Experienced DUI/DWI Lawyer in Harford County
Have you been charged with Driving While Impaired (DWI)? This is a serious offense in Maryland and can have serious consequences such as jail time, fines, and restrictions on your future ability to drive. If you’re facing a DWI charge, contact DUI/DWI lawyer Timothy A. Cook today.
What Is a DWI Charge?
You may be charged with DWI in Maryland if you’re found to have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .07 or higher but below the .08 threshold of Driving Under the Influence (DUI). You can also be charged if police determine you’re driving while impaired by drugs (even legal drugs), drugs and alcohol, or controlled substances like marijuana.
DWI Penalties in Maryland
Often the State will not have breath test evidence or insufficient evidence to prove a DUI and a DWI will be prosecuted instead.
If it’s your first DWI offense, the maximum penalties are a 60-day jail sentence, a $500 fine, and eight points on your license.
Subsequent DWI Offenses
If you have a prior conviction for a DWI the penalties are enhanced to imprisonment of up to one year, a fine of $500, and a license suspension of up to 12 months. DWI penalties are increased if a minor is in the car or if you are facing your third or higher charge.
If you are transporting a minor under the age of 16, injure someone while driving impaired, or refuse the initial breathalyzer, you may be required to can avoid suspension or revocation of your license by participating in the ignition interlock program.
What to Do If You’re Charged with DWI
Follow these steps as soon as you are allowed to make a phone call.
Contact Timothy A. Cook, DUI/DWI Lawyer Immediately
There are time limits on when you may need to request an MVA Hearing or have the ignition interlock put on your vehicle so you can continue driving. Loss of driving privileges is often the first and, sometimes, the most devastating consequence of a repeat DWI.
Meet with a DUI/DWI Lawyer to Discuss the Facts of Your Case
There may be a defense to the charges and any good lawyer needs time to properly prepare a defense. Motions for Discovery must be filed and all State’s evidence reviewed to determine if a successful defense can be mounted.
Determine Whether to Move the Case
If the case is one in which a plea bargain must be reached, it may be best to move the case to Circuit Court depending on the State’s recommendation and the Judge in District Court. All good DUI/DWI lawyers know their local judges and whether to avoid a certain judge or stay in that courtroom.
Put Yourself in The Best Position
Timothy A. Cook has been representing clients and defending DUI/DWI cases in Harford County, Cecil County, and Baltimore County since 1988. I am familiar with all the Judges and State Attorneys. I can advise you on whether to defend the charges or work out a plea bargain. I know what judges to avoid and how to put you in the best position to avoid jail time and license suspensions.
Get a Free Consultation
Contact Timothy A. Cook, Attorney at Law, today if you’re facing a DWI charge in Harford County, Cecil County, or Baltimore County. I understand good people sometimes make bad choices. I have extensive experience in representing clients in District and Circuit Courts in Bel Air, Elkton, and Towson for DUI and DWI. I can help you get through the court system and the MVA system and get this behind you. Payment plans are available in most cases. We also accept credit and debit cards.