DWI Defense Attorneys in Chestertown, MD, Advocating for Fair Treatment Under the Law in Kent County and Throughout Maryland
Caught driving under the influence in Chestertown? Our Chestertown DUI lawyers can help.
Maybe you had a few drinks at the Blue Bird Tavern, Fish Whistle, or any other bar and got pulled over. The consequences of DUI in Chestertown can impact your whole life:
- You could lose your driving privileges.
- You might face serious penalties.
We've helped many Chestertown residents fight their DUI charges, getting them dismissed or reduced.
Take control of your situation. Contact us to discuss your Chestertown DUI case.
When Can Chestertown Police Charge You With DUI or DWI Offense?
Chestertown police officers can charge drivers with alcohol or drug-related driving offenses in several situations:
DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
A DUI charge typically occurs when:
- Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher
- Drug use, including prescription medications, has significantly impaired your driving ability
- You refuse to take a breathalyzer or blood test
DWI (Driving While Impaired)
A DWI charge typically occurs when:
- Your BAC measures between 0.07% and 0.08%
- There's evidence of drug influence affecting your driving
Whether they charged you for DUI or DWI, both hurt your future, but DUI is considerably more serious. DUI charges come with stricter penalties and can have longer-lasting effects on your life.
Understanding DUI and DWI Penalties in Chestertown
DUI Penalties
First-time DUI convictions carry serious consequences in Chestertown, including up to one year in jail, fines up to $1,000, and a six-month driver's license suspension.
Second DUI offenses face enhanced penalties:
- Up to two years of incarceration
- Up to $2,000 in fines
Additionally, second DUI offenses require installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
Aggravating Circumstances
DUI penalties increase significantly if the incident resulted in harm to others:
- Causing life-threatening injuries while driving under the influence can result in three years imprisonment and $3,000 in fines.
- DUI incidents resulting in death can lead to five years imprisonment and $5,000 in fines.
DWI Penalties
While less severe than DUI charges, DWI convictions still carry substantial penalties:
- First offense: Up to two months jail time, $500 in fines, and license suspension up to 180 days.
- Second offense: Maximum one-year imprisonment and $500 in fines
How Our Chestertown DUI Lawyers Defend Alleged DUI Offenders
Our Chestertown DUI lawyers develop comprehensive defense strategies tailored to each client's unique situation. We examine every aspect of your case to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome.
Scrutinizing Traffic Stop Validity
Maryland law requires police officers to have reasonable suspicion for initiating a traffic stop. Our team reviews:
- The officer's stated reason for the stop
- Dashboard and body camera footage
- Police reports and witness statements
If we determine the stop violated your constitutional rights, we can move to suppress all evidence obtained during the illegal stop, potentially leading to case dismissal.
Challenging Chemical Test Evidence
Chemical test results aren't always reliable. We thoroughly investigate:
- Testing equipment maintenance records
- Proper testing procedures
- Chain of custody documentation
- Lab analysis protocols
When no chemical test exists, the prosecution must rely solely on officer observations. Our DWI defense attorneys in Chestertown, MD, carefully examine subjective assessments and challenge their reliability in court.
Dismantling Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests may seem reliable on paper, but they can lead to inaccurate results. You are asked to perform unusual physical tasks while being nervous about dealing with law enforcement. In addition to alcohol consumption, several factors can contribute to failing sobriety tests, including:
- Fatigue
- Lack of coordination
- Being overweight
- Medical conditions, such as fluid in the inner ear, knee injuries, and more
We can challenge the reliability, administration, and interpretation of sobriety tests.
Every DUI case presents unique circumstances requiring tailored defense approaches. Our goal is to minimize the impact of DUI charges on your life while ensuring your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Discuss your case with our Chestertown DUI lawyers today.
Why Choose Maronick Law LLC to Handle Your DUI or DWI Case in Chestertown
We offer more than just legal representation—we provide comprehensive support. For over eight decades, our firm has successfully defended Maryland residents against DUI and DWI charges.
Local Experience That Makes a Difference
Our DWI defense attorneys in Chestertown, MD, have established strong working relationships with the legal community, including:
- Kent County District Court judges
- State prosecutors
- Local law enforcement
- Court administrative staff
This local knowledge, and our understanding of how prosecutors build DUI cases, allows us to develop highly effective defense strategies.
Proven Track Record
Our results speak for themselves:
- We've had DUI charges completely dismissed by catching officers' mistakes during traffic stops.
- We've turned slam dunk prosecutions into acquittals by exposing flawed breath test procedures.
- We've negotiated charge reductions to help clients avoid jail time.
- We've helped people keep their licenses and their freedom.
Recognition
Our commitment to protecting the rights of the community has earned us significant recognition:
- Selected to Super Lawyers 2025, Maryland's top 5% of attorneys
- Awarded "Superb" rating on Avvo from client reviews
- Named among National Trial Lawyers: Top 100
- Featured for criminal law experience in CNN, Baltimore Sun, and USA Today
Here's What Truly Sets Us Apart
We're available 24/7 because we know DUI arrests don't wait for business hours. When you call us, you get immediate access to attorneys who treat your case with the urgency it deserves. You're not just another case number—you're family, and our Chestertown DUI lawyers fight for the family with everything they've got.
Many firms will promise to handle your case. We strive for the best outcome.
Testimonial from people we've represented:
“The whole process was made easy when I went through Thomas’ office. His staff was very nice and patient through everything. They are timely and work to get everything done in a decent time frame. They answer the phones, and they are the best office to help with a DUI. I would recommend this office to anyone who needs an attorney.” - Kaela Johnson
Don't let DUI charges compromise your future. Discuss your case with our DWI defense attorneys in Chestertown, MD. Let us put our experience, reputation, and dedication to work for you.
Contact Our Chestertown DUI Lawyers at Maronick Law LLC Today for a Free Case Review
We believe in the power of second chances. We can review your case, explain your options, and start building your defense immediately.
For help from DUI lawyers in Chestertown, contact Maronick Law LLC online or call 443-551-2747 today.