Tiger Woods get DUI Diversion, can you?

Tiger Woods has agreed to enter the first-time DUI offender diversion program in a plea deal.

Woods’s presence was not required in court. The program requires offenders to plead guilty to reckless driving, be placed on 12 months probation, complete DUI education classes, and abstain from alcohol and drugs.

Pretty sweet deal for Woods who was arrested on May 29 in Jupiter, Fla., after police found him asleep behind the wheel of his car, which was pulled to the side of the road and had two flat tires and body damage. His speech was slurred and he showed no awareness of where he was.

So, if you’re arrested in Maryland for DUI can you avoid a drunk driving conviction, not appear in court and enter a diversion program like Tiger Woods?

The answer is: No.

Maryland has no first time DUI diversion program

Maryland does not offer a diversion program for first time DUI offenders.

In fact, if you enter into a guilty plea it will include a drunk driving offense.  Like Florida, there will be a probation, education classes and abstinence from substances.  But, the biggest difference is that your plea will most likely involve a conviction or PBJ to a DUI charge.

So, while some may think Tiger Woods’ deal is because of his celebrity, it’s actually a product of Florida and how the state handles DUI cases.

Had this happened in Maryland, Woods likely would not be offered a similar deal because a diversion program does not exist.

He’d also have to appear in court.

Schedule a Free Maryland DUI Lawyer Consultation

When seeking out a Baltimore County, MD DUI lawyer, consider Albers & Associates. Ross W. Albers is an experienced and proven Baltimore DUI lawyer who has the ability to get you the best possible outcome for your Maryland DUI case. For more information on Albers & Associates, or to schedule a free consultation, give us a call at (443) 665-8030 or fill out the form on our website, today