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DUI Attorney - Why Do You Need a DWI Lawyer?
Baltimore, Annapolis, Glen Burnie, and Ellicott City, Maryland
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration and state lawmakers have worked hard to discourage drinking and driving, which means the laws are getting stricter and the ramifications of a conviction are becoming more serious. To the defendant’s benefit, some of these laws ease the discovery of evidence, such as videotapes of the roadside tests, conversation with the police officer, and arrest. But these aren’t easily accessible by people who don’t know the legal system.
We can’t stress the importance of getting experienced DUI legal representation immediately. Not only does representation tell the prosecutor and judge that you take your arrest seriously, it also increases your credibility when asking them to consider more lenient sentence in your case. These can include:
- Granting probation before judgment
- Reduced sentence
- Complete dismissal of your case
You are less likely to establish sufficient credibility or a strong defense without knowledgeable counsel.
The Jimeno & Gray Difference
As former prosecutors, Gregory P. Jimeno and Frank C. Gray, Jr., have the unique ability to view your case from perspective of both the prosecution and defense. This also enables us to better understand the tactics the state will use to present its case.
We have been trained and certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to administer the same field sobriety tests that officers administer. Because we know the right way to administer these tests, we can spot mistakes more readily, making it easier to attack the state’s case against you. As former DWI course instructors, we have taught lawyers how to investigate and construct their clients’ cases.
When we evaluate your case, we work to determine not only your eligibility for dismissal or reduced penalties, but also which option would most likely be granted. For example, it is reasonable to expect a more lenient sentence if you are a first time offender than if this is your second or subsequent offense in the last 24 months. If the officer failed to document the evidence properly, we may be able to get your case dismissed, regardless of prior convictions. This knowledge enables us to prepare a defense that is specific to the unique facts of your case.
Consequences of a DUI
Without legal representation, you may face:
- Hefty fines
- Suspension or revocation of your driver’s license
- Jail time
With an experienced DUI attorney representing you, you may be able to receive more lenient penalties depending upon your circumstances. Some possible decisions could result in:
- A driving restriction, allowing you to drive to and from work
- An ignition interlock system that prevents your car from starting if you have had any alcohol, but otherwise allows you to drive when you need to
- A waiver of the interlock restrictions if you don’t have a vehicle to install it in, or if you intend to drive only your employer’s vehicle and only for work related purposes during the restriction period
- Probation before judgment (no points would go on your driving record)
- Dismissal of all charges
Most people hire an attorney to defend them against DUI charges, but many fail to ensure that their counsel is specifically qualified to defend DUI cases. Don’t settle for an attorney who advises you to only plead guilty. There may be dozens of points to contest, and each offers a potential mistake by the prosecution.
If you were charged with a DUI, please contact Maryland DUI attorneys Jimeno & Gray today to schedule a consultation.