Arrested for DUI or DWI in Maryland?
Don't face DUI charges alone. Our NHTSA-trained attorneys have helped hundreds of clients avoid convictions, license suspensions, and jail time.
Results based on internal tracking since 2022; outcomes vary. Not a guarantee.
Verified internally; last updated: Mar 8, 2026.
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Arrested for DUI or DWI in Maryland?
Don't face DUI charges alone. Our NHTSA-trained attorneys have helped hundreds of clients avoid convictions, license suspensions, and jail time.
Results based on internal tracking since 2022; outcomes vary. Not a guarantee.
Verified internally; last updated: Mar 8, 2026.
Maryland DUI Lawyer | Top-Rated Criminal Defense Attorneys
Written by Max G. Frizalone. Reviewed by Luke Elliot Woods. | Last updated: February 23, 2026
If you were arrested for DUI or DWI in Maryland, the next steps often involve two tracks: your criminal case in court and your driver's license consequences through the MVA. Many drivers have a limited time window to request an MVA hearing. A lawyer can review whether the stop was lawful, whether field sobriety tests were administered correctly, and whether breath or blood testing procedures were followed. The right defense strategy depends on the facts, your record, and the county. Start here: DUI vs DWI differences | First-time DUI FAQ | Repeat offender DUI | Maryland DUI penalty chart
A DUI charge in Maryland can be overwhelming. The potential loss of your license, hefty fines, and the prospect of jail time can change your life overnight. You do not have to face these challenges alone. At FrizWoods, we provide top-tier DUI defense across Maryland. Both DUI and DWI cases require a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who understands the science behind testing, the rules governing traffic stops, and the strategies that lead to dismissals.
If you are under 21 and between 18 and 20, read our Ages 18-20 DUI guide.
We defend DUI and DWI cases across Prince George's County, Howard County, Anne Arundel County, Calvert County, Baltimore County, Montgomery County, and courts throughout central Maryland. Our attorneys appear regularly in District and Circuit Courts in Glen Burnie, Annapolis, Upper Marlboro, Hyattsville, Rockville, and Ellicott City. With offices in Upper Marlboro, Columbia, Severna Park, and Chesapeake Beach, we are close to wherever your case is being heard.
Meet Our NHTSA Trained Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyers
Max Frizalone
Built a solid reputation as a DUI specialist by securing acquittals by jury and judge in numerous counties.
- Completed NHTSA DWI Detection & Standardized Field Sobriety Testing and NHTSA Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement Training (ARIDE)
- Committed member of the National College for DUI Defense
- Track record of not-guilty verdicts and charge reductions in DUI cases.
Luke Woods
Seasoned DUI litigator with hundreds of criminal traffic trials.
- Served in multiple roles within the Army Judge Advocate General's Corps (Army JAGS) and as a District Public Defender for Calvert County.
- Has tried hundreds of criminal traffic offenses, including countless DUI cases.
- NHTSA-trained and a committed member of the National College for DUI Defense.
At FrizWoods, we don't just handle DUI cases, we specialize in them. Both Max Frizalone and Luke Woods have been trained by police officers using the same National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) DWI Detection & Standardized Field Sobriety protocols that law enforcement officers receive. This gives them an insider's understanding of how officers are taught to identify impaired drivers-along with the potential pitfalls and errors that can arise during a stop.
They are also active members of the National College for DUI Defense, regularly attending advanced trainings to stay up to date on the latest DUI strategies. This means you benefit from cutting-edge defense tactics and attorneys who truly understand every aspect of DUI law.
Our Proven Approach to DUI Defense
Every Maryland DUI case is unique, but our proven approach to DUI defense remains consistent. We meticulously analyze every detail of your arrest, from the initial traffic stop to the chemical test results.
We believe in a proactive defense strategy. We don't just wait for the court date; we start building your defense immediately. This often includes:
- Challenging the Stop: Was there probable cause for the officer to pull you over?
- Analyzing Field Sobriety Tests: Were the tests administered correctly according to NHTSA standards?
- Scrutinizing Chemical Tests: Was the breathalyzer calibrated properly? Was the blood draw handled correctly?
- Negotiating with Prosecutors: We leverage our reputation and experience to negotiate favorable plea deals when appropriate.
- Preparing for Trial: We are always ready to take your case to trial if it means securing the best possible outcome.
This comprehensive approach has led to numerous case dismissals and acquittals for our clients.
Understanding Maryland DUI Laws
Maryland has strict DUI laws, and navigating them can be complex. There are two main offenses related to drunk driving:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI): This is the more serious charge, typically involving a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
- Driving While Impaired (DWI): This is a lesser charge, often involving a BAC between 0.07% and 0.08%, or other evidence of impairment.
