Rockville First Offense DUI Lawyer

Experienced DUI Attorney in Rockville, MD for First Offenses

Being charged with DUI (driving under the influence) or DWI (driving while impaired) for the first time in Maryland can be a frightening, overwhelming experience. In this situation, you may be worried that you could lose your license, that you could face high fines and other costs, or even that you could be sentenced to time in jail. You may worry about how these charges may affect your reputation, your job, or your ability to manage family responsibilities. Fortunately, you do not need to handle this situation alone. With an experienced attorney on your side, you can take steps to defend against first-time DUI charges.

The team at Salvado Law Offices is highly skilled and experienced in DUI cases and other matters involving criminal charges. We can provide invaluable guidance on how you can protect your rights after being arrested for intoxicated driving, and we can advocate on your behalf throughout the legal process, helping you determine the best ways to resolve your case successfully. We will advise you on the defense strategies that may be available, and we will help you take steps to minimize the effects that a DUI or DWI charge will have on your life.

Penalties for First-Offense DUI and DWI in Maryland

You could be charged with a first-time DUI per se if you are arrested on suspicion of drunk driving and you take a blood or breath test showing that you were above the legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) or had illegal controlled substances in your system. Even if you refuse a breath or blood test, or if you were not above the legal limit, you could still be charged with DUI or DWI based on claims that the use of alcohol, prescription drugs, or other substances caused you to be unable to drive a vehicle safely. The penalties you could face if you are convicted may include:

First-time DUI and DUI per se:

• Jail time: The maximum sentence is one year in jail. While judges often suspend jail sentences for first-time offenders, jail time may still be a possibility.
• Fines: The maximum fine is $1,000. You may also be required to pay legal fees and other related costs, and you may face increased auto insurance rates.
• License suspension/revocation: If chemical tests showed that you had a BAC of at least .08 grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath, or had illegal controlled substances in your system, your license will be suspended for 180 days. A refusal to take a breath or blood test will result in a 270-day license suspension. If you are convicted of DUI, your license will be revoked for up to six months.
• Points on driving record: A DUI conviction will add 12 points to your driving record. If you accumulate a certain number of points due to traffic violations, you may face further sanctions from the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA).

First-Time DWI:

• Jail Time: The maximum sentence is two months in jail. Like DUI cases, judges may exercise discretion in sentencing, but the threat of jail time remains.
• Fines: The maximum fine is $500. As with DUI charges, other fees and expenses may also apply.
• License suspension: A DWI conviction may lead to a license suspension for up to six months.
• Points on driving record: A DWI conviction will add eight points to your driving record.

Ignition Interlock Device Requirements

An ignition interlock device (IID) is a breathalyzer installed in a vehicle that prevents the engine from starting if the driver's BAC exceeds a predetermined limit. In Maryland, you may choose to participate in the IID program if your license has been suspended following an arrest for DUI or DWI. If you are convicted of DUI or certain DWI offenses, an IID will be required.

You will be responsible for all costs associated with the ignition interlock device, including installation, monthly calibration, and maintenance fees. While using an IID, you will be monitored by the MVA. Regular reports will be sent to the MVA, and any violations, such as attempting to start the vehicle with a BAC over the limit, can result in additional penalties, including extensions of IID requirements or the loss of your driving privileges.

Contact Our Rockville, MD First-Offense DUI Attorneys

With the assistance of a skilled attorney from Salvado Law Offices, you can address charges of first-offense DUI or DWI. We will help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and work towards a resolution that minimizes the impact on your life. Contact us at 301-933-1814 to set up a free consultation and discuss your situation with a knowledgeable attorney. We are here to provide you with compassionate, effective legal support. In addition to assisting with Maryland DUI/DWI cases, we also provide representation for clients in Virginia from our office in Falls Church.