What to Know If You've Been Charged With DUI in Waldorf, Maryland

A DUI charge in Southern Maryland can move quickly. The window to protect yourself and your license is actually quite brief.

At Troxler and Troxler Law Firm, located at 2670 Crain Highway, Suite 525, Waldorf, Maryland, we've handled hundreds of cases. In this article, we take a look at what steps you should take in the wake of a DUI charge.

DUI Charges Are Serious

First, it's important to understand that driving under the influence charges are not an automatic win for the prosecution. Even if you did fail a blood or breathalyzer test, there can be real-world implications if you don't take it seriously.

Potential jail time is on the table, but so is job loss and the condition of your future employability. If this is a repeat offense, the penalties will typically become steeper.

Experienced attorneys are able to challenge the charges at multiple points. These can include everything from the legitimacy of the traffic stop itself to the testing procedures.

For these reasons, it's a good idea to avoid accepting a plea before you've had an attorney review the situation. While your lawyer may ultimately direct you toward a plea agreement, a full understanding of the circumstances and options available can help you achieve the best possible results.

A Two-Track Process

Maryland has what is called a dual-track system. This involves a criminal case, which is handled through arraignment, pretrial, and possible trial protocols. This runs separately from the MVA process, or Motor Vehicle Administration.

The MVA side of things is focused on the future legality of the accused's driving. In Maryland, when someone fails or refuses an alcohol test, they face potential automatic license suspension by the MVA.

Deadlines can be quite strict, with a request for an administrative hearing needing to take place within 30 days. If it does not, the hearing is denied outright.

If you do not request this hearing within 30 days, however, you may experience automatic suspension prior to the hearing itself.

In the entire DUI framework, this is the most time-sensitive element of the experience.

Types of DUI/DWI

It's important to understand that there are different kinds of DUI or DWI scenarios that could be relevant to your case.

A low BAC count for a first-time offender will be handled differently than someone who is well over the limit or who has been arrested for DUIs in the past.

Your age, as in whether you're above or below the legal limit, and even your job can also be a factor. For example, if you are a commercial driver, even driving your personal vehicle under the influence can compromise your ability to work.

In all cases, the ensuing litigation is fact-specific. In other words, the prosecution and your defense team will tailor their responses to what happened at the traffic stop and how it relates to your personal history.

Common Questions

Now that we've covered the basics, let's take a look at a few frequently asked questions.

Are out-of-state drivers subject to Maryland DUI protocol?

Yes, out-of-state drivers are subject to the laws of the state where they are pulled over. If they are charged within Maryland limits, the state may also report the offense back to their home state.

Can you face jail-time for a first DUI?

In Maryland, you can face jail time even if it is your first DUI. The maximum penalty for a DUI is up to one year in jail. That penalty can double if there was a minor in the vehicle. That said, in most cases that lack an aggravating factor, jail-time is usually avoidable.

Probation Before Judgment outcomes are ideal for first offenders, allowing you to keep the verdict off of your record provided you complete the court-required steps.

Are DUIs a permanent part of your record?

DUIs do not have to be a permanent aspect of your record, though it will depend on the outcome of your case. Dismissals and acquittals will naturally keep the DUI off your record, but probation before judgment outcomes can as well.

Will I be able to drive after my DUI?

The answer to that question is also outcome-dependent. Some people have limited driving privileges following a DUI. For example, you may still be allowed to drive to work on a restricted license.

There are also ignition interlock programs that can allow you to continue using your vehicle, provided that you can verify your sobriety before doing so. Again, these pathways will depend on the specifics of your case.

Why Choose Troxler & Troxler?

We are a local firm built upon practical experience. Our firm offers flexible consultations to work around your job and schedule.

Remember that if you are facing a DUI charge, time truly is of the essence. Reach out today to get the ball rolling on your defense.