Maryland DUI License Suspension Attorneys
License Suspended? Know Your Options.
One of the most common penalties for a DUI is a license suspension. There are a few factors that help determine how long your license will be suspended. Let’s take a look at these factors and how you can avoid severe punishment when charged with a DUI.
Two Types of Penalties for DUI
When you are charged with a DUI, you will face two criminal proceedings: a criminal hearing in court and an administrative hearing that assesses penalties to your driving record and license. In the criminal hearing, your lawyer will defend your case in order to reduce penalties, which can include fines and jail time.
Administrative Penalties & License Suspension
Administrative penalties for DUI are assessed by the Motor Vehicle Association of Maryland. The state asserts that if you are charged with a DUI, your license will be confiscated and you will be given a temporary Maryland driver’s license to be used until administrative penalties have been decided.
DUI offenders receive a suspension of driving privileges for a specific amount of time depending on their BAC at the time of DUI charge, their criminal history and driving record, and other important details regarding the circumstances of the DUI. The general length of driver’s license suspensions and points assessed for this crime are:
- 1st Offense: Suspension up to 6 months + 12 points added to your license
- 2nd Offense: Suspension up to 12 months + 12 points added to your license
If, at the time of your arrest, you refuse the breathalyzer test, your license can be suspended for up to 120 days for your first offense and one year for a second offense.
In addition to license suspension and points, the MVA can assess further penalties, such as requiring participation in alcohol abuse classes and/or enrollment in Maryland’s Ignition Interlock Program. The latter is a program that requires the placement of an alcohol breath testing device inside your vehicle that keeps the car from starting unless the test concludes that you have had no alcohol before getting in the vehicle. This is also known as an ignition interlock device.
How to Avoid Harsh DUI Penalties in Maryland
The first way to avoid penalties for a crime is, of course, to not commit one in the first place. However, we all make mistakes and deserve a fair trial when our DUI or criminal case goes to court. Albers & Associates is here to coach you through the legal process involving your DUI, and will use our abundant experience in legal defense and DUI to ensure you are not treated unfairly or assessed unjust penalties for your crime.
Contact us for more information on how we can help with your case today.