Baltimore Felony DUI Attorney
Facing Felony DUI Charges in Baltimore, MD?
In Maryland, driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense, and the consequences become even more severe when the charge is elevated to a felony DUI. Felony DUI charges typically arise when certain aggravating factors are present, such as multiple DUI convictions, accidents causing significant injury or death, or driving under the influence with a minor in the vehicle.
If you find yourself facing charges for felony DUI in Baltimore, you need an experienced and dedicated legal team on your side. At Albers & Associates, we understand the seriousness of felony DUI charges and are committed to providing aggressive defense strategies to protect your rights and future.
Call (443) 665-8030 or contact us online today to request a free consultation.
What is a Felony DUI in Maryland?
In Maryland, a felony DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge is a serious offense that occurs when a person is arrested for DUI and has one or more aggravating factors that elevate the offense from a misdemeanor to a felony.
Common aggravating factors that can lead to a felony DUI charge in Maryland include:
- Multiple DUI Offenses: If a person has prior DUI convictions on their record, they may face felony charges for subsequent DUI offenses. Generally, a fourth or subsequent DUI offense within a 10-year period is considered a felony.
- Serious Bodily Injury or Death: If a DUI results in serious bodily injury or death to another person, the driver can be charged with a felony. This is often referred to as vehicular manslaughter or vehicular homicide.
- Child Endangerment: If a person is arrested for DUI with a minor (someone under 18 years old) in the vehicle, it can lead to felony charges, even for a first-time offense.
- Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License: If a person is arrested for DUI while their driver's license is suspended or revoked due to a previous DUI conviction, it can result in a felony charge.
- Refusing a Chemical Test: In Maryland, if a driver refuses to submit to a breathalyzer test or blood test when lawfully requested by law enforcement, they can be charged with a felony, known as a "felony refusal."
Felony DUI Penalties
The penalties for a felony DUI in Maryland can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case and the individual's prior criminal history. However, common penalties for felony DUI convictions may include:
- Prison Time: Felony DUI convictions can result in significant prison sentences, especially for cases involving serious bodily injury or death. The length of the prison sentence will depend on the specific details of the case.
- Fines: Felony DUI convictions often come with substantial fines, which can amount to thousands of dollars.
- License Suspension: A felony DUI conviction can lead to the revocation of the driver's license for an extended period, potentially years.
- Probation: In some cases, individuals may be placed on probation as part of their sentence, during which they must adhere to strict conditions, such as attending alcohol treatment programs and not committing further offenses.
- Ignition Interlock Device: The court may require the installation of an ignition interlock device on the offender's vehicle, which prevents the vehicle from starting if the driver has been drinking alcohol.
- Restitution: If the DUI resulted in injury or property damage, the offender may be ordered to pay restitution to the victims.
How Can Albers & Associates Help?
Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are committed to providing aggressive defense in felony DUI cases. We have a thorough understanding of Maryland DUI laws and can help you navigate the complex legal system to obtain the best possible outcome for your case.
We will work tirelessly to:
- Investigate the circumstances leading up to the arrest
- Review police reports and other evidence
- Challenge the accuracy of field sobriety tests and blood alcohol content (BAC) tests
- Determine whether any procedural errors were made during the arrest or booking process
- File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charges, if appropriate
- Negotiate with prosecutors to seek a reduction of charges or alternative sentencing options, such as probation, treatment programs, or community service
At Albers & Associates, we understand that a felony DUI charge can be overwhelming and stressful. That's why we provide compassionate and personalized legal representation to ensure that you have the best possible outcome for your case.
If you or a loved one is facing a felony DUI charge in Baltimore, MD, don't hesitate to contact Albers & Associates today at (443) 665-8030 for a free case evaluation. Let us put our experience and knowledge to work for you.