Drunk driving is taken very seriously across the United States. In Maryland, the consequences for a DUI conviction are harsh to ensure those who are arrested do not make the same mistake again. Penalties increase for every time a person is arrested within a five year period starting from their first conviction under DWI Law in Timonium MD.
Penalties for the First Offense
A first conviction for a person will lead to up to one year jail, up to $1000 in fines, and a minimum six months driving suspension. A person’s charge can be considered a first offense if it’s the first time they’re ever arrested for a DUI or if it has been at least five years since a previous arrest.
Penalties for the Second Offense
If a person is arrested again for a DUI within five years, they face up to two years in jail, up to $2,000 in fines, and up to a one-year suspension of their driver’s license. When they are able to drive again, an IID (interlock ignition device) is required for a period of time so they cannot start a vehicle if they have been drinking.
Penalties for the Third Offense
A third arrest within the five year period can lead to up to three years in jail, up to $3,000 in fines, an 18-month minimum suspension of their driver’s license, and an IID requirement for a period of time after they are allowed to drive again. The driver’s license suspension in this instance is a minimum, not a maximum, so their license could be suspended for a longer period of time.
Additional Penalties May Apply
It’s important to remember that these are the basic penalties for a DUI. Administrative penalties, like those for refusing the BAC (blood alcohol content) test, can apply, as can penalties for causing an accident, driving with children in the car, or other actions that lead to a more serious charge.
If you have been arrested and charged with drunk driving under the DWI Law in Timonium MD, it’s important you hire a lawyer immediately to help you avoid the maximum penalties. Click here to find a lawyer you can speak with about the case right away. You can also visit them on Facebook.
