Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Maryland. If you are pulled over by law enforcement for suspected DUI, it is important to know what to expect during the arrest process. Being aware of the steps involved in a DUI arrest can help you prepare for what is to come and make informed decisions throughout the process. In this blog post, we will outline what to expect during a DUI arrest in Maryland.
Traffic Stop
The first step in a DUI arrest is being pulled over by law enforcement. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including erratic driving or suspicion of driving under the influence. When pulled over, remain calm and cooperative. Provide your driver’s license, registration, and insurance information when asked. If you are asked if you have been drinking, you have the right to remain silent and should exercise that right.
Field Sobriety Tests
If law enforcement suspects that you may be driving under the influence, they may ask you to perform field sobriety tests. These tests are designed to evaluate your coordination and balance and include tasks such as standing on one leg or walking in a straight line. It is important to note that these tests can be subjective, and the results can be challenged in court.
Breathalyzer Test
If law enforcement has probable cause to believe that you are driving under the influence, they may ask you to take a breathalyzer test. This test measures your blood alcohol content (BAC) and provides an objective measure of your level of intoxication. In Maryland, if you refuse to take a breathalyzer test, you can be subject to penalties including suspension of your driver’s license.
Arrest and Booking
If you are arrested for DUI, you will be taken into custody and brought to a police station or jail for booking. At this point, you will be fingerprinted, photographed, and asked to provide additional information such as your name and address. You will also be given the opportunity to make a phone call to a friend or family member.
Court Proceedings
After being arrested for DUI, you will need to attend court proceedings. This typically includes an arraignment, where you will enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. If you plead guilty or are found guilty at trial, you will be sentenced by the court. Penalties for DUI in Maryland can include fines, jail time, and suspension of your driver’s license.
License Suspension
If you are arrested for DUI in Maryland, your driver’s license may be suspended by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). This is a separate administrative process that is independent of the criminal proceedings. If you refuse to take a breathalyzer test or if your BAC is above the legal limit of 0.08%, your license can be suspended immediately. If your license is suspended, you may be eligible for a restricted license that allows you to drive to and from work, school, and other approved locations.
Ignition Interlock Program
In some cases, the court may require you to participate in Maryland’s Ignition Interlock Program as a condition of your sentence. This program requires you to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, which measures your breath alcohol content before allowing you to start the engine. If the device detects alcohol, the engine will not start. You will be responsible for the costs of installing and maintaining the device.
Criminal Record
A DUI conviction in Maryland will result in a criminal record that can have long-lasting consequences. A criminal record can make it difficult to find employment, housing, and to obtain credit. It can also affect your ability to obtain professional licenses and security clearances. It is important to understand the potential consequences of a DUI conviction and to take steps to mitigate these consequences.
If you have been arrested for DUI in Maryland, the criminal defense attorneys at Alpert Schreyer can help. Our team of experienced lawyers has a proven track record of successfully defending clients against DUI charges in Maryland. Here are some ways that Alpert Schreyer can help you in a DUI arrest case.
Protect your rights: At Alpert Schreyer, we understand that being arrested for DUI can be a stressful and intimidating experience. Our attorneys will work to protect your legal rights throughout the entire process, from the moment of your arrest to the final resolution of your case.
Investigate the evidence: We will thoroughly investigate the evidence against you, including the results of any field sobriety tests or breathalyzer tests. Our attorneys have the knowledge and experience to challenge the validity of these tests and to uncover any potential flaws in the prosecution’s case.
Develop a strong defense strategy: Based on our investigation of the evidence, we will develop a strong defense strategy that is tailored to your specific case. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for you, whether that means negotiating a plea deal or taking your case to trial.
Minimize the consequences: If you are convicted of DUI in Maryland, you may face a range of consequences, including fines, jail time, and suspension of your driver’s license. We will work to minimize these consequences as much as possible, including seeking alternative sentencing options such as probation or community service.
Provide support and guidance: At Alpert Schreyer, we understand that a DUI arrest can be a traumatic experience. Our attorneys will provide you with the support and guidance you need throughout the entire process, from the initial consultation to the final resolution of your case.
If you have been arrested for DUI in Maryland, the criminal defense attorneys at Alpert Schreyer can help. We have the knowledge, experience, and resources to provide you with the aggressive defense you need to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.