An Annapolis drunk driving conviction can have significant, long-lasting effects on your life. Not only does it come with severe legal penalties, but it can also impact your finances, your reputation, and even your ability to find employment.
Legal Penalties
The legal penalties for drunk driving can be severe, including jail time, fines, and the loss of your driver’s license. Depending on the severity of the offense, a conviction could result in a short jail sentence or up to several years in prison. Fines are also usually imposed on the driver, typically ranging from a few hundred dollars to thousands. Most municipalities also require those convicted of drunk driving to attend an alcohol or drug education program.
Financial Consequences
The financial cost of a drunk driving conviction can be substantial. In addition to the fines, you may be required to pay for an ignition interlock device, court costs, and attorney fees. Plus, if your driver’s license is suspended or revoked, you may need to take a cab, rideshare, or use public transportation to get to work, which can be costly. And, if you were in an accident while drinking, you could be sued for damages and injuries.
Reputation and Employment
A drunk driving conviction can also damage your reputation. It can be embarrassing, but can also make it difficult to find future employment. Many employers are wary of hiring someone with a criminal record, and a drunk driving conviction may lead them to second guess your hiring.
Long-Term Effects
The long-term effects of a drunk driving conviction can be difficult to overcome. You may find it difficult to secure loans or credit cards, find housing, or finance a new vehicle. Insurance companies can also increase your rates or even drop your coverage altogether.
A drunk driving conviction can have a lasting impact on your life, but with the right Annapolis DUI lawyers, you can move forward with a solid understanding of the legal hurdles you face and a team dedicated to defending your rights. It’s important to follow the court’s instructions, pay the fines, and attend any required classes or treatment. With our undivided attention, you can rest assured you are getting the best defense against serious consequences.
Annapolis Drunk Driving Offenses
Drunk driving is a serious offense in Maryland that carries stiff penalties. In the state, a driver is considered to be driving while intoxicated (DWI) if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. In addition, drivers under 21 are considered to be driving under the influence (DUI) if their BAC is 0.02% or higher.
Driving while intoxicated is a serious offense in Maryland. All drivers should be aware of the state’s laws. If you are ever arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence, immediately call the Annapolis DUI lawyers who understand the law and how best to defend you in court.
Penalties for Drunk Driving in Annapolis
If convicted of a DUI, a driver in Annapolis can face a variety of penalties, including fines, jail time, license suspension or revocation, and even the installation of an ignition interlock device. The specific penalties depend on the driver’s BAC and the number of DUI convictions they have had in the past.
Drivers who are pulled over and found to have a BAC of 0.08% or higher can face several penalties, including:
- A fine of up to $1000
- Suspension of the driver’s license for up to six months
- Possible jail time
- Possible probation
- 12 points on a driver’s record
- Attendance at a Maryland impaired driver program
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
The penalties for a second or subsequent offense are even more severe. A second offense within five years of a first DUI conviction can carry a fine of up to $2,000 and a license suspension of up to one year, with additional penalties such as jail time and additional points on your driver’s record also possible.
For a first-time DUI offense, a driver in Maryland will face a fine of up to $1,000, up to a year in jail, and a six-month license suspension. If the driver’s BAC is .15% or higher, the fine can be up to $2,000, and the jail sentence increased to two years.
A second DUI offense is even more serious and results in a fine of up to $2,000, up to two years in jail, and a one-year license suspension. If the BAC is .15% or higher, the fine can be up to $3,000, and the jail sentence can be up to three years.
In addition to these penalties, a driver convicted of a DUI in Maryland may also be required to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle. This is a breathalyzer device that requires the driver to blow into it before starting their car and will not allow the car to start if the driver’s BAC is above a certain level.
Of course, each case is different, and various factors can affect how the law is applied. When preparing a defense, our team evaluates every piece of evidence to ensure we have all the information we need to defend you in court, if necessary. We take the time to sit with you and answer any questions you have, and then explain the steps we will take to build your defense. We will also work with the Motor Vehicle Administration to ensure your right to drive is protected.
If you have been arrested or charged with DUI or DWI, chances are you’re tremendously stressed and looking for someone to guide you through the legal process. Contact Pinder Plotkin today and schedule a free legal consultation with one of our experienced Annapolis DUI lawyers. Let us guide you through the process and help you get the best results for your unique situation.