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Is a DUI considered a felony in MD?

   February 8, 2023

DUI in Maryland: Understanding the Consequences

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious crime in Maryland, with severe consequences for those who are convicted. The state takes a tough stance on drunk driving, and a DUI conviction can have a lasting impact on your life. In this article, we’ll explore the laws surrounding DUIs in Maryland, the consequences of a conviction, and what you can do if you’ve been charged with a DUI.

Is a DUI a Felony in Maryland?

The short answer is no. In Maryland, a DUI is considered a misdemeanor, not a felony. However, that doesn’t mean that a DUI conviction is a minor offense. In fact, a DUI conviction can have serious consequences, including fines, jail time, and a criminal record that can affect your future opportunities.

Penalties for a DUI Conviction in Maryland

The consequences of a DUI conviction in Maryland depend on several factors, including the number of prior offenses, the level of alcohol in your system, and whether anyone was injured or killed as a result of your drunk driving. Here are some of the potential consequences of a DUI conviction in Maryland:

  • Fines: A first-time DUI conviction can result in a fine of up to $1,000. Repeat offenders can face even higher fines.
  • Jail time: A first-time DUI conviction can result in up to one year in jail. Repeat offenders can face even longer jail sentences.
  • License suspension: Your driver’s license may be suspended for a period of time following a DUI conviction. The length of the suspension will depend on the circumstances of your case.
  • Ignition interlock device: You may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, which will prevent you from starting the engine if you have been drinking.
  • Criminal record: A DUI conviction will result in a criminal record that can affect your future opportunities, including employment, housing, and education.
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It’s important to remember that these consequences can have a lasting impact on your life, and that’s why it’s so important to take a DUI charge seriously. If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Maryland, it’s critical that you seek the help of an experienced DUI attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.

Defending Yourself Against a DUI Charge in Maryland

If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Maryland, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. The good news is that you have options, and there are several strategies that you can use to defend yourself against a DUI charge. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Challenge the stop: If you were pulled over for a DUI, it’s important to challenge the stop if there was no probable cause. If the police did not have a valid reason for stopping you, the evidence they obtained may be inadmissible in court.
  • Challenge the breath test: Breath tests are not always accurate, and there are several factors that can affect the results. If you believe that your breath test was inaccurate, it’s important to challenge the results in court.
  • Challenge the field sobriety tests: Field sobriety tests are subjective and can be influenced by a variety of factors, including the officer’s training and the conditions at the time of the test. If you believe that the field sobriety tests were not conducted properly, it’s important to challenge the results in court.

It’s important to remember that you have the right to an attorney and the right to remain silent. If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Maryland, it’s critical that you seek the help of an experienced DUI attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.

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Conclusion

Driving under the influence is a serious crime in Maryland, with severe consequences for those who are convicted. Whether you’re facing a first-time DUI charge or a repeat offense, it’s important to take the charge seriously and seek the help of an experienced DUI attorney. With the right legal representation, you may be able to challenge the evidence against you and avoid a conviction, or negotiate a plea deal that reduces the consequences of a conviction.

Don’t take chances with your future. If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Maryland, contact an experienced DUI attorney today to learn more about your rights and options.

 

Author: whoiswh