Towson DUI Lawyer for Licensed Professionals

DUI Defense for Licensed Professionals in Towson, MD

In Maryland, licensed professionals, including doctors, lawyers, nurses, and other professionals, face significant risks when charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI). Unlike some other drivers, professionals may face career setbacks and other concerns if they are accused of drunk driving. A DUI or DWI conviction may result in consequences such as suspension or revocation of a professional license, loss of employment, and damage to a person's professional reputation.

Given the stakes involved in these cases, it is crucial to seek the help of a skilled DUI defense attorney who understands the unique challenges faced by licensed professionals. Attorney Kirk Seaman is knowledgeable in all aspects of DUI and DWI defense, and he will work to protect both your driving privileges and your professional license. If you are a licensed professional facing a DUI or DWI charge, do not wait to seek legal help. Our office is available 24/7, and we are ready to assist with your defense.

How a DUI Conviction Can Affect Licensed Professionals

People who hold professional licenses are often held to a higher standard of conduct, both personally and professionally. When a professional is convicted of DUI, the consequences extend far beyond the legal penalties that apply to all drivers. Professionals may face additional scrutiny from licensing boards, which can result in disciplinary actions that may include fines, mandatory rehabilitation programs, the suspension or revocation of a professional license, the denial of a license application, or the refusal to renew an existing license.

In Maryland, licensing boards are tasked with ensuring that professionals meet ethical standards and maintain the public's trust. A DUI conviction can be seen as a violation of these standards, prompting an investigation by the relevant licensing authority. Depending on the profession, the consequences can vary:

• Medical Professionals: Doctors, nurses, and others in the medical field may be required to report a DUI conviction to their licensing boards. The Maryland Board of Physicians, for example, has the authority to take disciplinary action against doctors who are convicted of crimes, including DUI. Nurses may face similar repercussions from the Maryland Board of Nursing, which may consider a DUI conviction as evidence of unprofessional conduct.
• Legal Professionals: For attorneys in Maryland, a DUI conviction can trigger an investigation by the Maryland Attorney Grievance Commission. The Commission may determine that the attorney's conduct has brought disrepute to the legal profession, which could lead to sanctions ranging from a reprimand to disbarment. Even if a DUI does not result in direct disciplinary action, it could still affect the attorney's reputation, making it difficult to attract or retain clients.
• Other Licensed Professionals: Accountants, engineers, educators, or other professionals may also face disciplinary actions from their respective licensing boards. These boards may consider a DUI conviction as indicative of poor judgment or unprofessional behavior, leading to sanctions that could jeopardize a person's career. In some cases, these professionals may be required to complete substance abuse programs or undergo regular monitoring to ensure compliance with professional standards.

DWI Charges and Their Impact on Licensed Professionals

In Maryland, Driving While Impaired (DWI) is a separate offense from DUI, but it carries its own set of penalties that can be just as serious for licensed professionals. A person may be charged with DWI if they are found to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.07% or less, but their ability to operate a vehicle is noticeably impaired due to the use of alcohol, drugs, or other substances.

For licensed professionals, a DWI conviction can have repercussions that are similar to a DUI conviction. Although a DWI charge may carry less severe legal penalties than DUI, the impact on a licensed professional's career can be just as damaging. Therefore, it is crucial for licensed professionals facing DWI charges to obtain legal representation immediately.

How a DUI/DWI Defense Attorney Can Help

Given the potentially devastating impact that a conviction for DUI or DWI can have on your professional license and your career, it is essential to seek the help of an experienced DUI defense attorney. At Kirk Seaman, LLC, we can:

• Challenge the Evidence: Our team can review the circumstances of your arrest to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution's case, such as improper administration of field sobriety tests or issues with the accuracy of breathalyzer test results. By challenging the evidence, we may be able to have the charges dismissed or reduced.
• Respond to Licensing Boards: In addition to defending you in court, our team can represent you in disciplinary proceedings before your licensing board. This representation can be crucial, ensuring that you can negotiate terms that will allow you to retain your license while fulfilling any conditions imposed by the board.
• Protect Your Professional Reputation: We understand the importance of protecting your reputation, and we will work to keep the details of your case as private as possible. We may be able to negotiate plea agreements that avoid public disclosure of your conviction or seek alternative sentencing options that do not involve a permanent record.

Contact Our Towson, Maryland Licensed Professional DUI Lawyer

If you are a licensed professional facing DUI or DWI charges in Maryland, the consequences could be life-changing. Protect your career, your license, and your reputation by working with a skilled Towson DUI defense attorney who understands the unique challenges you face. Contact us at 410-837-6077 today to discuss your case in a free initial consultation.