Published on 3/19/2025, 2:14:00 PM
5 Critical Mistakes in DUI Cases That Could Cost You Everything
Facing a DUI charge in Maryland is a stressful ordeal that can have long-lasting impacts on your personal and professional life. At FrizWoods, we have seen how small missteps can lead to major consequences. Here are five critical mistakes that may harm your defense - and why our experienced team is essential on your side.
1. Failing to Challenge Field Sobriety Test Errors
One of the most common errors is not scrutinizing the administration and results of the field sobriety test. Officers may fail to follow proper protocols, resulting in unreliable results. Discrepancies in test execution or misinterpretations of a subject's performance can provide strong grounds to undermine the prosecution's case.
2. Not Requesting or Challenging a Chemical Breath Test
A key mistake is the failure to request a chemical breath test or challenge its administration if done improperly. A breath test, when not performed according to required procedures, may yield inaccurate results that do not reflect your true level of impairment. Experienced attorneys carefully review the calibration, timing, and handling of the chemical breath test to contest evidence that suggests you were impaired beyond the legal limit.
3. Delaying Legal Consultation
Time is critical in DUI cases. Delaying your consultation with a DUI lawyer can mean lost evidence and missed opportunities to challenge the validity of the traffic stop or testing procedures. At FrizWoods, our prompt and proactive approach ensures that every detail - from verifying proper field sobriety test administration to reviewing the timing of your arrest - is preserved and scrutinized from the very beginning.
4. Accepting Plea Deals Without Thorough Analysis
Many defendants rush into accepting plea deals to avoid trial uncertainty. However, plea deals may not serve your long-term interests, especially when charges lead to severe consequences like license suspension or a permanent criminal record. A detailed evaluation of your case might reveal errors or procedural mishandlings that could justify negotiating a better outcome or even a dismissal. For instance, issues with a DUI per se charge or guidance based on first offense DUI guidelines can be critical factors.
5. Overlooking the Impact on Your License and Future
A DUI conviction in Maryland can lead to collateral consequences including a lengthy license suspension, higher insurance premiums, and a lasting criminal record. Ignoring these impacts can affect your employment and overall future. FrizWoods' comprehensive strategy addresses not only the criminal charges but also focuses on minimizing licensing repercussions, as illustrated in our DWI licensing suspension chart.
By avoiding these common mistakes and leveraging the expertise of FrizWoods, you secure a dedicated team that understands Maryland DUI law inside and out. Our attorneys scrutinize every detail-from field sobriety test procedures to the nuances of a chemical breath test and the broader implications of a DUI per se charge-ensuring that every possible defense is explored for the best possible outcome.
