Drinking and driving is never a good idea. Unfortunately, it happens more often than most Maryland residents would like to think. A drink or two over dinner, an evening socializing with business acquaintances or a fun night out with friends can lead to unintended DWI or DUI problems without the individual even realizing that he or she should not be behind the wheel of a car.
In Maryland, a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or more is considered DUI. With conviction of a first offense, the individual can expect consequences up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. A second or third offense conviction will garner even stiffer penalties. A blood alcohol level of .07 or below can result in a DWI conviction. This still carries significant penalties ranging from up to two months in jail and a $500 fine for the first offense to up to a year in jail for subsequent offenses.
In addition to fines and possible jail time, the individual convicted of a DWI or DUI can expect his or her license to be suspended or revoked. The inability to drive can prove to be even more of a problem for some individuals. This can make getting to work and even visiting with friends and family a challenge.
The fact is, many individuals who are charged with DUI or DWI do not begin their day planning to drink and drive. Additionally, it is possible the accused does not fit within the legal parameters of a formal DUI or DWI charge. Anyone in Maryland facing such charges will want an experienced legal team fighting to obtain the best possible result for the client.
