DUI Lawyer Frederick, MD

DUI Lawyer in Frederick, MD

DUI charges are levied against approximately a million drivers annually, as a DUI lawyer in Frederick, Maryland knows. Whether intentional or not, a driver can be accused of DUI or DWI if they are found to have consumed alcohol while driving. It is the driver’s responsibility to be aware of how much alcohol they have consumed before operating a vehicle. Drivers can face harsh penalties for these offenses, such as jail time and steep fines that often amount to hundreds of dollars. If you have been charged with DUI, there are legal options that you can take advantage of. It is not too late to fight your charge. You may feel overwhelmed if you are facing a DUI charge that can tarnish your record. However, you have the right to speak to a lawyer about your particular case. A trusted lawyer such as Greenberg Law Offices can protect your rights and fight for you in the courtroom. 

DUI Frederick lawyer in MD

Experiencing a DUI charge can have a dramatic effect on your life, and you may be unsure of what to do. It is normal to feel anxious about the consequences, but doing nothing about the charge will not help you. If you are facing a DUI charge, immediately find out what your legal options are so that you can have the best chance of fighting it. Drivers should take a DUI charge seriously if they want their case to be handled properly and effectively. You must be aware of your full rights and responsibilities as an individual at the focus of such a charge. You can learn about your rights by speaking to a DUI lawyer.

A qualified DUI Frederick, MD lawyer who has extensive experience in criminal cases, can provide you with the knowledge and resources to prepare for your case. A DUI lawyer knows the DUI laws and has extensive experience helping clients fight them will use their resources to prepare the strongest possible case for you. They will gather the facts and evidence, as well as speak to key individuals and investigators. They do the research and negotiating work for you to get a fair deal that can potentially result in a reduced charge or sentence. Instead of doing the difficult work of fighting a charge on your own, you can rely on a lawyer to take on the most difficult and complex parts of your case for you. 

Maryland Laws on Impaired Driving 

It’s important to note how DUI and DWI charges are distinguished according to Maryland law. A driver is charged with driving under the influence (DUI) if they have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher. In contrast, a driver is charged with driving while impaired if their BAC is less than .08, but a police officer has determined they are impaired. 

If you are accused of driving while impaired, there are multiple types of evidence examined to determine which charges to levy against you. Results from sobriety tests, breathalyzer tests, or bodily fluid tests can be used as evidence. It can be confusing to understand DUI laws, so ask a lawyer if you do not understand a law and how they can be applied to your case.

Preventing DUI Charges

Every driver can do their part in decreasing the likelihood of being charged with DUI in the first place. There are simple ways drivers can practice safe driving and prevent themselves and those around them from committing DUI offenses: 

• Monitor your alcohol consumption. Alcohol affects everyone differently. For one person their hand-eye coordination may be affected even if they consumed an amount within the legal limit. Always be aware of how much alcohol you have consumed.
• Choose a designated driver before drinking. If you are at an event with a group, decide which person should stay sober so they can drive safely. 
• Do not let friends or individuals around you drink and drive. If you notice that someone is attempting to drive a vehicle after consuming alcohol, confront them so that they don’t operate the vehicle. 
• Use a taxi or ride-share services. If you cannot appoint a designated driver to take you to a destination, hail a cab or a ride-sharing app. It is better to be safe and there are plenty of ride-sharing services available. 

3 Common Misconceptions About DUI Charges

A DUI charge can be a serious issue to deal with. If you need help navigating the aftermath, a DUI lawyer in Frederick, MD can be a great resource. There is a lot of advice you may receive on being charged with a DUI, but it is important to sort through what is true and what is not. There are many reasons why you can dispute a DUI and limit the repercussions of being charged with one, but there are also some commonly believed-in loopholes that are actually untrue. Here are three common misconceptions to be aware of to help you decide what action to take next. 

1. You Should Deny Everything If You Get Pulled Over

This is a harmful myth that can actually lead to additional charges such as obstruction of justice on top of a DUI. Our lawyers at Greenberg Law Offices would likely recommend that you do not lie to the police. There is some information that you will be required to share, such as what is found on your driver’s license. That being said, there are also some things that you do not have to do, such as participate in field sobriety tests, which you can refuse. You should do your research and know your rights, but ideally avoid the risk altogether by staying sober behind the wheel. 

