The driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) laws are different in each state. Drunk driving laws in Maryland are strict, and driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol can lead to severe consequences. Once arrested, if found guilty you will face jail time, fines, probation, and other penalties such as suspension of your driver’s license.
If you’ve been arrested for drunk driving, there are some important things that you should be aware of.
The breathalyzer test
When you are asked to blow in to a breathalyzer at the police station and the result is .08 or higher, or if you refuse to take the test, then the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration may suspend your driver’s license. You will be given the breath test within two hours of your arrest and you may consult an attorney during this time. A police officer will confiscate your driver’s license and issue you a temporary license. You must submit a hearing request within 10 days of the confiscation of your driver’s license in order to get a temporary permit that lets you drive until the hearing.
Initial hearings are at the district courts
In Maryland, all DUI and DWI cases are initially heard in the district court for the county where you have been apprehended. Most counties in Maryland require the subject to appear in front of a commissioner, who advises them on their right to counsel and may also give them a court date through the mail.
Imprisonment and fines
In all DUI cases, the driver’s license is suspended. On the first offence, you can also receive a sentence of one year incarceration, a $1,000 fine, and 12 points on your driving record. On a second DUI, you can go to jail for as long as 2 years and will pay $2,000 in fines as well. On the third conviction, you get sentenced to up to 3 years in jail and pay $3,000 in fines. Under Maryland’s drunk driving laws, drivers under 21 will have their driving privilege revoked for six months.
Are you in Jail? Call us to arrange your bail bond!
If you go to jail, the first thing to do is call a lawyer and arrange a bail bond so you can be with your family at home. A DUI lawyer such as Drew Cochran will sort things out for you with the law. They have several years of experience dealing with the courts and the police, and are able to make a bargain in your favor.
First time offenders can get a PBJ
If you have never been in trouble before and are caught driving drunk, you may get Probation Before Judgment (PJB). In this case, you will not receive a conviction after your probationary term is completed, there is no imposition of driving points and the offence will not show on your driving record. You can also get a PBJ if there are no convictions of drunk driving showing on your records for the past ten years.
Getting counseling before going to court helps
Before going to court it is a good idea to see a court-approved councilor who can report to the court your willingness to abandon drinking and/or taking drugs. The Judge will appreciate your efforts to curb the habits that placed you in handcuffs, and is more likely to impose a lighter sentence.
