If law enforcement suspects you of driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI), you may only have time to think about the near-term ramifications such as fines and license suspension. However, a DUI mark on your record will follow you and affect different aspects of...
DUI
Consequences of refusing to take a breath test
The law is clear. In Maryland, when a police officer commands you to take to a portable breath test, there are negative consequences for refusing to comply. Penalties are even more severe for those who take one and fail. When weighing your decision to blow into one of...
When can soft drug use lead to a DUI in Maryland?
Many Marylanders know that drinking alcohol and getting behind the wheel of a motor vehicle can lead to jail time and DUI charges, but what do you know about drugged driving's consequences? Although Maryland has more lenient drug laws than some states, that leniency...
Driving privileges after a Maryland DUI
When facing charges of driving under the influence in Maryland, you likely have concerns about whether you will be able to keep your license. The answer varies based on factors such as age and previous offenses. Learn about driver's license suspension after a Maryland...
A second DUI in five years means steep penalties
There is no doubt that intoxicated driving poses a serious danger on the road, and Maryland law reflects that fact. Even a first offense may mean a $1,000 fine, up to a year in jail and license revocation for up to six months. In recent years, the state has imposed...
Consequences of an underage DUI
You were out with your buddies celebrating a big college football win. You had one drink, but felt you were safe to drive back to your dorm across campus. Despite careful driving, a police officer pulled you over for having a busted tail light. When the officer...
A DUI, loss of license and the ALR procedure
If law enforcement stops you on suspicion of DUI, your first concern will likely be about the penalties you face such as losing your driving privileges. If your blood alcohol level is 0.08% or higher, or if you refuse a breath test, the ALR procedure kicks in and life...
4 medical conditions that may interfere with a DUI breath test
If you have a blood alcohol concentration over 0.08%, it is a violation of law to operate a motor vehicle in Maryland. After stopping your vehicle, an officer may ask you to submit a breath sample for testing. The purpose of this test, of course, is to measure your...
Harsher penalties for first-time and repeat DUI and DWI offenses
Maryland increased its penalties for individuals who receive a drunken or impaired driving charge. Under the Repeat Drunk Driving Offenders Act, judges can order a harsher sentence for both first-time offenders and those convicted of three prior offenses. The Act...
Breathalyzer results are surprisingly inaccurate
Are you ready for a story with a troubling outcome? Let's say you, a man or woman, go to dinner with some friends and pair your meal friendly chatter with two or three glasses of beer or wine. While it's culturally frowned upon, you choose to drive home because you...
