable. DUI laws in Maryland are complex, and the consequences of a conviction can be severe.

With legal representation, you significantly increase your chance of a successful outcome.

When you hire a defense lawyer, you have a knowledgeable advocate to examine the evidence against you, negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges, and represent you in court. They’ll be with you at every step to protect your rights and minimize the impact of a DUI charge.