First Offense DUI/DWI in Maryland

First DUI in Maryland results in both criminal and administrative penalties. Additionally, Maryland includes both DUI offenses and DWI offenses, which are separate charges with varying degrees of severity. Knowing where you stand, in terms of charges, potential penalties, and defense methods, is important and only possible through consulting with a Maryland DUI/DWI lawyer.

Administrative Penalties

• First offense DWI, or driving while impaired, results in administrative license suspension of six (6) months. Reinstatement will require completion of an alcohol/substance abuse assessment and treatment program. Additionally, at the discretion of courts, ignition interlock device may be mandated.

• First offense DUI, or driving under the influence, carries administrative license suspension penalties of six (6) months as well, with the same stipulations regarding reinstatement of license following suspension period.

Criminal Penalties

• First offense DWI does not require mandatory minimum periods of incarceration, but offenders face potential of incarceration up to two (2) months, with enhanced potential penalties of up to six (6) months if transporting a minor at time of arrest.

• First offense DUI does not require mandatory minimum periods of incarceration, but offenders face potential of incarceration up to one (1) year, with enhanced potential penalties of up to two (2) years if transporting a minor at time of arrest.

• Fines for first offense DWI carry penalties of not more than $500, or not more than $1,000 with minor present. Fines for DWI first offense stand at not more than $1,000, or not more than $2,000 with minor present. Fines do not include fees, surcharges, and other expenses incurred during completion of sentence or reinstatement process.

• Convictions influence charge and sentencing of future DUI/DWI arrests in Maryland for a period of five (5) years

Getting Legal Help

Statutory language in Maryland does not outright bar plea options that reduce DUI/DWI offenses into lesser criminal or non-criminal charges. Likewise, defendants, upon advice and representation of legal counsel, are free to negotiate plea deals involving favorable terms, or if case-specific conditions exist, obtain dismissal of charges. For more information and insight, consult with a Maryland first offense DUI/DWI lawyer.