Bel Air DUI Defense Lawyer

Baltimore Crimianl Defense Lawyers

Drinking and driving are not illegal, but drinking too much and driving is illegal. If you’ve been charged with DUI, contact the Bel Air, Maryland DUI lawyer Randolph Rice today for immediate legal help and representation.

Attorney Randolph Rice has represented thousands of clients charged with driving while under the influence and driving while impaired. Let his experience in the Courtroom go to work for you.

Contact attorney Randolph Rice at (410) 431-0911 to schedule a free DUI consultation today! Click here to find your DUI case on Maryland Judiciary Case Search.

best dui attorney near me

Finding the Best Bel Air DUI Lawyer

DUI is one of the most common offenses in Bel Air Maryland. According to the Maryland Judiciary, in 2015 there were 882 DUI cases in Harford County. Harford County, with a population of 244,826 in 2010, saw a significant number of DUI arrests per capita compared to other jurisdictions.

Finding the best bel air DUI lawyer may be tough, with so many choices. Clients that choose attorney Randolph Rice find that he is always there to fight for their rights and protect their freedom in court.

Bel Air DUI Lawyer

Bel Air DUI Lawyer FAQ

When choosing a Bel Air DUI lawyer, one should look for experience in the Courtroom. Mr. Rice has tried cases in both the District Court for Harford County and the Circuit Court for Harford County. He strives to protect his client’s privilege to drive and freedom, always considering collateral consequences in each DUI case.

What is DUI in Bel Air, Maryland?

DUI is the abbreviation for “driving while under the influence.” Whereas DWI stands for “driving while impaired.” One can be charged with both DUI and DWI at the same time in the event the State cannot prove the more serious DUI. They can always argue that the driver was impaired at the time of the stop.

A DUI case starts in the District Court for Harford County. If a driver is charged with DUI or any offense that carries a penalty of more than 90 days. That driver has a right to a jury trial. Attorney Randolph Rice can advise if a jury trial is right for your case.

Penalty for DUI in Bel Air Harford County?

The penalty for DUI in Bel Air can range from Probation Before Judgment (“PBJ”) to a guilty finding and jail time. If convicted of a 1st time DUI, the maximum penalty is 1 year in jail and or a $1000.00 fine. Whereas a DWI conviction can land a defendant in jail for 60 days and or a $500.00 fine if it is the first offense.

In addition to the court penalties, a driver stopped for DUI or DWI could face administrative penalties by the MVA. If a driver refuses to take a breath test or elects to take a test and provides a sample of 0.08 or higher, the MVA could impose a suspension or require ignition interlock.

If a driver receives a guilty finding, the Court will notify the MVA and point will be assessed against the driver’s record. This could lead to additional ignition interlock, suspension or revocation.

Click here to view DUI penalties in Maryland.

What Are My Rights After a DUI?

If a driver is stopped and suspected of DUI or DWI, the police officer will request the driver perform Field Sobriety Tests (“FST”). If the driver fails or performs poorly on those tests, then the officer will arrest the driver and take them to the police station for further testing.

A person suspected of DUI is not required to take any tests. That includes the FST or the breath test at the police state. However, if the person refuses to take the breath test, then the MVA will sanction the driver for that refusal. In addition, a driver is not required to take the FST. There are not administrative penalties for refusing to that the FST, however, the officer will more likely than not arrest the suspect for DUI and DWI.

How Many MVA Points for a Bel Air DUI?

If a person receives a PBJ, then the MVA will not assess points to that driver’s record. However, if the driver receives a finding of guilty, then the MVA will assess points. If convicted of DUI the following points apply:

  • DUI – 12 points
  • DWI – 8 points
  • DWI (CDS) – 12 points

Too many points on your driving record can lead to a suspension, revocation or requirement to participate in the Ignition Interlock (“II”) program. The II program required drivers to install, through an approved provider, a device in their car. This device is connected to the vehicle’s ignition system. The II device will require the driver to blow into the machine once the car is started. In addition, the driver must blow into the device as the car is driving about every 15 minutes.

Who is the Best Bel Air DUI Lawyer?

There is no standard system providing the best Bel Air DUI lawyer. But, Rice, Murtha & Psoras have been recognized by Super Lawyers, Avvo 10 out of 10 Superb Lawyer, and Lead Counsel Rated. Mr. Rice has received numerous awards for his work in Maryland DUI Law. He is respected by the Judges and State’s Attorneys that prosecute DUI and DWI cases in Bel Air and Harford County, Maryland.

If you’ve been charged with a DUI, contact the office today at (410) 431-0911 or 1-800-470-RICE to schedule a free DUI consultation. You will meet with attorney Randolph Rice to discuss your case and how he can help you.

DUI Lawyer Randolph Rice – Here to Help!

At Rice, Murtha & Psoras, we don’t judge people that receive a DUI charge in Bel Air, Maryland. We understand that people make mistakes and sometimes misjudge the amount of alcohol they consume before getting behind the wheel.

Rice, Murtha & Psoras are experienced preparing clients for Court. We make sure that all clients know what to expect when they appear in the Bel Air District Court. In addition, we have the knowledge and skill to try a DUI case before the Judges and juries of Harford County.

When looking for a Bel Air DUI lawyer, look no further than attorney Randolph Rice. Contact the office today at (410) 431-0911 to schedule a free DUI consultation.