When you’re charged with a DUI in Maryland, the penalties you receive will depend on a few different factors, including criminal history and BAC level at the time of your stop. At Albers & Associates, we can help you avoid jail time and other harsh penalties when you work with our professional DUI defense attorneys.
DUI Penalties in Maryland
Maryland has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers who get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. This means strict penalties, even if it is a first-time offense. The most common penalties assessed for DUI are:
- Hefty fines
- Points added to driving record
- Driver’s license revocation or suspension
- Enrollment in Ignition Interlock Program (IIP)
- Jail time
Central Booking vs. Jail
Drivers who are caught operating a motor vehicle while over the legal limit of alcohol, including first-time offenders, are often arrested on the spot and taken to central booking. They can be held here while they sober up or while waiting for their bond to be paid. Depending on the details surrounding the DUI, offenders may be imprisoned and serve jail time for their crime(s).
Reasons Your DUI Could Mean Jail Time
Although sometimes even first-time offenders in Maryland can receive sentences of imprisonment for driving under the influence, there are some specific circumstances that almost guarantee jail time if paired with your DUI:
- Being under the legal drinking age
- Having a suspended license
- Refusing the breathalyzer test
- Causing an accident
- Injuring another driver or a pedestrian
- Transporting a minor
- Previous DUI charges
Avoid Imprisonment with a Maryland DUI Attorney
The best way to avoid harsh penalties like jail time when you are charged with DUI is to work with a reliable MD criminal defense attorney. At Albers & Associates. we’ve been practicing DUI law for many years and have a proven track record of ensuring our clients get fair treatment when faced with DUI/DWI charges. Contact us today for a free legal consultation.
