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First Offense DUI
Receiving a charge for a first-offense DUI can be life-altering. Navigating through the court system and the Maryland Motor Vehicles Administration (MVA) is challenging and not something you should do alone. At The Law Office of Cynthia Christiani, LLC, we understand the fears and concerns associated with a first offense DUI and are here to help you walk through this trying time.
Why It Matters That It’s a First Offense DUI
The good news is that with a first offense, you will not be subject to the enhanced penalties persons with a second, third, or fourth offense are subjected to. However, it can still harm your future, as stringent penalties exist for a first-offense DUI. You can still lose the ability to drive a motor vehicle, spend time in jail, and have to pay a fine.
What You Should Do When You Have Been Charged With A First Offense DUI in Maryland
As soon as you have been charged, it is important that you review all paperwork given to you and seek legal advice as soon as possible.
It is likely that your driver’s license has been confiscated, and you have been given a temporary driver’s license instead. This means you now have driving privileges for only the 45 days following your arrest. You will need to request a hearing or voluntarily participate in the Interlock Ignition Program, or your license will be suspended on day 46. A DUI attorney can help you request this hearing or help you enroll in the Ignition Interlock Program and explain the pros and cons of doing so.
An experienced criminal defense attorney will also speak to you about the importance of having an alcohol evaluation prior to court and/or an MVA hearing. A DUI attorney can help you find programs that are best suited to do this evaluation for you, depending on the jurisdiction where you are charged.
Finally, contacting a DUI lawyer to represent you can be extremely beneficial. A lawyer will know the best way to build up your defense and how to preserve your freedom and your ability to drive. A lawyer can help you decide if you need to request a hearing before the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA); if you do, they can represent you at the hearing. They will also know the best tactics and solutions to help you through this difficult time.
Maryland’s First Offense DUI Attorney
When you have been charged with a first-offense DUI in Maryland, you need advocacy that you can depend on. At The Law Office of Cynthia Christiani, LLC, we use the knowledge obtained through our extensive experience to best support your defense. Contact us to find out how we are able to help you fight the charges you face.