Penalties for DUI in Maryland
The penalties for a DUI conviction in Maryland can be severe, including:
- Jail Time: Up to one year for a first offense.
- Fines: Up to $1,000 for a first offense.
- License Suspension: Mandatory license suspension, with the length depending on your BAC and prior offenses.
- Ignition Interlock: You may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
Repeat offenders face even harsher penalties, including mandatory jail time and longer license suspensions.
Why Choose FrizWoods for Your DUI Defense?
When you choose FrizWoods, you're choosing a team of dedicated legal professionals who will fight tirelessly for your rights.
- Experience: Decades of combined experience in criminal defense.
- Results: A proven track record of success in DUI cases.
- Client-Focused: We prioritize your needs and keep you informed every step of the way.
- Accessibility: Available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns.
Don't let a DUI charge define your future. Contact FrizWoods today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate this challenging time.
Frequently Asked Questions About DUI in Maryland
What should I do if I'm pulled over for a DUI?
Remain calm, be polite to the officer, and provide your license and registration. You have the right to remain silent and refuse field sobriety tests. Contact a DUI lawyer as soon as possible.
Can I refuse a breathalyzer test?
Yes, you can refuse a breathalyzer test, but Maryland's "implied consent" law means that refusal can lead to automatic license suspension. An attorney can help you understand the specific consequences in your case.
What is PBJ and can it keep a DUI off my record?
Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) removes the conviction and places you on probation, so you are not 'convicted.' It is discretionary and depends on the facts and your record.
Can a DUI charge be dismissed in Maryland criminal cases?
Yes, a DUI charge can be dismissed if there are flaws in the prosecution's case, such as improper procedures during the arrest or unreliable evidence.
Can I take my alcohol classes online?
Yes, but only if they are certified by the state. Many generic online classes are not accepted by Maryland courts or the MVA. Read our guide: Can I Take Online DUI Classes in Maryland?
DUI Defense by County
We handle DUI cases in courts across central Maryland. Find your county or city below:
- Anne Arundel County: Anne Arundel DUI Lawyer | Annapolis DUI Lawyer | Glen Burnie DUI Lawyer | Severna Park DUI Lawyer | Pasadena DUI Lawyer | Arnold DUI Lawyer | Odenton DUI Lawyer | Crofton DUI Lawyer
- Howard County: Howard County DUI Lawyer | Columbia DUI Lawyer | Ellicott City DUI Lawyer | Elkridge DUI Lawyer | West Friendship DUI Lawyer | Savage DUI Lawyer
- Prince George's County: PG County DUI Lawyer | Hyattsville DUI Lawyer | Bowie DUI Lawyer | Laurel DUI Lawyer | College Park DUI Lawyer | Largo DUI Lawyer
- Baltimore Area: Baltimore DUI Lawyer | Towson DUI Lawyer | Dundalk DUI Lawyer | Cockeysville DUI Lawyer | Catonsville DUI Lawyer | Owings Mills DUI Lawyer | Randallstown DUI Lawyer
- Montgomery County: Bethesda DUI Lawyer | Rockville DUI Lawyer | Silver Spring DUI Lawyer | Gaithersburg DUI Lawyer | Germantown DUI Lawyer | Wheaton DUI Lawyer
- Calvert County: Calvert County DUI Lawyer | Chesapeake Beach DUI Lawyer | Lusby DUI Lawyer
- Charles County: Charles County DUI Lawyer
- Southern Maryland: Saint Mary's County DUI Lawyer
- Other Areas: Frederick DUI Lawyer | Bel Air DUI Lawyer | Harford County
Our DUI Defense Office Locations
Upper Marlboro Office
14513 Main Street, Ste B, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
Phone: (301) 720-1917
Get directions on Google Maps
Columbia Office
6304 Woodside Court, Suite 110, Columbia, MD 21046
Phone: (410) 346-9384
Get directions on Google Maps
Severna Park Office
540 Ritchie Hwy Suite 301, Severna Park, MD 21146
Phone: (410) 883-5667
Get directions on Google Maps
Chesapeake Beach Office
9120 Chesapeake Ave #201, North Beach, MD 20714
Phone: (877) 343-1031
All offices available by appointment. Call our 24/7 attorney line at (877) 343-1031 for immediate help after a DUI arrest.
Reviews of Our Maryland DUI Lawyers
Read what our clients have to say about their experiences with FrizWoods LLC. Their stories highlight our dedication to achieving favorable outcomes in DUI cases: