Hire Waldorf, MD Criminal Defense Attorneys to Avoid the Consequences of a DUI Conviction
There are some serious personal consequences to being convicted of DUI (or DWI). These are related to both immediate criminal justice consequences and longer-term life consequences. This is why it is important to retain dedicated, top-rated, and successful Maryland criminal defense lawyers like the ones at the Law Office of Robert Castro. Our phone number is (301) 705-5137. Call us if you have been arrested or charged. We are available around the clock, 24/7. We have offices in Waldorf, Maryland. Below, we will focus on the consequences of a first-time DUI conviction.
Criminal justice penalties for DUI conviction
In Maryland, conviction of a 1st offense DUI will result in a potential punishment of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Further, 12 points will be added to your driving record, and, in some cases, your driver’s license will be suspended for up to 6 months. Generally, courts will add an “alcohol restriction” to your license. This prohibits you from operating a vehicle with ANY level of alcohol in your bloodstream. Violation of this restriction can lead to more severe punishments in the event of a subsequent traffic stop for alleged driving while intoxicated.
In some cases of a first-time DUI conviction, the courts will require participation in an IID program. This stands for “Ignition Interlock Device,” which is installed in your vehicles (at your expense) and prevents you from starting your vehicle if you are impaired by alcohol. Essentially, you must “blow” into the device, which calculates your blood alcohol level and then either allows you to start the ignition or prevents you from starting the car. There are also periodic appointments and maintenance requirements. You will also have a driver’s license that is ignition interlock-restricted. Full licensure is regained by completion of the program. Aside from the hassle, this can be embarrassing if you have kids or regularly provide transportation for family and friends.
Life consequences for a DUI conviction
Aside from the foregoing, there are a number of life consequences for a first-time DUI conviction. These include:
More severe penalties for any subsequent DUI arrest and conviction
Difficulty obtaining certain jobs requiring driving
Difficulty in getting licensed in certain professions
Impact on renting an apartment (as some landlords check and screen out those with convictions on their records)
Inability to obtain car insurance and higher premiums if obtained
Impact on other legal matters like divorce and child custody
Potential impact on your 2nd Amendment firearm fight
And more
Hire a DUI lawyer to help
If you have been arrested and/or charged, hire a good DUI lawyer to help. There may be many criminal defenses that can help you avoid conviction.
Contact Waldorf, Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer Robert Castro Today
This article has been provided by the Law Office of Robert Castro. For more information or questions, contact our office to speak to an experienced Maryland criminal defense lawyer at (301) 705-5137. We are Waldorf, MD, Criminal Defense lawyers. Our address is 2670 Crain Highway, Waldorf, MD 20601.
