DUI, DWI, and drunk driving attorney Stephen P. Shepard of Shepard Law in Baltimore County, MD

How to Combat Drunk Driving Charges in Maryland

Facing drunk driving charges in Maryland can be a daunting experience. At Shepard Law, we understand the serious consequences that come with a DUI or DWI conviction. This article will provide valuable insights into defending against these charges and protecting your rights.

Understanding Maryland’s Drunk Driving Laws

In Maryland, driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while impaired (DWI) are serious offenses because of the potential consequences that they carry. The State employs strict laws and penalties to combat drunk driving. A DUI charge typically occurs when a driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, while a DWI can be issued for a lesser BAC.

Immediate Steps to Take After a DUI Arrest

If you have been arrested for suspicion of drunk driving in Maryland, it is crucial to take immediate action:

  1. Exercise your right to remain silent
  2. Politely decline field sobriety tests if you haven’t already performed them
  3. Request to speak with an attorney before answering any questions

These steps can significantly impact the strength of your defense later on.

Challenging the Traffic Stop

One effective strategy in combating drunk driving charges is to challenge the validity of the initial traffic stop. Law enforcement must have reasonable articulable suspicion that a crime is occurring to pull you over. If the stop was conducted without proper cause, any evidence gathered afterward may be inadmissible in court.

Questioning Breathalyzer Results

Breathalyzer tests are not infallible. Various factors can affect their accuracy, including:

  • Improper calibration of the device
  • Interference from certain medical conditions
  • Interference with the device by surrounding electrical equipment
  • The presence of mouth alcohol from recent drinking or regurgitation

An experienced attorney can scrutinize the breathalyzer results and potentially have them excluded as evidence.

Examining the Standard Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs)

The standard field sobriety tests (SFSTs) used by law enforcement to detect driver impairment are subjective in nature and can be influenced by many factors unrelated to alcohol consumption, such as:

  • Physical disabilities or injuries
  • Nervousness
  • Uneven testing surfaces
  • Mental health conditions
  • Improper test instructions given
  • Improper test administration

An experienced drunk driving attorney can challenge the administration and interpretation of these tests to weaken the prosecution’s case.

Exploring Alternative Resolutions

In some cases, such as when getting the charges dismissed is not possible, it may be possible to negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options, such as:

These alternatives can help minimize the impact of a drunk driving charge on your life and future.

Navigating the complexities of Maryland’s drunk driving laws requires expertise and experience. At Shepard Law, our dedicated attorney has a proven track record of defending clients against DUI and DWI charges. We work tirelessly to protect your rights, preserve your driving privileges, and minimize the potential consequences of a conviction.

Don’t Face Drunk Driving Charges Alone

If you’ve been charged with drunk driving in Baltimore County, Maryland, time is of the essence. Contact Shepard Law today at (410) 648-4008 for a free, confidential consultation. Our family-operated firm in Towson, Maryland is committed to providing professional, affordable, and effective legal representation. Let us put our experience to work for you and help combat your drunk driving charges.

Remember, a drunk driving charge doesn’t have to ruin your future. With the right legal strategy and representation, it is possible to fight these charges effectively and move forward with your life.

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