Multiple DUI Attorney in Howard County

As Former Prosecutors, We Have the Experience to Fight For You—Call (410) 927-5137

Facing a second, third or subsequent DUI charge in Howard County requires understanding the specific legal intricacies of this area. Maryland law mandates harsh penalties for repeat offenses, including more severe fines, longer license suspensions, and potential incarceration. These laws are enacted to deter repeat offenses and emphasize the importance of legal representation for those facing repeated DUIs.

In Maryland, the impact of a multiple DUI extends beyond legal penalties. A conviction can significantly affect personal and professional aspects of one's life, including employment opportunities, personal relationships, and community standing. Therefore, it is crucial to have an attorney experienced in Howard County's legal landscape who can provide strategic defense and mitigate negative outcomes.

Contact a dedicated multiple DUI attorney in Howard County at Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake for a free consultation. Call us now at (410) 927-5137 or schedule a meeting online.

Understanding Maryland's Multiple DUI Laws

In Maryland, a second or subsequent DUI offense is treated far more severely than a first. The State of Maryland, through the Motor Vehicle Administration and the court system, has a clear policy of imposing escalating penalties on repeat offenders. 

While a first DUI conviction is typically a misdemeanor with the possibility of jail time, a second or third offense can lead to mandatory jail sentences and an automatic, permanent criminal record. As your Howard County multiple DUI lawyer, we will meticulously analyze the specifics of your case and your criminal history to determine the exact nature of the charges and build a defense tailored to your situation.

The penalties for a DUI conviction increase significantly with each offense:

• First Offense: Up to 1 year in jail and a maximum fine of $1,000.
• Second Offense: Up to 2 years in jail and a maximum fine of $2,000. There may be a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 days in jail.
• Third Offense: Up to 5 years in prison and a maximum fine of $5,000. There may be a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 days in jail.

In addition to the criminal penalties, the administrative penalties with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) also escalate. A second conviction can result in a 9-month license suspension, while a third conviction can lead to a 12-month suspension. Refusing a chemical test after a second offense can result in an automatic 2-year license suspension. This is what you face when charged with a multiple DUI attorney in Howard County.

Collateral Consequences of a Maryland Multiple DUI Conviction

The consequences of a multiple DUI conviction are far more severe than those for a single offense. They can have a profound impact on your life, well beyond the fines and potential jail time. We work tirelessly to help our clients avoid these devastating consequences.

• Permanent Criminal Record: A felony DUI conviction is a permanent mark on your record that is publicly accessible. This can affect your employment, your ability to secure housing, and your educational opportunities.
• Increased Insurance Premiums: Your car insurance rates will likely increase dramatically after a DUI conviction, making driving an expensive proposition. Some insurance companies may even refuse to provide you with coverage.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): You will likely be required to install an IID on your vehicle for an extended period, which can be both expensive and inconvenient.

A knowledgeable multiple DUI attorney in Howard County can help you understand the full scope of these penalties and work to mitigate them.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Multiple DUI Defense

At Shapiro Zwanetz & Lake, we believe that every case is unique and deserves a personalized defense strategy. Our approach to defending multiple DUI charges is aggressive and thorough, drawing on our experience as former prosecutors.

• Challenging the Initial Stop: We will scrutinize the reason for the initial traffic stop. If the officer lacked "reasonable suspicion" to stop you, any evidence obtained as a result can be suppressed, which can lead to a dismissal of the case.
• Disputing Field Sobriety Tests: These tests are highly subjective. We can argue that external factors, such as the uneven ground, your footwear, or a medical condition, contributed to your performance.
• Attacking Chemical Test Results: Breathalyzers and blood tests are not infallible. We will challenge the accuracy of the device, the calibration records, and the qualifications of the officer who administered the test.
• Negotiating with the State: Our experience as former prosecutors gives us an edge in negotiations. We know their priorities and can effectively negotiate for reduced charges or alternative solutions, such as getting you into a diversion program that can lead to a dismissal of the charges.

We will exhaust every possible option to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future. A skilled multiple DUI attorney in Howard County can make all the difference.