Overlea DUI Defense Lawyer

Drunk Driving Defense Attorney in Overlea, Maryland

Being arrested for drunk driving in Overlea, Maryland can be an intimidating experience, and you may face a number of severe consequences related to the arrest, including the suspension of your driver's license, and a possible conviction on DUI charges. Maryland's laws prohibiting impaired driving are stringent, and the penalties for violating them can significantly impact your life. Whether you are dealing with a DUI, DWI, or another related offense, it is crucial to understand the potential repercussions and the steps you can take during your defense.

With more than three decades of legal experience, attorney Kirk Seaman has extensive knowledge and skill in the area of DUI defense. His deep understanding of Maryland's DUI laws ensures that he can craft strategic defenses tailored to each client's unique circumstances. If you need to fight against a conviction on drunk driving charges, you can rely on Attorney Seaman's thorough preparation, attention to detail, and unwavering support throughout the legal process.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

In Maryland, a person can be charged with a DUI if they were allegedly operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Maryland law imposes strict penalties for DUI. A first DUI offense may carry a sentence of up to one year in prison, a maximum fine of $1,000, and a six-month driver's license revocation. Second, third, and additional DUI offenses are likely to lead to even harsher consequences upon conviction, including longer jail time, higher fines, and extended license revocation periods.

Driving While Impaired (DWI)

DWI is a lesser charge when compared to DUI, but it is still a serious offense. A person can be charged with DWI if their blood alcohol concentration is 0.07% or lower, but they are found to be impaired by alcohol or drugs to a degree that affects their ability to drive safely. A first DWI offense may lead to a sentence of up to two months in prison, a fine of $500, and a six-month driver's license suspension. As with DUI charges, the penalties increase significantly for repeat offenders.

Driving Under the Influence of Drugs

A person can also be charged with DUI involving drugs, including marijuana, if they had drugs in their system while operating a vehicle. DUI charges may apply if a driver had been using prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, or illegal substances and was impaired and unable to operate a vehicle safely. The penalties for this offense are the same as those that would apply for DUI or DWI charges related to alcohol use. In some cases, people may face additional penalties related to the possession or use of illegal drugs.

Underage DUI

In the state of Maryland, the laws have zero tolerance for people under the age of 21 who drive while they are intoxicated. These drivers can be charged with underage DUI if they operate a vehicle while their system has even the slightest amount of traceable alcohol. Penalties for an underage DUI can include fines, community service, obligatory participation in an alcohol education program, and suspension of a driver's license.

Aggravated DUI

In DUI cases where certain aggravating factors are present, more serious penalties may apply upon conviction. Aggravating factors might include a BAC that is .15% or higher, an accident in which someone was injured or killed, or a minor passenger in a person's vehicle when they were driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Aggravated DUI charges carry much stiffer penalties, including longer jail sentences, larger fines, and extended periods of license suspension or revocation.

Contact Our Overlea, MD Drunk Driving Charges Attorney

If you have been arrested for intoxicated driving charges in Overlea, Maryland, it is essential to have an experienced lawyer on your side. A DUI or DWI conviction can have long-lasting effects on your life, including your ability to drive, your employment prospects, and your personal reputation. Our team is committed to providing you with the strong defense you need to protect your rights and your future. For legal help, give us a call at 410-837-6077 or contact us online to schedule a complimentary consultation. Do not wait—reach out to our office as soon as possible to get started on your defense.