Columbia DUI Defense Lawyers

Experienced Attorneys for DUI Charges in Columbia, MD

Some drivers may not realize that they can be pulled over and charged with driving under the influence (DUI) after just a couple of drinks. While most people know that drunk driving is against the law, they may not realize that the threshold for being charged with DUI can be lower than they might expect. A DUI conviction can have serious criminal, financial, and personal penalties. If you have been accused of driving under the influence or driving while impaired (DWI) in Columbia, a Maryland DUI defense lawyer can help you safeguard your future.

At Arrested for a DUI, LLC, we provide personalized, aggressive representation to clients all over Maryland. We understand how confusing, stressful, and challenging the criminal justice system can be, and our Columbia DUI defense attorneys will work closely with you so you can navigate your case with confidence. We are fluent in both English and Spanish, and we are available 24/7 to help you explore your options.

Understanding and Defending Against MD DUI Charges

Each state has different DUI rules and regulations. Whether you are a Maryland resident or merely a visitor, understanding and recognizing the state's unique laws is crucial to mounting a successful defense. It is important to understand that there are multiple ways for state prosecutors and law enforcement to charge you with drunk driving.

Most commonly, drivers can be charged with DUI if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is at least 0.08 percent. This is legally referred to as a "per se" DUI charge, and an arrest may be based on breathalyzer or blood test results that showed that a person's BAC was over the legal limit. In some cases, a person who has not exceeded the legal limit may be charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) based on charges that their use of alcohol affected their ability to drive safely.

Police officers have some leeway when determining a driver's level of impairment. Physical signs and behavioral factors are especially relevant in cases involving drugs or marijuana. Since these substances may impact the mind and body differently from alcohol, and since chemical testing is not always a reliable indication of impairment when it comes to controlled substances, officers can use some discretion when determining whether a person is intoxicated.

During a traffic stop, an officer may administer field sobriety tests to evaluate the driver's focus, physical balance, and cognitive abilities. While drivers have the right to decline field sobriety tests in Maryland, they can still face consequences. Refusal to take these tests, for example, can cause an officer to suspect that a driver is intoxicated, and the refusal may give them probable cause to perform an arrest.

Following an arrest, a driver who refuses to undergo further chemical testing upon request will face administrative penalties. For a first offense, a person's driver's license can be suspended for up to 270 days, while a second offense can result in a suspension of up to two years.

While blood and breath tests may seem airtight, there are a number of common defenses that may be used to challenge test results in court, including:

• Questioning Chain of Custody: Law enforcement officers must follow strict protocols and standards to ensure that people's rights are protected and test results are accurate. Our attorneys may be able to have these results dismissed if a break in the chain of custody or improper storage of a sample is discovered.
• Improper Field Sobriety Test Administration: To be considered valid, field sobriety tests must be conducted under the right conditions while following specific procedures. Poor weather conditions, uneven terrain, or improper instructions can all affect a driver's test performance.
• Breathalyzer Issues: Breathalyzers need to be carefully calibrated to deliver accurate results. External factors such as medical conditions or the use of mouthwash or lip balm can affect a test's accuracy.

Contact Our Columbia, Maryland DUI Defense Attorneys

Do not leave your case up to chance. If you have been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, Arrested for a DUI, LLC can help you develop a plan of action. Contact our Columbia DUI lawyers at 301-479-5466 to schedule a free consultation and discuss your options.