Westminster DUI Defense Lawyer

Baltimore Crimianl Defense Lawyers

Have you recently been pulled over for a DUI? From the moment that you are pulled over in a traffic stop, your life could be drastically changed. DUI offenses are considered very serious crimes and are prosecuted to the fullest extent in Maryland. If convicted, you could be facing hefty fines and jail time. Don’t try to handle the charges alone. Call a Westminster DUI lawyer for a free consultation.

What is a DUI?

DUI is an acronym for driving under the influence. This means that a person was operating a vehicle and upon getting pulled over was found to be impaired by the effects of alcohol or other drugs. When DUI’s are mentioned, the most common thought is that the driver was under the influence of alcohol.
To determine if the driver was in fact under the influence, the blood alcohol content (BAC) is tested. This is the concentration of alcohol in one’s bloodstream. Depending on age and type of license, how high the BAC must be to constitute a DUI fluctuates. For example, if a driver who is under twenty-one years of age with a .02 or higher BAC, that can constitute charges for a DUI. If the driver is over twenty-one and has a BAC of .08 or higher, then the person is guilty of driving under the influence.
It is important to keep in mind that there are different standards and that even if a person’s BAC is under .08, they may still be guilty of a crime. If you have been charged with a DUI, you need to consult with a Westminster DUI Lawyer.

Penalties for DUI

Since DUI’s are prosecuted vigorously in Maryland, the penalties are also very stringent. The penalties also depend on if it is a person’s first offense or second or third offense. If you have been charged with a DUI and it is your first offense, the jail time can be up to one year and the fine is not to exceed $1,000. On top of jail time and penalties a person will also have their license suspended. For a first offense, a person’s license is suspended for six months.
For second and third offenses, the penalties become much harder. For a second DUI offense a person can face up to two years in jail and a fine not to exceed $2,000. Furthermore, the license is suspended for one year. Finally, if a person receives their second or third DUI offense, they are required to keep an Ignition Interlock Device in their car. This means that in order for a car to start, the driver must blow into the device.
When it comes to sentencing there is a lookback period of five years, which is the period of time that prior DUI’s are relevant for sentencing purposes. If you are facing DUI charges, you could be facing serious jail time, major fines, and a suspended sentence. Don’t risk getting the maximum punishments. Call an experienced Westminster DUI lawyer immediately.

What Should I do After Getting Pulled Over?

From the time that you get pulled over to the time that you hire an attorney is crucial. Any statements made could be used against you in court. Any test taken may also be used as evidence against you in court. This is why you should hire a Westminster DUI lawyer immediately. Once you have retained a Westminster DUI attorney, we will be able to walk you through the next steps such as going to court and possible defenses.

Call a Westminster DUI Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been charged with a DUI, don’t hesitate to call the Rice, Murtha & Psoras. We have the experience it takes to help you navigate the legal system when it comes to defending against DUI charges. We understand that DUI charges can be horrific. So call a Westminster DUI lawyer for a free consultation today.