Maryland DUI Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A DUI in Maryland is a serious traffic offense under Md. Code, Transportation § 21-902, carrying penalties like license suspension, fines, and potential jail time. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those charged with impaired driving. Our Maryland DUI lawyer can challenge the evidence against you, from the traffic stop to the chemical test results.
Maryland DUI Law and Penalties
In Maryland, driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while impaired (DWI) are distinct charges with different legal thresholds and penalties. A DUI is defined as operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or while substantially impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. A DWI charge applies at a lower BAC level, typically 0.07%, or when driving is impaired to some degree. Both charges are misdemeanors but carry significant consequences that escalate with prior offenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Maryland Courts | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the official Md. Code, Transportation § 21-902 (official Maryland General Assembly). For court procedures and forms, visit the Maryland Courts website.
Handling a Maryland DUI Case
The process begins at an initial hearing, often an arraignment, where you enter a plea. A skilled DUI attorney will immediately file for a Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) hearing to contest your license suspension—a separate proceeding from the criminal case. The defense strategy may involve challenging the legality of the traffic stop, the administration of field sobriety tests, or the calibration and accuracy of the breathalyzer machine.
- Contact a Maryland DUI lawyer immediately to protect your license and begin building your defense.
- Your attorney will request a hearing with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) within 10 days of your arrest to fight the automatic license suspension.
- Your lawyer will obtain and review all evidence, including the police report, dash/body cam footage, and breathalyzer maintenance logs.
- Based on the evidence review, your DUI attorney will develop a defense strategy, which may involve filing motions to suppress evidence or negotiating with the prosecutor.
- Be prepared for all court dates. Your attorney will guide you through each step, whether your case is resolved through negotiation or proceeds to trial.
Potential Penalties for a Maryland DUI
In Maryland, a first-offense DUI carries up to 1 year in jail, a $1,000 fine, and a 6-month license revocation. Penalties increase sharply for subsequent offenses.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Offense DUI | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | Revocation up to 6 months | Ignition Interlock, 12 points |
| 2nd Offense DUI | Misdemeanor | Up to 2 years | Up to $2,000 | Revocation up to 1 year | Mandatory Ignition Interlock |
| DUI with Minor | Misdemeanor | Up to 2 years | Up to $2,000 | Revocation up to 1 year | Ignition Interlock, Child Endangerment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Background in DUI Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of Maryland’s traffic laws and the procedural nuances of its district courts.
Case Results in Maryland
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented history of achieving positive results for clients facing DUI charges across Maryland. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, collaborating with our team of experienced attorneys. Our firm-wide record shows over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local DUI Defense in Maryland
Our firm provides accessible DUI defense representation across Maryland. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings available by appointment only. If you need a DWI lawyer near you, our team is ready to discuss your impaired driving defense options.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E. Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my license immediately after a Maryland DUI arrest?
Yes. Maryland law imposes an automatic driver’s license suspension upon arrest if you refused a chemical test or took a test with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. You have only 10 days to request a hearing with the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) to challenge this suspension.
Can a DUI be reduced to a lesser charge in Maryland?
It depends. Prosecutors may agree to reduce a DUI to a DWI or a non-alcohol-related traffic offense, especially for first-time offenders. The likelihood depends on the strength of the evidence, your driving record, and the skill of your DUI attorney in negotiations.
What is the difference between DUI and DWI in Maryland?
A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge requires proof of a BAC of 0.08% or higher, or substantial impairment. A DWI (Driving While Impaired) applies at a BAC of 0.07% or with any impairment. DUI penalties are generally more severe than those for DWI.
How long does a Maryland DUI stay on my record?
A Maryland DUI conviction remains on your criminal record permanently. For driver’s license and insurance purposes, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) maintains points from a DUI conviction on your driving record for 3 years from the violation date.
Should I take a breath test if stopped for DUI in Maryland?
It depends on your situation. Refusing a test triggers an automatic 270-day license suspension for a first offense, which is longer than the suspension for a failed test. However, refusal may make it harder for the state to prove its case in court. Discuss this specific scenario with a Maryland DUI lawyer.