Maryland takes DUIs very seriously. As a result, there are harsh penalties levied for a DUI conviction, whether it is your first one or your third. Working with an attorney is essential to minimize the damages that you experience. What types of restrictions might be placed on your ability to drive in the state after your conviction?
DUIs in Maryland
Every year in Maryland, there are many accidents involving people who are driving under the influence. Sadly, in the past five years alone, almost 800 people have been killed in these accidents—approximately one-third of all fatalities related to car accidents in the state. Maryland takes driving while intoxicated very seriously, and there are special checkpoints and patrols throughout the roadways. The State Police Impaired Driving Reduction Effort troopers specifically focus on impaired driving, and they have taken over 4,000 impaired drivers off of the streets in the past decade.
What Happens If You’re Convicted?
If you receive a DUI conviction, you will be dealing with criminal penalties and additional sanctions on your license. The penalties that you deal with will depend on how many (if any) convictions you’ve had before. Your criminal penalties can include:
- First-Time Offenders: You will receive a fine of up to $1,000 and up to one year in jail.
- Second-Time Offenders: You will face up to a $2,000 fine and up to two years in jail.
Your driving penalties will include:
- First-Time Offenders: 12 points will be added to your driving record and you may have your license revoked for up to six months.
- Second-Time Offenders: 12 points will be added to your driving record and you may have your license taken away for up to a year.
If you have two convictions in a five-year period, there is a mandatory one-year period that your license will be suspended. Additionally, you will have to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program. In some cases, you may be offered the opportunity to opt into the Ignition Interlock Program for a year instead of having your license suspended and your ability to drive taken away.
Why an Attorney Is So Important
While there are serious consequences for any DUI conviction in Maryland, working with an attorney can help minimize the most serious impacts on your life, like license suspension and jail time. Your attorney will work on your behalf and help ensure that your one-time mistake does not permanently harm your career or life.
Contact Mobley & Brown, LLP for Help With Your DUI Case
If you have experienced a DUI charge, 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.
