DUI / Drug Crimes

DUI
DUI, or driving under the influence, carries stiff penalties under Maryland law, even for a first offense. A driver can be arrested for DUI if the blood alcohol test is .08 or higher.

DUI Penalties
For first offense:

Minimum suspension of driver's license for 45 days
Fines up to $1,000
Punishment in jail of up to 1 year
12 points on the Maryland Driver's License record if convicted

DWI
Or driving while impaired, arrests occur when blood alcohol tests at .07 BAC. While not as extreme as DUI penalties, DWI penalties are still quite stiff.

DWI Penalties

Fines up to $500
First offense - Punishment of up to 2 months in jail
Second offense - Punishment of up to 1 year in jail

Contacting an attorney before submitting to a breath or blood alcohol test should be your first course of action. We will be able to advise you on what to do. If you have already submitted to a breath or blood alcohol test, the earlier you contact us, the better prospects you have for getting reduced charges or case dismissal.

Drug Crimes
Both state and federal laws relating to drug crimes influence whether an individual is charged with a federal or state crime. The circumstances of drug possession, for example, may result in a misdemeanor or a felony charge. Many variables come into play, and because penalties for drug crime can be very harsh, obtaining an attorney right away is always a smart decision.

The type of drug and quantity in possession, as well as whether there was intent to distribute or sell the drugs also factor into severity of penalty if convicted. Illegal drugs such as heroin, meth, cocaine, crack, marijuana and certain prescription medications that qualify as addictive carry particularly harsh penalties, especially for drug trafficking.

It is never too soon to start planning a defense in a drug case. If you are being investigated on drug charges or arrested, you should immediately contact a criminal lawyer experienced in handling drug cases.

Our attorneys offer a free initial consultation for criminal DUI and drug crime cases. Day and evening appointments are available. Please call our office at 410-838-0004.