A Skilled Maryland DUI Defense Attorney Can Make The Difference
A DWI/DUI doesn’t need to be the end of your good driving record. If this is your first charge, a DWI/DUI defense attorney from Charm City Defense, can show you how to make sure it’s your last.
Criminal defense attorney Bradley Shepherd defends against all types of drunk driving charges and takes the following approach:
- Challenge the legality of the police stop
- Examine field sobriety tests and breathalyzer results for errors
- Prepare for vigorous cross-examination at trial to expose weaknesses in the state’s case
Even if defending the case is not likely to succeed, Bradley will strive to get your sentence reduced to probation before judgment, or otherwise minimize your exposure to consequences. He can also help you get life treatment, such as court-mandated DUI Alcohol Education Programs as well as ensure that your license isn’t revoked or suspended.
Why Early Legal Intervention Is Critical After A DUI Arrest
Being pulled over on suspicion of DUI can be scary and confusing. It’s important to understand your right to remain silent and to invoke your right to a lawyer. Trying to talk your way out of the situation will not help. Speak with an attorney as soon as possible and do not plead guilty to the charges.
You also need to protect your driver’s license by requesting a Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) hearing, ideally within 10 days of the arrest. While you have 30 days to request the hearing, missing the 10-day deadline means your license will be suspended on the 46th day from the arrest.
As your attorney, Bradley will ensure you meet the deadline, investigate the arrest and examine the evidence. If your rights were violated, he will seek to have evidence thrown out and the charges reduced or dismissed, when possible.
Failing To Hire A DUI Defense Attorney Could Cost You Your License
If you’ve previously had a DWI/DUI, you face enhanced penalties as a repeat offender, which include up to:
- Three years incarceration
- $3,000 in fines
- 18 months without a license
As an experienced DWI/DUI attorney in Timonium and throughout Maryland, Bradley Shepherd can explain the penalties and your options moving forward.
Additional DUI Consequences
All DUIs and DWIs carry the potential for severe consequences, including incarceration. Additionally, you may be forced to place an interlock device (breathalyzer) in your car, and the Motor Vehicle Association (MVA) may give you “points” on your driver record, which can result in increased insurance costs and/or suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.
Bradley can help explain all the potential consequences and assist you by either negotiating with the state’s attorney for a lesser sentence or by taking the case to trial. Below are the maximum sentences for DUIs and DWIs as well as mandatory MVA consequences (more consequences may exist depending on the facts).
What You Should Know About Maryland DUI Law
Here are a few things to know about Maryland DWI and DUI laws:
- Maryland DUI charges begin at .08% blood alcohol content (BAC) for adults 21 and over.
- Maryland DUI charges begin at .01% BAC for adults 21 and under.
- Maryland drivers are not obligated to submit to a field sobriety test.
- Maryland DUI and DWI charges are classified as misdemeanors and not felonies.
No matter the circumstances of your charges, you can rely on Bradley’s skills as a Maryland DUI defense attorney to represent you in court. With a professional DUI attorney by your side, you have a much better chance of beating the charges or at least reducing the penalties.
Understanding Maryland DUI/DWI Distinctions And Potential Charges
In Maryland, DUI and DWI are different charges. A DWI (driving while impaired) is a lesser charge than DUI (driving under the influence). A DWI charge is for BAC of .07% to .0799%. DUI is charged when BAC is .08% or above.
In 2024, Maryland revised the ignition interlock device (IID) law to be more strict. For first-time offenders, the minimum use of an IID is now six months. A second DUI charge will result in at least a one-year period. A third or higher charge is at least three years.
Maryland also has a provision called probation before judgement (PBJ), which allows a defendant to be put on probation without receiving a guilty verdict. A person cannot get this a second time unless 10 years have passed after the first offense, however.
Mitigating Penalties And Protecting Your Long-Term Future
There are primary consequences of DUI and DWI penalties, such as losing your license, going to jail or prison and paying fines. There are additional consequences, too. You will have a permanent criminal record because you can’t expunge a DUI in Maryland unless you got a PBJ,15 years have passed and you haven’t committed other serious offenses. This record can make it hard to get certain jobs. If you had a professional license, you may lose that, too. If you have a commercial driver’s license, your career may be over. If you were convicted of felony DUI and/or went to prison, you will lose some of your rights, including the right to vote and to own firearms.
Your future depends on the steps you take after an arrest. The attorney you choose is a crucial decision. You need someone with experience, knowledge, diligence and a reputation as a tough trial lawyer. Bradley Shepherd has these qualities and can protect your rights today and in the years to come.
Safeguard Your Future Today With Experienced Legal Representation
While every state has DWI and DUI laws, you need a local Maryland DUI attorney to handle your local case. Criminal defense attorney Bradley Shepherd can guide you through the process of defending yourself against allegations of impaired driving. He understands the local laws and how they affect the penalties.
Call 443-998-9450 or send an email instead. Free phone consultations.