No matter where you go in the United States, it is a serious matter to be charged with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Maryland is no different. The state will prosecute those who operate a motor vehicle while under the influence or intoxicated, to the fullest extent of the law. It is important that you contact an experienced DUI lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing charges of driving under the influence. The following are some questions you may have:
What are the consequences of a second DUI in Maryland?
In the state of Maryland, there are two categories of drunk driving crimes. If you had a blood alcohol content between 0.07 and 0.08 percent, you will be administered a Driving While Intoxicated charge. If you had a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher, you will likely be administered a Driving Under the Influence charge. That being said, the consequences of a second DUI conviction are as follows:
- A fine of up to $2,000
- Jail time for a minimum of five days and a maximum of two years
- 12 points on your driver’s license
If you were transporting a minor passenger, you may face the following additional penalties:
- A fine of up to $3,000
- Jail time for a maximum of three years
How serious is a second DUI in Maryland?
It is vital that you are aware that if you have multiple DUI convictions within a five-year period, you will also be subjected to a mandatory license suspension, participation in the Ignition Interlock Program and participation in an alcohol abuse assessment program. A second offense generally results in a maximum nine-month driver’s license suspension, but the suspension period may be longer if the driver refused to submit to testing in violation of the state’s implied consent laws.
How can you fight a second DUI?
First of all, you should know that you can’t effectively fight a DUI without the help of a skilled Maryland criminal defense lawyer by your side. In the United States, all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. That means that you and your lawyer may be able to disprove the results of a breathalyzer or a field sobriety test. At every step of this process, our firm is here to help you fight your charges.
Contact our Firm
The Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz has decades of experience representing clients in Howard County and Anne Arundel 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. We also represent individuals who have been injured by the negligence of another party. Contact the Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz today to discuss your case.
