Maryland takes driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol very seriously. When an individual is arrested for a DWI or a DUI, the court will try to hold them accountable with the appropriate penalties. With that said, an experienced criminal defense attorney can look for defenses that may help reduce the penalties of the accused or even have the case dismissed. In Maryland, the penalties for driving under the influence are in correlation with the driver’s blood alcohol content.
If the individual had a blood alcohol content that was between 0.07 percent and 0.08 percent, they can face charges of a DWI. The consequences of a first DWI conviction include the following:
- A fine of up to $500
- Up to two months in jail
- Eight points on your driver’s license
- The possibility of a license suspension for six months
A second DWI conviction results in the following penalties:
- A fine of up to $500
- A maximum of 1 year in jail
- Eight points on your driver’s license
- The possibility of a license suspension for 9-12 months
A DUI charge is given to any driver that has a blood alcohol content that is 0.08 percent or greater. These penalties are more severe than those of a DWI and can include the following for a first offense:
- A fine of $1,000
- A maximum of one year in jail
- 12 points on your driver’s license
- The potential for up to 6 months of a license revocation
If you have been charged with a second DUI offense, the penalties are more severe and include the following:
- A fine of up to $2,000
- Jail time for a minimum of five days and a maximum of two years
- The possibility of a license revocation for one year
- 12 points on your driver’s license
If you have been found guilty of a third DUI, you can face up to 3 years in jail and a fine of up to $3,000.
Maryland takes driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol very seriously. When an individual is arrested for a DUI, the court will try to hold them accountable with the appropriate penalties. With that said, an experienced criminal defense attorney can look for defenses that may help reduce the penalties of the accused or even have the case dismissed. In Maryland, the penalties for driving under the influence are in correlation with the driver’s blood alcohol content.
If you have been charged with a DWI or a DUI in Maryland, contact us today.
The Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz has decades of experience representing clients in Howard County, Maryland who have been charged with a crime. If you are facing criminal charges, let our firm explore all possible defenses and fight to protect your future. Contact the Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz today to discuss your case.
