If you’ve been detained and arrested for a first-time DUI in Waldorf, MD, it can be unsettling, especially if you’ve never navigated the court system before. You may have concerns about losing your license, paying fines, or even spending time in jail. For help with a DUI charge, contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys at (301) 857-4771 to schedule a free consultation with a Waldorf 1st time DUI lawyer.
At Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys, our approach is to learn about your specific situation and explain what you’re facing so you know what to expect going forward. Feeling informed and supported can go a long way in reducing some of the stress that comes with these charges. By ensuring you understand your options, you’ll feel more prepared to address these charges in Waldorf, Maryland. You can get in touch with us.
How Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help if You’re Arrested for a 1st Time DUI
If you’re arrested for a 1st time DUI in Waldorf, MD, it’s important to talk to an experienced lawyer at Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys right away. Here’s how our team can help:
- We’ll examine the traffic stop and any field sobriety tests to determine if proper procedures were followed. If they weren’t, we could file a motion to suppress any illegally obtained evidence.
- Our team will review the accuracy and reliability of breathalyzer or blood test results used in your case. If there were any issues with them, we would challenge their validity in court.
- We can also negotiate plea deals with prosecutors to potentially reduce the charges against you or seek reduced sentencing, such as probation instead of jail time.
Our goal is to provide you with a strong defense and ensure you have the best chance of beating a criminal conviction. Reach out today to speak with a Waldorf 1st time DUI attorney.
Overview of 1st Time DUIs in Maryland
In Maryland, a BAC of 0.08 or higher typically results in a DUI charge, while a BAC of 0.05 could lead to a DWI if the officer notices signs of impairment. For a DUI conviction, the state must prove you drove (or tried to drive) with a BAC at or above 0.08 (or as low as 0.02 if you’re under 21).
In contrast, a DWI hinges on whether the officer believes you were impaired by alcohol or drugs, even if your BAC was below the DUI limit. By knowing these driving while impaired laws, you’ll have a clearer picture of what you’re up against if you’re arrested for a first-time DUI in Maryland.
What Are the Penalties for 1st Time DUIs in Waldorf, Maryland?
For a first DUI in Waldorf, Maryland, you can face up to a $1,000 fine, as much as one year in jail, 12 points on your driving record, and a potential six-month license revocation.
By comparison, a first DWI brings a maximum fine of $500, up to two months in jail, eight points on your license, and a six-month suspension. If you’re under 21, that suspension extends to a year. Knowing these possible consequences can help you prepare and make informed choices if you’re charged.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Arrested for a 1st Time DUI?
When you face a first-time DUI charge, it’s easy to feel uncertain about how to protect yourself. The good news is that there are several defenses you can explore. Below are some that may apply to your case:
- Unlawful Traffic Stop: If an officer stops you without a valid reason, that stop may violate your rights. An attorney can investigate whether there was a legitimate traffic infraction or suspicious driving behavior. If it turns out the officer had no proper grounds, the evidence gathered during the stop could be challenged and excluded from being used against you.
- Inaccurate Chemical Tests: Breathalyzers and blood tests can produce invalid results if they’re not administered correctly or properly calibrated. For example, residual alcohol in the mouth or certain medications can distort your BAC results. Your legal team can review maintenance logs, test records, and medical documents to find potential mistakes.
- Rising Blood Alcohol Defense: Your BAC can rise even after you’ve stopped driving because your body is still absorbing alcohol. If there was a delay between when you were pulled over and when you were tested, the reading might not reflect your level at the actual time of driving, meaning you weren’t under the influence at the time of operation.
Knowing your legal options can help you regain some sense of control after a DUI arrest. Each case is unique, so it’s essential to talk to an attorney who can walk you through which defenses apply to your situation.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With a Waldorf 1st Time DUI Lawyer
Facing DUI or DWI charges in Waldorf, Maryland, can leave you feeling uneasy about your future. Even if it’s your first offense, the punishments can still have a significant effect on your personal and professional life. Understanding your legal options can help you make choices that may lessen long-term outcomes.
By staying informed and seeking legal counsel, you have the best chance of obtaining a favorable outcome. For help with a 1st time DUI charge, contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free consultation with a Waldorf 1st time DUI lawyer.
