Rockville Multiple DUI Lawyer

Aggressive Defense for Multiple DUI Charges in Rockville, MD

Charges of driving under the influence (DUI) will typically involve accusations that a driver has drunk alcohol before getting behind the wheel, although the use of drugs can also lead to DUI charges. DUI is a serious offense in Maryland, especially for repeat offenders. The penalties for a second or subsequent DUI or DWI offense are harsher than those that apply for a first-time violation. The judicial system tends to be less lenient with those who have prior convictions, viewing repeat offenses as an indication of a persistent issue with substance use or abuse that endangers public safety.

An attorney can play a vital role in defending against repeat DUI and DWI offenses. At Salvado Law Offices, we provide effective legal representation to help reduce the impact of intoxicated driving charges on a client's life. With extensive experience handling DUI/DWI cases for people with previous arrests or convictions, our lawyers can craft a defense strategy to respond effectively to criminal charges while advocating for the most favorable outcome for our client. We provide compassionate representation, working to limit the negative impact on your life as much as possible.

Second DUI or DWI Offense Penalties

In Maryland, the penalties for a second intoxicated driving offense may include:

• Fines: A person convicted of DUI for the second time may be required to pay a maximum fine of $2,000. For a second DWI offense, the maximum fine is $500.
• Jail time: A second DUI has a maximum jail sentence of two years, while a second DWI may lead to a sentence of up to one year.
• License suspension/revocation: If a person fails a blood test or breathalyzer test after a previous DUI arrest or conviction, they will typically face a 180-day license suspension, although this increases to 270 days if a test shows that they had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .15 percent or more. The refusal to submit to a blood or breath test for a second offense will lead to a one-year suspension. A second conviction of DUI within five years after a first-time DUI will lead to a one-year revocation, followed by the requirement to use an ignition interlock device (IID) for one year. A second DWI conviction will typically result in a suspension for nine to 12 months.
• Increased insurance rates: A second DUI or DWI conviction will typically lead to significantly higher car insurance premiums. Insurers view repeat offenders as high-risk, resulting in steep rate increases or even policy cancellations.

Harsher Penalties for Third, Fourth, or Subsequent DUI Offenses

When a person is convicted of a third DUI or any subsequent offenses, the penalties will escalate considerably. These repeat offenses are often classified as felonies. In general, a third DUI may lead to a maximum fine of $5,000 and a maximum prison sentence of five years. A person convicted of a fourth DUI may be sentenced to up to 10 years and fined up to $10,000. For any subsequent DUI convictions, the penalties will be even more serious.

When a person is considered a habitual DUI offender, they may lose their driving privileges for multiple years, or they may even face a permanent revocation. Participation in mandatory substance abuse treatment programs may be required, and failure to meet these requirements could lead to additional penalties.

Contact Our Rockville, Maryland Multiple DUI Defense Lawyer

If you have a previous arrest or conviction for DUI or DWI, the guidance of a skilled and experienced attorney becomes crucial when defending against a second or subsequent offense. Salvado Law Offices can help address these serious accusations and determine the ideal defense strategies to use. We can review the circumstances surrounding your arrest to determine what evidence may play a role in your case, and we can work to challenge field sobriety tests, breathalyzer tests, blood tests, or other evidence. We will work to resolve your case while reducing your potential penalties and helping you take steps to get your driver's license back as quickly as possible.

Get in touch with us at 301-933-1814 to get the legal help you need in your DUI or DWI case. Arrange a free consultation today to learn about your legal options and ensure that you will have a strong legal advocate on your side. Your future and your freedom are too important to leave to chance—trust our experienced attorneys to help you defend against a conviction. In addition to representing clients in Maryland, we also provide legal help for people facing DUI charges in the areas around Falls Church, Virginia.