DUI/DWI Defense
Protecting the rights of clients charged with drunk-driving offenses in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and California
Punishment for drunk driving has become harsher with each passing year. Offenses that were once considered traffic violations have escalated to the point where jail time and significant fines are a real possibility, even for a first offense. With your freedom and finances at risk, it is no longer wise to face driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI) charges without an experienced criminal lawyer at your side.
The experienced attorneys at DuBoff & Associates, Chtd. work with you to protect your rights and assure the best possible outcome. We understand the fear and stress of being charged with DUI/DWI. We believe you are innocent until proven guilty. And we will fight for you every step of the way because we are the law firm that cares. That means we stand by our clients and treat each one with the respect they deserve when others might turn away.
Drunk driving penalties are different in each state, but all are harsh
Each state has its own drunk driving laws. Maryland is a good example. The state has an implied consent law that requires all drivers to submit to chemical tests of your blood, breath, or urine with reasonable cause, and punishes drivers with mandatory penalties if they refuse. Maryland recognizes DUI and DWI as separate offenses, with DUI being slightly more serious. As is mandated throughout the United States, DUI is defined as having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or above, while a DWI is charged if a driver’s BAC is .07.
Maryland drunk driving law names several unusual circumstances. Penalties are substantially increased if you are convicted of drunk driving with a minor in your vehicle. There is zero tolerance in Maryland for drinking and driving under the age of 21. A BAC of .02 may earn a young driver a suspended or revoked license. Drivers of commercial vehicles may be charged with a BAC of .04. Washington, D.C. and California have similar laws
Drunk driving penalties increase with every offense, so take action immediately
Convicted first offenders in Maryland may receive up to a year in jail, a minimum six month license suspension, and a fine up to $1,000 for a DUI. A second offense conviction means a possible two-year jail sentence, a year license suspension if the second offense is within five years of the first, up $2,000 in fines, and possible Ignition Interlock installation the offender’s car. Being convicted a third time can result in up to three years in jail and increased fines and license suspensions. These penalties may be as much as doubled if a minor was in the vehicle. Penalties for DWI charges are somewhat less, but still very serious.
An attorney experienced in drunk-driving defense can help
There are important reasons to consider calling DuBoff & Associates, Chtd. immediately if you are charged with drunk driving. Our experienced DUI/DWI defense attorneys take you through every step of your stop, search, BAC test, and arrest to ensure that your Constitutional rights were not violated. Faulty readings have often been substantiated depending on how the BAC test was administered. These and many other strategies may be employed to either get your charges dismissed or reduced. We work hard to find every possible way to defend our clients’ rights and freedom.
Contact the law firm that cares
If you or a loved one has been charged with drunk driving, speak with an experienced DuBoff & Associates, Chtd. DUI/DWI defense attorney. For a free consultation, call us at 301-576-0947 or contact DuBoff & Associates online.