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Understanding Third DUI Charges In Maryland
A third DUI offense in Maryland is a very serious matter and without skilled legal representation, could cost you more than you might think. A repeat DUI charge is an immediate red flag to the courts because it shows that the individual has not learned their lesson and continues to endanger Maryland motorists while driving intoxicated. Furthermore, prosecutors will look closely into the circumstances surrounding the case as well as the length of time that prior DUIs occurred. If previous DUI charges are closer in time to the current event, then it is feasible for the consequences to be more severe. Although third-time DUI charges are serious, there are opportunities that can be taken in the courtroom to reduce penalties with the help of an experienced Baltimore DUI defense attorney. If you’re facing a third DUI offense in Maryland, contact Hyatt & Goldbloom today for a free consultation.
Previous DUI Offenses In Maryland
The circumstances of previous DUI convictions play a big role in the penalties handed down for a third DUI offense in Maryland. For example, if the previous two DUI convictions occurred within five years of the most recent DUI charge, then the individual would face mandatory minimum incarceration of five days. If an individual has three DUI convictions within five years, then the mandatory minimum incarceration is increased to 10 days.
The described penalties are potential consequences for a third-time DUI charge. However, it’s important to remember that although the state files a subsequent offender notice and indicates to the court that the individual charged with a third DUI in Maryland is eligible for a three-year prison sentence, it does not that is the final sentencing decision. For example, if you are charged with a third DUI offense but the prior first and second DUI offenses were 10 or more years ago, then it’s likely that the court will hand down more lenient penalties compared to someone who has two previous DUI charges less than 5 years ago. There are many nuances that come into play in these types of DUI offenses, that’s why it’s crucial to have a skilled and aggressive DUI defense attorney who can plead your case and help you obtain the best possible outcome.
Penalties For A Third DUI In Maryland
The penalties for DUI and DWI in Maryland for a first offense are serious. But with every subsequent DUI conviction, Maryland DUI law strengthens the penalties. For example, in the case of second and third DUI charges, you can expect to see an increase in fines and terms of imprisonment compared to a first DUI offense. Not to mention, an individual’s ability to legally drive will be significantly altered due to either suspension or revocation of their driver’s license. Due to Maryland DUI law strengthening the consequences for a third-time DUI charge, it’s crucial to find a repeat DUI defense attorney who has experience representing these types of cases and can help you avoid the maximum penalties of a conviction. Third DUI penalties in Maryland include the following:
- Up to 3 years in prison
- A fine of up to $3,000
- Administratively, 12 points may be assessed with the MVA and the driver’s license may be revoked
On top of the penalties mentioned above, a third-time DUI charge can lead to minimum jail terms, driver’s license suspension, installation of an ignition interlock device (IID), alcohol and drug treatment, probation, high-risk insurance, and many more reputation consequences. If you’re facing a third DUI offense in Maryland, obtaining qualified legal representation is the best thing that you can do to avoid wrongful conviction or reduce the legal penalties associated with a third DUI conviction.
Maryland Driver’s License Consequences
In Maryland, the court is required to report all DUI convictions to the Motor Vehicle Administration. For a third DUI offense in Maryland, the state will revoke your driver’s license for one year after the conviction. However, the license suspension can be longer in some circumstances and there can be additional penalties for a third DUI charge if the driver refused a sobriety test or had an abnormally high BAC level at the time of the arrest. It’s common for two similar DUI cases to be penalized in different manners. The specific details of your case play a large role in determining consequences as well as the skill and experience your criminal defense attorney brings to the courtroom.
Maryland’s Look-Back Period For DUI Charges
In Maryland, the courts will review your driving record for the past 5 years to check for DUI convictions before determining if your current conviction will be treated as your second or third DUI offense. As mentioned before, the consequences for repeat DUI offenses can often be negotiated and you may be able to avoid harsh penalties with the right defense strategy. That’s why before you plead guilty and accept the standard penalties, you should always speak with a Baltimore DUI lawyer first to review the facts of your case and determine the best approach. There are plenty of DUI defense tactics that can be deployed to help you achieve a favorable outcome. For example, mistakes may have been made during the arrest that can present reasonable doubt in the courtroom. At Hyatt & Goldbloom, our legal team is well-versed in law enforcement procedures and tactics, our attorneys will know what to look for and how to present your case to help you achieve the optimal result.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do You Go To Jail For A 3rd DUI In Maryland?
For a third DUI offense in Maryland, you will most likely be facing 3 years imprisonment, a fine up to $3,000, and an administrative 12-point mark against your driver’s license, which could lead to suspension, revocation, or restriction of your driving privileges. If you are convicted of a 3rd DUI charge, there is a good chance that you will face jail time, however, avoiding jail is not impossible. Our skilled legal team routinely represents repeat DUI offenders and has successfully achieved outcomes that do not include jail time. If you’re facing a third DUI in Maryland, you must speak with a skilled DUI defense lawyer as soon as possible.
Do I Need An Attorney For A Third DUI In Maryland?
Considering how serious the penalties for a third DUI offense in Maryland are, it’s urgent that you obtain a skilled and aggressive DUI defense attorney to represent your case. If you’re facing a third DUI charge, it’s crucial that you exhaust every option to obtain a reduced or mitigated charge rather than the maximum penalty. Our legal team at Hyatt & Goldbloom provides the knowledge and experience necessary to walk you through the fine details of a third DUI and increase the possibility of a favorable decision. Call us today for a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
Contact A Third DUI Defense Attorney Today
If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence and facing a third DUI offense in Maryland, speak with a DUI attorney as soon as possible. The consequences of a third DUI are serious, especially if you have prior convictions that are recent. Luckily, a qualified criminal defense attorney at Hyatt & Goldbloom can help you understand how the law applies to your case and guide you throughout the legal process to achieve the best possible outcome. Call our office today for a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.