Blog: DUI/DWI

DUI or DWI? Understanding the Differences in Maryland and Why It Matters

Apr 30, 2025

If you’ve been pulled over for suspected drunk or impaired driving in Maryland, you may hear the terms What Is DUI in Maryland? DUI stands for Driving Under the Influence, and it’s the more serious of the two charges. In Maryland, a driver can be charged with DUI if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. The charge indicates that the driver’s ability to operate a vehicle is significantly impaired by alcohol...

Maryland DUI vs. DC DUI: Key Differences Explained

Apr 28, 2025

When drivers are arrested for Common Elements of Impaired Driving in Maryland and D.C. The laws of Impairment in DC and Maryland isn’t just about numbers. Maryland’s laws also cover impairment by drugs and "combination" impairment — which can include both alcohol and drugs. Officers look for signs like erratic driving, slurred speech, or failed sobriety tests. Authorities must have a good reason to stop you in both jurisdictions. Both areas have ...

DUI or DWI in Maryland: Which is Worse?

Apr 23, 2025

Facing a What's The Difference Between a DUI and DWI in Maryland? The main difference lies in the driver's level of intoxication and impairment. A DUI is one of the most severe offenses under Maryland law related to impaired driving. It applies when a driver’s Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. Maryland enforces this limit strictly, and drivers registered at or above this level are presumed to be under the influence, regardless of...

How DUI & DWI Penalties Increase in Maryland: Enhancement Rules Explained

Apr 21, 2025

If you've been charged with impaired driving in Maryland, it's important to understand the potential punishment you may face, especially if you have prior convictions. Maryland law imposes stricter penalties (enhanced penalties) on individuals with previous Driving Under the Influence ( Read on to learn more about increased penalties for drunk or drugged driving in the state of Maryland, when they apply, and the maximum penalties the state can impose under these circumstances. What is an Enhancement...

What Happens If You Refuse to Take a Breathalyzer Test in Maryland?

Mar 26, 2025

If you're stopped by police for suspicion of drunk driving, you can refuse to take a Implied Consent Maryland's implied consent law means that by driving on Maryland's roads, you agree to submit to chemical tests—breath, blood, or urine—if an officer has reasonable grounds to suspect impairment. This means that a police officer can detain you and conduct tests when the officer believes that reasonable grounds exist that you are driving or attempting to drive a...

Top 5 Mistakes People Make After a DUI Arrest—and How to Avoid Them

Mar 4, 2025

A This article is designed to help you understand the most common mistakes individuals make after a DUI arrest and provides practical advice on how to avoid them. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure of your next steps, these insights can help you make informed decisions and protect your rights during this difficult time. 1. Speaking Instead of Staying Silent After a DUI arrest, you have the right to remain silent, but many people...

Why is the Ignition Interlock Required Even After a PBJ?

Feb 27, 2025

In Maryland, probation before judgment (PBJ) is a favorable outcome for individuals charged with driving under the influence ( Read on to learn why the IID is required even after you receive probation before judgment. Legal Loophole Eliminated Over the past five years in the Old Line State, almost 800 people have been killed by impaired drivers. This is nearly one-third of all roadway fatalities. In addition, about 15,000 people have been injured by drug and...

First DUI Offense? Here's What You Need to Know About Maryland's Penalties and Defenses

Feb 4, 2025

Understanding Maryland DUI Laws for First-Time Offenders Facing a What Constitutes a DUI in Maryland? In Maryland, DUI charges typically arise from a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. For drivers under 21, the legal BAC limit is 0.02% under Maryland’s zero-tolerance policy. Additionally, a BAC of 0.04% or higher can result in charges for commercial drivers. A DUI conviction can result not only from alcohol but also from impairment due to...

What is Noah's Law? A Comprehensive Guide to Maryland’s Ignition Interlock Law

Jan 23, 2025

Noah’s Law is an important law in Maryland to combat Over the past five years in Maryland, The statute is named after a Montgomery County police officer who was killed by a drunk driver in December 2015. The legislative measure is officially known as the "Drunk Driving Reduction Act of 2016. Key Provisions of Noah’s Law Noah’s Law The law also introduced stricter penalties for impaired drivers. Expansion of the Ignition Interlock Program...

Field Sobriety Tests in Maryland: Are They Really Accurate?

Jan 2, 2025

Field sobriety tests are a standard tool used by law enforcement during This blog explores the accuracy of field sobriety tests, their limitations, and how a skilled DUI defense lawyer can help you navigate your case. If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Maryland, understanding your rights and the weaknesses of these tests is essential for building a strong defense. What Are Field Sobriety Tests? Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are physical and mental...