2. You Have to Be Currently Operating a Vehicle to Be Charged

While this seems like common sense, it is actually untrue. There are ways that you can be charged for a DUI even if you are not currently driving when the police officer approaches you. If you were not driving under the influence and believe that you have been falsely charged, you should always contact a DUI lawyer in Frederick, MD to help. That being said, if you received a DUI when you weren’t behind the wheel, it may still be legitimate, especially if there is proof that you were driving shortly before. An example of this can be if you began to drive and then pulled off somewhere to rest before being approached by the officer or if an officer witnesses you exiting the driver’s seat acting inebriated. 

3. Breathalyzers Are Always Accurate

This is an example of a misconception that may prevent you from disputing a DUI charge you don’t agree with. It turns out that breathalyzers are actually not always accurate. If you believe you have been falsely charged for having a blood alcohol content over the limit, you can ask for a blood test instead. False positives happen, and you don’t want to be the victim of one. When in doubt about your rights, talking with a DUI lawyer in Frederick, MD is a good way to get helpful legal counsel. 

DUIs are common charges and it is easier to get one than many people think. Even just one or two drinks before hitting the road can lead to a charge. This is why it’s always best to choose a designated driver when you go out drinking. If you do find yourself in a bad situation, a DUI lawyer in Frederick, MD from Greenberg Law Offices may be able to help. 

What To Do if You’re Pulled Over for DUI

Pull Over Immediately

It doesn’t take a DUI lawyer in Frederick, MD, to tell you that running away from the police is a bad idea. Even if you aren’t charged with a DUI, you could be cited for fleeing or resisting arrest. Instead, you need to slow down, then pull over as soon as it is safe to do so. 

Stay In Your Car

Staying in your car helps the law enforcement officer who’s pulled you over stay calm. Getting out of the car could be seen as a hostile act. You also don’t want to appear intoxicated as you try to walk around. Your DUI lawyer in Frederick, MD, from Greenberg Law Offices may advise that you turn off your vehicle, put the keys in the passenger seat and put your hands on the steering wheel.

Follow Instructions

Whatever the officer’s instructions are, follow them to the best of your ability. He will ask for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. He may ask you to turn down the radio. He could ask you several questions. Refusing to do something he tells you to do could be construed as resisting arrest.

Be Polite

This is not the time to air all your grievances with the police. If you’re polite and cooperative, the officer might let you go with a warning, if you haven’t done anything reckless. Acting belligerent or aggressive is only going to make the officer angry, and an angry officer may decide to ticket you for whatever they can.

Get as Much Information as Possible

When you’re pulled over, ask for the officer’s name and badge number. Try to accurately remember everything that happens in great detail. Write everything down as soon as it’s safe for you to do so. Include whether the officer asked you to submit to a field sobriety test or a breathalyzer to measure your blood alcohol content (BAC).

Consider Whether To Take a BAC Test

A BAC test measures the level of alcohol in your blood. If your BAC is 0.08% or higher, you can be charged with a DUI. Every state has some form of implied consent law, which says that as a condition of driving on the road, you consent to taking a test to confirm your BAC. Refusing to take the test could result in jail time, license suspension or fines being levied against you, but not always. 

On the other hand, if you take the test and your BAC is 0.08% or higher, it’s not the end of the world. A DUI lawyer in Frederick, MD, at Greenberg Law Offices could tell you that not all roadside BAC tests are accurate.

Contact a Skilled Lawyer that Frederick, MD Trusts

You may think that a DUI charge can be manageable to handle by yourself. However, doing your research does not replace the diverse experience and specialized legal background a skilled criminal defense lawyer will have. It is a common belief among many people charged with DUI that they can simply combat the charge alone because they do not want to deal with the hassle of hiring a lawyer. While it may be an inconvenience, you face the risk of losing your case if you do not fight a charge with the help of a lawyer. At no initial cost, a discussion with a lawyer at the right time can mean the difference between a minor or severe charge. Your charge may even be dropped if you work with an exceptionally skilled lawyer. Discover how you can obtain urgent legal assistance by scheduling an appointment with a DUI lawyer in Frederick, MD, today. 

Managing DUI Charges

Our DUI lawyer Frederick, MD residents recommend should be one of your first calls if you have been arrested and charged with a DUI. While you may have felt like you could drive after drinking, it’s common for drivers not to realize that they were driving with a higher BAC than they may have thought. Consuming even a minimal amount of alcohol can be enough to affect your senses. Driving under the influence can have lasting consequences, and if convicted, the impact could be life-long. Our team at Greenberg Law Office has the experience necessary to assist during this challenging time. Our support can ensure that you receive the best outcome possible based on your current situation. 

