DWI vs. DUI in Maryland

DWI vs. DUI In Maryland

When you get behind the wheel of a motor vehicle in Maryland after drinking alcohol or taking drugs (legal or illegal) or both, you can be arrested for DWI and/or DUI. While they may seem like the same thing, they are different charges, and each carries its own penalties upon conviction. At The Law Office of Cynthia Christiani, LLC, we review your charges and help you understand the possible consequences you face upon conviction. We also prepare a defense that best supports your case and ability to retain your freedom and driving privileges.

Differences Between DWI and DUI In Maryland

DWI and DUI are closely connected but separate offenses in Maryland. They can be charged separately or together, and DUI is typically the more severe of the two charges, but both are codified under MD Transportation Code §21-902. You will be charged with DUI when your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08% or higher. In contrast, for a successful charge of DWI, the state will only need to show that you drank alcohol and/or are under the influence of a substance and it has affected your ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.

The penalties for DWI and DUI under MD Transportation Code §21-902 are also different.

DWI Penalties

• First Offense: Fine of up to $500 and up to two months in jail (or both)
• Second Offense: Fine of up to $500 and up to one year in jail (or both)

DUI Penalties

• First Offense: Fine of up to $1000 and up to one year in jail (or both)
• Second Offense: Fine of up to $2,000 and up to two years in jail (or both)

A Thorough Case Review With Our Firm

If you are facing a charge for DWI and/or DUI in Maryland, we stand ready to provide an inclusive case review that identifies and utilizes any discrepancies in how your arrest occurred. For example, we will ensure that your arrest was legally conducted and that any field sobriety tests were correctly administered. We will also ensure that your constitutional rights were not violated and that the equipment used to calibrate your BAC was operational and correctly used. We aim to ensure that you were treated fairly and your rights respected.

Once we have conducted a thorough case review, we will explain your options and craft the best way forward together. At The Law Office of Cynthia Christiani, LLC, we will help you every step of the way and maintain an open line of communication so that you are always up to date on your case and what you can expect to happen next.

Facing a DUI or DWI In Maryland? Contact The Law Office of Cynthia Christiani, LLC

At The Law Office of Cynthia Christiani, LLC, we can create a strategy that best supports your defense when you have been charged with a DUI or DWI. Contact our firm to learn more about our inclusive services and how we can help you.