Glen Burnie DUI defense attorney

How DUI laws can affect repeat offenders

Repeat drunk driving offenders face potentially stiffer penalties in Maryland than individuals charged with a first-time offense. However, that does not mean your fate is sealed. As a drunk driving defense attorney in Glen Burnie, I investigate all the circumstances surrounding drunk driving charges. Realize that many aspects of a DUI case are open to challenge and the prosecutor must prove the case against you. The Law Office of Robert A. Siegel, P.A. can evaluate your case and devise the best defense strategy.

Possible penalties for repeat DUI offenses

Penalties for a second DUI offense include:

Up to $2,000 fine
Two years in jail
One year minimum license suspension

12 points on your driving record
Possible ignition interlock device (IID)
Mandatory completion of an impaired driver intervention program

Penalties for a third (or higher) DUI offense (felony) include:

Up to $3,000 fine
Three years in jail

18 months minimum license suspension
Mandatory completion of an impaired driver intervention program

Other extenuating circumstances, such as driving with a minor in the car, can also increase penalties. Habitual offender filing may result in mandatory jail time, mandatory interlock ignition device, and a lengthier alcohol education program.

Of course, the severity of the offense is greater when DUI results in an injury accident or fatality.

DUI fatalities

According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), out of 527 traffic fatalities in Maryland in 2009, 30 percent were due to alcohol-impaired driving. The charge for fatality caused by DUI in Maryland is a felony called homicide by motor vehicle or vessel while impaired by alcohol. Penalties include a fine of up to $5,000 and up to three years in jail.

Importance of hiring a competent Glen Burnie DUI lawyer

Successful defense against a repeat DUI offense often depends on the lawyer's experience and skills in developing an effective case strategy. An inexperienced attorney may tell you to plead guilty and serve jail time. However, as a Glen Burnie drunk driving defense lawyer, I conduct thorough case investigations. Investigations often reveal holes in the prosecution’s case, such as police failure to follow proper arrest procedures, improper administration of a blood alcohol content (BAC) test, or a lack of probable cause for arrest.

Consult an experienced DUI law firm in Glen Burnie