Driving under the influence and while impaired by alcohol or other drugs can affect your life in so many ways, as a DUI lawyer. From potential incarceration, to supervised and intense probation, to suspension or revocation of your license, DUIs can affect your life for years to come. Here is a general overview of DUI law in Maryland. It is important that you contact an experienced DUI attorney right after you have been charged. There are things you should be doing right away to help your chances of success, and some issues are extremely time sensitive.
Underage DUI
In order to try and end underage drunk driving, all fifty states have enacted a zero-tolerance law that applies to drivers who are not yet 21. If someone were to receive an underage DUI, there can be legal ramifications as well as there can be lasting effects on their education in the future. If you or your loved one has been charged with an underage DUI, you should consider working with an experienced DUI attorney. The legal limit varies by state but it is usually between .01% and .03%. The severity of the charge depends on the state because some states view a zero-tolerance violation as an infraction while others view it as a misdemeanor crime.
These charges are taken very seriously and it is important to have someone on your side to help fight for a lesser charge.
DUI Laws for those Over 21
Standard DUI: In every state, someone operating a motor vehicle, regardless of their age, can be charged with a standard DUI for driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs or driving with a blood alcohol level of .08% or higher. In Maryland, a standard DUI is charged as a misdemeanor. Aggravating factors, such as an accident that kills someone, can make the case a felony.
Penalties for a DUI
As previously mentioned, the penalties for a DUI vary greatly depending on the state, as well as the facts of the case. Regardless of the state, receiving a DUI can result in any or many of the following:
- Suspension, revocation, or points on your license
- Fines between a couple hundred to a couple thousand dollars
- Time in jail of up to one year
- Community service
- Installing an ignition interlock device
- Substance abuse treatment or classes
School Opportunities
For many scholarship or college applications, you have to state whether you have been convicted of a crime. A misdemeanor conviction is seen as a crime, so you will have to explain that on your application. Typically having a DUI conviction will not make you ineligible for the scholarship or to the college, however, it is one of the factors that are considered.
Seek Legal Help
If you have been arrested for an underage DUI, it is important that you speak with an experienced attorney. A dedicated team of DUI lawyers can help walk you through this process. It is important to be open with your attorney regarding any fears you have on how this conviction could negatively impact your future plans. Contact a criminal defense attorney to schedule a consultation.