Driving Under the Influence

When a driver has a blood alcohol content (BAC) of more than .08%, they may be facing a DUI should they get behind the wheel. It should come as no surprise that many drivers may not truly realize their threshold tolerance, and there are several factors at play when it comes to BAC. Your BAC will rely upon: whether you are male or female, your height and weight, the number of drinks consumed and the type, and whether you ate before consuming alcohol. Sometimes a driver may even get behind the wheel, not believing they are impaired, only to find that their BAC is higher than they expected. When someone is behind the wheel after consuming alcohol, they could be at risk for severe consequences. 

Drivers who have had alcohol tend to assume that just because they believe they are driving well, they are okay to drive. However, sometimes you do not know the extent of your impairment until a certain scenario. You could feel sober and okay for the most part, but you are still putting yourself and others around you in danger. For example, you could perceive that you are driving normally after consuming alcohol, but you may not realize that your reaction time may not be as quick as it would be if you were sober. So, if an animal suddenly appeared on the road, you may not be able to avoid it in time.

DUI’s Can Result in Serious Consequences

The severity of a DUI depends on many factors. Even first-time offenders could find themselves facing consequences that hold both a social and judicial impact. Subsequent charges for DUIs can carry even more significant effects. No person should be left to manage the consequences without our DUI lawyer’s assistance in Frederick, Maryland, as you may be facing:

• Fines
• Legal Fees
• Jail Time
• Community Service
• Alcohol Classes
• Probation 
• +More

Other consequences can be incredibly impactful to a person’s day-to-day life. As a result of a conviction, you could be facing costly expenses, the installation of an ignition interlock device, and even loss of license. 

Common Myths About DUI Charges

Getting charged with a DUI can be a terrifying event. You’re worried about the possibility of going to jail and how the charge may affect your future employment prospects. It’s important to learn about all the facts behind your charge. Here are some common misconceptions a DUI lawyer in Frederick, MD doesn’t want you to believe:

• A DUI Charge Isn’t a Big Deal: Some people assume that getting a DUI charge is a minor offense. The truth is, however, that a DUI can have many negative consequences on your life. Even if this is your first offense and you don’t get sentenced to jail, you may still get your driver’s license taken away and have to pay hefty fines.
• If You Get Charged with a DUI, You Should Plead Guilty: Unfortunately, many people assume that once they’re arrested for a DUI, that’s it. However, just because you were charged with a DUI, doesn’t mean you have to automatically plead guilty. There could be many holes that could get your case dismissed. For instance, if the arresting officer didn’t have a valid reason to pull you over in the first place, your case may get thrown out.
• You Can Only Get Charged with a DUI in a Vehicle: You can get arrested for a DUI if you’re caught operating any type of motorized vehicle. These may include boats, motorcycles, jet-skis, ATVS and snowmobiles. 
• You Don’t Need to Hire a Lawyer: A DUI case can involve many complexities, so it’s in your best interest to hire an experienced DUI lawyer in Frederick, MD. He or she can build you a strong defense and protect your legal rights. With a qualified lawyer on your side, you will have a higher chance of getting a favorable outcome in your case.
• Coffee Will Sober You Up: Some people assume that drinking a cup of coffee will sober them up, allowing them to operate a vehicle safely. This just isn’t true. Coffee doesn’t remove any alcohol from your system, so you won’t be any less sober.
• Police Will Help You If You Talk to Them: This is one of the most dangerous myths to believe about DUI charges. The police may ask to speak to you about your case, but they aren’t here to help you. They only want to gather information to use against you. Don’t agree to talk to the police without a DUI lawyer in Frederick, MD present.

Charged With Drunk Driving? Here’s What You Could Be Facing

Driving Under the Influence is among the most serious traffic violations that you can receive, so being convicted of DUI is no laughing matter. DUIs carry both short and long-term consequences that can affect your finances, criminal record, and ability to drive. Should you ever find yourself facing a charge, you must call a DUI lawyer in Frederick, MD immediately. A great attorney like one from Greenberg Law Offices is your best bet to keep your freedom and get back to your life. Every DUI case is different and as result, the penalties can differ greatly. Without an experienced attorney on your side, here’s an idea of what you could face. 

Jail Time 

A DUI conviction is punishable with jail time. For example, under Maryland law, a first offender can face up to 12 months in jail. For repeat offenders, this time can be significantly increased. In some cases, subsequent DUI convictions can even carry mandatory minimum periods of incarceration. Avoiding jail time tends to be a primary concern for those facing charges. A DUI lawyer in Frederick, MD is your best bet at reducing your chances of ending up behind bars. 

