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Odenton DUI Lawyer - Skilled DUI Defense in Maryland

If you have been charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Impaired (DWI) in Odenton, Maryland, you need an experienced DUI defense attorney to protect your rights. FrizWoods Criminal Defense provides aggressive legal representation for clients facing DUI-related charges in Anne Arundel County.

Understanding Maryland DUI and DWI Laws (Transportation section 21-902)

Maryland law under Transportation section 21-902 establishes multiple alcohol-related driving offenses:

  • Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (DUI) - section 21-902(a)

    • This is the most serious offense, charged when a driver�s normal coordination is substantially impaired by alcohol.
    • No specific blood alcohol concentration threshold is required for a conviction.
    • Maximum penalties for a first offense include up to one year in jail, a one thousand dollar fine, and twelve points on your driving record.

  • Driving Under the Influence Per Se - section 21-902(a)(2)

    • This applies when a driver�s blood alcohol concentration is zero point zero eight percent or higher, regardless of visible impairment.
    • Carries the same penalties as DUI.

  • Driving While Impaired by Alcohol (DWI) - section 21-902(b)

    • This is a lesser offense, where alcohol impairs but does not substantially affect driving ability.
    • Maximum penalties for a first offense include up to sixty days in jail, a five hundred dollar fine, and eight points on your record.

  • Driving While Impaired by Drugs or a Combination of Drugs and Alcohol - section 21-902(c) and (d)

    • These charges apply when impairment results from controlled substances or medication.
    • Penalties depend on the type of substance and the driver�s history.

Maryland DUI Penalties and License Consequences

Maryland imposes strict penalties for DUI and DWI convictions, including:

  • Jail time ranging from sixty days to one year depending on the offense.
  • Fines up to two thousand dollars for repeat offenses.
  • License suspension and revocation, with points added to your driving record.
  • Mandatory ignition interlock device installation for certain offenders.

Additionally, Maryland�s Ignition Interlock Program may be required for repeat offenders or those refusing a breath test.

Defenses Against DUI Charges in Odenton

Our Odenton DUI lawyers employ strategic defenses, including:

  1. Challenging the Traffic Stop � Was there reasonable suspicion for the stop?
  2. Disputing Field Sobriety Tests � These tests are subjective and unreliable.
  3. Questioning BAC Test Accuracy � Breathalyzer errors and improper calibration can invalidate results.
  4. Examining Police Conduct � Were your constitutional rights violated during the arrest?

Anne Arundel County DUI Court Information

Most Odenton DUI cases are heard in Anne Arundel County District Court:

Anne Arundel County District Court
251 Rowe Blvd, Annapolis, MD 21401
Find more court information here

Contact an Odenton DUI Lawyer Today

A DUI conviction can impact your job, driving privileges, and future. At FrizWoods Criminal Defense, we fight aggressively for the best possible outcome. Call now for a free consultation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I refuse a breathalyzer test in Maryland?

Under Maryland's implied consent law (section 16-205.1), refusing a breathalyzer test leads to an automatic two hundred seventy-day license suspension for a first offense.

Will I lose my license for a first DUI offense?

A first-time DUI conviction may result in a license suspension. However, options such as a restricted license or the ignition interlock program may allow you to continue driving under specific conditions.

Can I get a Probation Before Judgment for DUI?

Probation Before Judgment may be available for first-time offenders but does not remove administrative penalties like license suspensions.

Can a DUI be expunged in Maryland?

Under Maryland law, DUI convictions are not generally eligible for expungement. However, under the new expungement law effective October 1, 2024, certain DUI convictions may be expunged after fifteen years if no additional violations occur.

How long does a DUI stay on my record in Maryland?

A DUI conviction remains on your criminal record permanently, but some charges may be eligible for expungement under certain conditions.

Related Pages

Arrested for DUI in Odenton? Call now for experienced legal representation.