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Maryland’s Ignition Interlock Program is a crucial tool the state uses to help combat drunk driving. It prevents individuals who have been convicted of alcohol-related driving offenses from operating their vehicles while under the influence. This program mandates the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in the vehicles of certain offenders, which forces them to pass a breathalyzer test before the vehicle can start. What should you know about the program and how it works?

What Is an Ignition Interlock Device?

An ignition interlock device is essentially a breathalyzer connected to a vehicle’s ignition system. The driver must blow into the device, and if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is above a pre-set limit, the vehicle will not start. The IID is part of Maryland’s Ignition Interlock Program, which is overseen by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA).

Who Participates in the Ignition Interlock Program?

All convicted drivers are not necessarily eligible to participate in Maryland’s Ignition Interlock Program. However, you may be required to participate in circumstances like:

1. Being Convicted of Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Individuals convicted of a DUI offense are often required to install an IID.
2. Refusal to Take a Breathalyzer Test: Those who refuse to take a breathalyzer test when pulled over by law enforcement may also be required to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program.
3. High BAC Levels: Drivers with exceptionally high BAC levels at the time of arrest may be required to participate in this program.
4. Repeat Offenders: Individuals with multiple alcohol-related offenses are typically asked to install an IID.

How Long Do You Need to Participate?

How long you’ll be required to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program will vary depending on the severity of the offense and whether it is a repeat offense. The required period can range anywhere from six months to several years. The court or MVA will tell you the required duration when mandating the IID installation, and your attorney can explain any additional details that you may not understand.

How Do They Confirm Compliance?

Participants in Maryland’s Ignition Interlock Program are subject to strict compliance and monitoring protocols. The IID records data every time you try to start the vehicle, and the information that it transmits will be regularly reviewed by the MVA and/or the court. Any violations, such as attempting to start the vehicle with a BAC above the allowed limit or tampering with the device, can result in serious penalties, including extended participation in the program or additional legal consequences.

Contact Mobley & Brown, LLP for Help With Your DUI Defense Law Needs

If you are involved in a DWI or DUI case in Maryland, you need the right legal assistance. Our experienced legal team is looking forward to working with you to meet your needs. Call us now at (410) 385-0398.

Assault is a serious criminal offense that can have serious legal consequences if you are convicted. If you are facing charges for assault in Maryland, it’s important to understand what the state considers assault. In Maryland, assault is broken down into different degrees, each of which has specific definitions and penalties. What should you know about the definitions of assault in Maryland?

What Is Assault?

In the broadest terms, assault in Maryland is defined as causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another person. Notably, assault also includes acts that create a reasonable fear of imminent bodily harm. This means that you don’t necessarily have to ever make physical contact with someone to be charged and convicted of assault. There are two main types of assault in the state, which are known as first-degree and second-degree assault.

First-Degree Assault in Maryland

First-degree assault is the more serious charge of the two, and it involves intentionally causing or attempting to cause serious physical injury to another person. It also covers assaults committed with a firearm, regardless of whether a serious injury occurs. Under Maryland law, serious physical injury is defined as an injury that creates a severe risk of death or that causes permanent or serious disfigurement, loss, or impairment of a body part.

If you are convicted of first-degree assault in Maryland, it is considered a felony, and you can face up to 25 years in prison. Because first-degree assault is such a serious charge that carries lifelong consequences, it is crucial to have an experienced attorney to navigate the complexities of the legal system.

Second-Degree Assault in Maryland

Second-degree assault covers a broader range of things than first-degree assault, and it includes unlawful physical contact and acts intended to cause fear of imminent harm. Unlike first-degree assault, second-degree assault does not require the intent to cause serious physical injury or the use of a firearm.

Second-degree assault is a misdemeanor charge, so it is less severe than first-degree assault. It carries a penalty of fines of up to $2,500 and up to 10 years in prison. It is important to note that second-degree assault can be increased to a felony charge if you assault specific protected individuals, like police officers.

Why Legal Representation Is So Important

If you are facing charges for assault in Maryland, it can be a terrifying experience. If you are convicted of a felony or even a misdemeanor, it can impact your personal life, your employment opportunities, and your freedom. It is essential to seek legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the nuances of Maryland’s assault laws, like Mobley & Brown, LLP. An attorney can provide you with critical guidance, protect your rights, and develop a defense strategy that is tailored to your case.

Contact Mobley & Brown, LLP for Help With Your Criminal Defense Law Needs

If you are involved in either side of an assault case in Maryland, you need the right legal assistance. Our experienced legal team is looking forward to working with you to meet your needs. Call us now at (410) 385-0398.