The Penalties For DUI And DWI In Maryland

Are you facing drunk driving charges? Are you worried about Maryland DUI penalties? If so, The Law Offices of John J. Pikulski, IV, LLC, can help. I understand how frightening these charges can be, so let me help defend your rights and alleviate your concerns. When your future is at risk, you need a lawyer you can trust.

Understanding The Difference Between DUI And DWI

Maryland drunk driving laws can be confusing and difficult to navigate. For instance, many people do not realize that driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while impaired (DWI) are actually two different charges under Maryland law ― each with their own unique penalties.

In most cases, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 percent or more is required for a DUI conviction. The less serious charge of DWI doesn’t even require that you take a BAC test at all. The state can prove this offense by merely showing there is alcohol in your system and that it affected your ability to operate a motor vehicle. The potential penalties for these offenses may include:

Driving Under The Influence of alcohol (DUI) 21-902(a) or drugs 21-902(c)

  • First offense: Fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to one year in jail
  • Second offense: Fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to two years in jail
  • Third or subsequent offense: Fine of up to $3,000 and/or up to three years in jail

Driving While Impaired (DWI) 21-902(b)

  • First offense: Fine of up to $500 and/or up to two months in jail
  • Second offense: Fine of up to $500 and/or up to one year in jail
  • Third or subsequent offense: Fine of up to $3,000 and/or up to three years in jail

In addition to the penalties that the court can impose, there are also administrative penalties that can come from the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). It is important to protect your rights at court, but also to protect your privilege to drive at an MVA hearing. If your request for a hearing is not filed in a timely manner, your license can be automatically suspended.

However, if your request is timely filed, and depending on the circumstances of your case, I may be able to prevent the MVA from imposing a license suspension or, alternatively, get them to grant you a modified suspension instead. In the case of more serious DUI charges, you may have the option to participate in an ignition interlock program, which can keep you on the road and getting where you need to be.

Schedule A Free Legal Consultation Today

If you are facing DUI, DWI or both, contact The Law Offices of John J. Pikulski, IV, LLC, to speak with an experienced defense attorney. While my office is located in Upper Marlboro, I represent clients throughout Prince George’s County and the surrounding areas. Email me, any time, day or night, or call me at 301-627-5297.