Fighting Penalties of Fourth DUI in Baltimore, Maryland with Drunk Driving Defense (Part A)

Being arrested and convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in Maryland can significantly alter your life, especially if it’s your fourth DUI in Maryland. At this time, it’s important that you have a thorough understanding of your legal rights, including the right to refuse a Breathalyzer test. Before you accept harsh punishment, you should speak with a Baltimore, Maryland drunk driving defense law firm.

When a Police Officer Pulls You Over

When you get pulled over under suspicion of DUI, you will be asked to take a Breathalyzer test, and by all means, you can say, “no.” If you are a prior offender it may actually be a good decision to refuse this test. However, there are consequences.

A refusal is considered a criminal violation that can lead to a stiffer sentence. In Maryland, refusing to take the test is a presumption of intoxication and therefore your driver license will likely be automatically suspended.

Penalties for a Fourth DUI or DWI in Maryland

A conviction for a fourth DUI in Maryland carries harsher penalties than those for a DWI (Driving While Impaired). This is because the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level for a DUI charge is higher than the BAC for a DWI charge.

The possible penalties for a fourth DUI conviction are:

• DUI – a maximum fine of $3,000 and/or imprisonment for a maximum of 3 years;
• DUI per se - a maximum fine of $3,000 and/or imprisonment for a maximum of 3 years;
• DUI with a minor in your vehicle - a maximum fine of $4,000 and/or imprisonment for a maximum of 4 years; and
• Driving after Being Arrested for Violation of DUI – a maximum fine of $500 and/or imprisonment for a maximum of 2 months.

By contacting a Baltimore, Maryland drunk driving defense firm to review your case, you may be able to avoid maximum penalties.

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