How Much is Bail for a DUI? What You Need to Know

DUI/DWI charges in Maryland can vary depending on the circumstances of a number of factors. The severity of the case and crime, as the individual’s past criminal history, are some of the main factors that play a role in how much bail is for a DUI.

First, it’s important to understand that bail is essentially a financial guarantee that the defendant will appear in court for all scheduled hearings and proceedings related to their case. In other words, if the defendant is released on bail, they must pay a certain amount of money to the court in exchange for their temporary freedom. If they fail to appear in court, they may forfeit their bail and face additional legal consequences.

DUI Charges Maryland

Now, let’s get to the specifics of bail for a DUI/DWI charge in Maryland. According to the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), a first-time DUI/DWI offense can result in a fine of up to $1,000, imprisonment of up to one year, and/or a license suspension of up to six months. These penalties can be increased for subsequent offenses or if the individual’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is significantly above the legal limit.

DUI Bail Amount

As far as bail is concerned, the amount will depend on the severity of the offense and the individual’s criminal history. For a first-time DUI/DWI offense, the bail amount may be relatively low, perhaps in the range of $500 to $1,000. However, if the individual has a prior criminal record, the bail amount may be higher. For example, if the individual has a previous DUI/DWI conviction or other related charges on their record, the bail amount may be set at a higher level to ensure that they appear in court.

It’s also worth noting that the bail amount may be increased if the individual was involved in an accident or caused injury or property damage while under the influence. In these cases, the court may consider the individual to be a higher flight risk and may set a higher bail amount to ensure their appearance in court.

In addition to the bail amount, the court may also impose certain conditions on the individual’s release. These may include, but are not limited to:

• Requiring the individual to attend alcohol education or treatment programs
• Requiring the individual to abstain from alcohol or drug use
• Requiring the individual to submit to regular alcohol or drug testing
• Requiring the individual to attend AA or other support group meetings

It’s also worth noting that if the individual is unable to afford the bail amount, they may be able to work with a bail bondsman. A bail bondsman is a professional who will post the bail on the individual’s behalf in exchange for a fee, usually around 10% of the total bail amount. However, it’s important to keep in mind that if the individual fails to appear in court, they may be responsible for paying the full bail amount to the bail bondsman, as well as any additional fees and penalties.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the amount of bail for a DUI/DWI charge in Maryland can vary depending on the specifics of the case and the individual’s criminal history. For a first-time offense, the bail amount may be relatively low, but it can increase for subsequent offenses or if the individual was involved in an accident or caused injury or property damage. The court may also impose certain conditions on the individual’s release to ensure compliance with the terms of their bail. If the individual is unable to afford the bail amount, they may be able to work with a bail bondsman to secure their release.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a DUI/DWI in Maryland, it’s important to understand your legal rights and options. Albers and Associates are here to help. Our experienced attorneys have a thorough understanding of Maryland’s DUI/DWI laws and can provide you with the legal representation you need. Don’t let a DUI/DWI charge ruin your future. Contact Albers and Associates today to schedule a consultation and get the help you need.