Convicted of a DUI? Know Your Rights.
A DUI conviction can be catastrophic and can wreak havoc on your livelihood, your future, and your family. From serious penalties to social stigma to difficulties in securing a job post-conviction, being charged with a DUI is nothing to take lightly. Penalties for repeat offenders are often much more serious and will take the expertise of a Maryland DUI lawyer to navigate.
What Defines a Repeat Offender?
In Maryland, a DUI repeat offender is anyone who receives more than one DUI violation within a five-year period. Violations can be received for the following:
- Driving or attempting to drive while under the influence of alcohol or impaired by alcohol
- Committing homicide while driving under the influence of alcohol or any drug
Penalties for Second-Time Offenders
Repeat second-time DUI offenders in Maryland can expect to face:
- License suspension for a minimum 180 or 270 days if chemical testing was submitted; up to two years without testing
- Mandatory installation and use of the “ignition interlock” device for up to one year on all applicable vehicles
- Fines up to $3,000
- Jail time of up to three years if a minor was being transported at the time of the incident; two years if no minor was in transit
Penalties for All Other Repeat Offenses
Repeat offenders with three or more convictions may face:
- License suspension equal to that of a second-time offender
- Required installation and use of the “ignition interlock” device for three years on all accessible vehicles legally drivable by the offender
- Fines up to $4,000
- Mandatory jail time of up to three years; four years if a minor was being transported at the time of the incident
Maryland DUI Repeat Offender Lawyer
Repeat offenses for DUIs in Maryland are no joke. As is laid out in the sections above, penalties for repeat offenders only increase and become more serious. While all DUI cases should be handled by a qualified Maryland DUI lawyer, repeat offenders especially should seek out the legal counsel of a DUI defense lawyer.
A Maryland DUI defense lawyer can help teach you and explain to you the charges and penalties associated with a DUI and help you navigate your case and life afterward. While it is not necessarily imminent, loss of job and social stigma can take a toll on the livelihood of those with DUI convictions. Many, if not most, Americans rely on cars to get to job interviews and work, run errands, and live a quality life. Seeking out a Maryland DUI defense lawyer if you’ve been charged with a DUI for the first time or for a repeat offense can help get you back on track.
Albers and Associates Knows DUI Cases
We’ll couple our legal expertise with our excellently rated services and responsive staff to fight for you. We want to make sure you get the best outcome in your Maryland DUI repeat offender case and have the legal team to do so. Contact us today!