Fines 

Failing to consult with Greenberg Law Offices after a DUI charge can get expensive. In addition to possible jail time, a DUI conviction can also come with some hefty fines. Depending on the circumstances and how many DUIs an offender has, fines in the state of Maryland can range from 500 dollars to 5000 dollars. For second and third-time offenders, DUI fines may even be mandatory sentencing requirements

Loss of Driving Privileges

 Driving is considered to be a privilege and not a right. For this reason, a DUI conviction can have serious implications for you as a driver. If you are charged with a DUI, you may be facing the loss of your driver’s license. You may even be required to have an interlock device mounted to your steering wheel. Finally, a DUI conviction can make it much harder for you to secure auto insurance. You may be required to acquire SR-22 liability insurance which is significantly more expensive than typical automobile insurance. 

As you can see, there can be a lot at stake when you’re facing a drunk driving charge. If you want to resolve your case with minimal disruption to your life, calling Greenberg Law Offices is one of the best things that you can do. 

Start Your Search for a DUI Lawyer Immediately

Not only can a DUI be nerve-wracking to manage, but the potential consequences along with the social stigma can also be challenging to deal with. To move forward in the wake of such charges, a lawyer will be the best way to take control of your current situation. Our team can assist, but before setting your sites on a particular firm, it’s in your best interest to carefully research area lawyers by: 

• Asking people you know for recommendations
• Conducting a thorough Internet search
• Reading online reviews
• Meeting with a lawyer for a consultation

Don’t be persuaded by the allure of cost savings associated with representing yourself. The extensive consequences you stand to face should be enough to motivate those charged with a DUI to at least consult with a legal professional from Greenberg Law Offices for guidance on how best to move forward. Allow our experienced team to provide you with the guidance you need during this difficult time. With the assistance of our Frederick, Maryland DUI lawyer, we can ensure that you receive the best possible outcome for your situation; call today. 

Can I still drive while the case is pending?

The court may or may not suspend your driver’s license right away. If it doesn’t, the prosecution may ask for a suspension of driving privileges pending trial.

If you are allowed to drive while the case is pending, be very careful to avoid another violation. A new violation could result in another arrest and the revocation of any remaining driving privileges. Even if you are acquitted of the DUI charge, a new traffic violation could result in a probationary period with a suspended license as well as fines and jail time for the new offense.

Your license will be automatically suspended if you refuse to take or fail a chemical test (blood test or breathalyzer). You will also lose your license if you are convicted of DUI.

How much do lawyers charge for DUI cases?

DUI lawyers in Frederick, MD from the Greenberg Law Offices usually charge an hourly rate or a flat rate for their services. If you are charged an hourly rate, you may be required to pay an initial retainer fee that will guarantee at least several hours of work from the attorney. The amount will depend on your location and the complexity of your case. Some attorneys might require a percentage of the total fine or settlement instead of an hourly fee. In many cases, attorneys will offer free initial consultations so that they can assess whether they think they can win your case.

What happens when I am stopped by the police?

When you are stopped by the police, you should always be polite and respectful, but you do not have to answer all of the officer’s questions. If the officer asks if you had anything to drink that night, you can refuse to answer. However, if he or she asks for your license and registration, you should provide it.

If the officer can prove that you were driving, the officer will ask you to take a test to determine your blood alcohol level. If you refuse to take the test, your driver’s license will be automatically suspended for one year. In addition, any refusal can be used against you at a trial.

Should I take a field sobriety test?

Field sobriety tests are rarely helpful to the motorist. The most common tests are walking a straight line, standing on one leg, and following an object with your eyes while keeping your head still. If you are in good physical condition, these tests might seem easy. However, if you have been drinking or are older or have any physical impairment, it is probably best not to try them.

If you fail the breathalyzer test or any of the sobriety tests, you will be arrested for DUI. This means that the police will take you to jail and have your car towed. You may be released from jail on bail or your own recognizance (you sign papers saying that you promise to show up for hearings). You should get out of jail within a few hours at most.

A DUI lawyers in Frederick, MD from the Greenberg Law Offices should have the knowledge to know what you can and cannot do at the time of your initial contact with the police. In fact, your DUI lawyer Frederick, MD from the Greenberg Law Offices should be able to give you detailed instructions regarding what to do if you are ever stopped for driving under the influence of alcohol.