DUIs are one scary mess that no one likes to find themselves in. But sometimes, life has other plans, and facing a DUI can be inevitable. This can be especially scary for those who don’t know what the consequences of getting a first-time DUI are. This is why today, we’re going to help you out and cover the topic of what happens after you get a DUI.
Here are the topics we’ll cover today,
- What happens after you get a DUI
- Expungement of a DUI
- What you can do after a DUI
- Which is the best law firm to help you out with a DUI charge
With that said, let’s go over all the consequences of getting a DUI.
What Happens After You Get a DUI
If you’re wondering what happens after you get a DUI in Maryland, the answer is that the consequences are both immediate and long-lasting, affecting nearly every aspect of your life. Maryland law treats DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Impaired) as serious offenses, and understanding what happens after you get a DUI is crucial for anyone facing these charges.
Legal Consequences
Let’s start with the legal consequences of getting a DUI in Maryland or anywhere else.
1. Criminal Charges and Court Proceedings
What happens after you get a DUI in Maryland starts with criminal charges. DUI and DWI are misdemeanors, but penalties escalate with repeat offenses or aggravating factors such as transporting a minor or causing injury. You will be required to appear in court, and a conviction will remain on your record unless you qualify for expungement under recent law changes.
2. Fines and Jail Time
Getting such a charge includes facing steep fines and possible jail time. For a first-time DUI, you could be fined up to $1,000 and face up to one year in jail. DWI penalties are lower but still significant, with up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine for a first offense. Penalties increase with each subsequent conviction, and if you have a high BAC or a minor in the car, the consequences are even more severe.
3. License Suspension or Revocation
A key part of what happens after you get a DUI is the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. For a first DUI, your license could be suspended for up to six months, and for a DWI, up to six months as well. Repeat offenses or aggravating factors can lead to longer suspensions or even permanent revocation.
4. Ignition Interlock Device
Under Maryland’s “Noah’s Law,” receiving a DUI charge now includes mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device for most offenders, even for first-time DUI or DWI convictions or if you refuse a breathalyzer. The device must remain installed for at least six months for the first DUI offense, with longer periods for subsequent offenses.
5. Alcohol Education or Treatment Programs
Another aspect of getting a DUI is mandatory participation in alcohol education or treatment programs, especially if ordered by the court or as a condition for license reinstatement. Failing to complete these requirements can result in further penalties.
Insurance Rate Increases
What happens after you get a DUI also includes a dramatic increase in your car insurance premiums. Insurers view DUI convictions as high-risk, often resulting in much higher costs or even dropped coverage.
Personal Consequences
Now that you’re aware of the legal consequences let’s go over the personal consequences of getting a DUI.
1. Employment Impact
One of the most significant aspects of a DUI is the effect on your employment. Many employers conduct background checks, and a DUI conviction can limit job prospects, especially in fields requiring driving or high levels of trust.
2. Financial Strain
What happens after you get a DUI can lead to long-term financial strain. Beyond fines and legal fees, you may face costs for alcohol programs, ignition interlock installation, and lost wages if your job is affected.
3. Social and Emotional Toll
A DUI often includes social stigma. Relationships with family, friends, and colleagues may be strained, and the emotional toll—shame, embarrassment, or guilt—can be profound.
4. Impact on Family
If you are a primary provider, a DUI can ripple out to your family, causing financial and emotional hardship. If your offense involved an accident, the stress and strain could be even greater.
5. Long-Term Reputation
A DUI can result in a lasting mark on your reputation, affecting your standing in the community and professional networks. The perception of irresponsibility can be difficult to overcome.
Expungement of a DUI
Recent changes in Maryland law now allow for the expungement of DUI or DWI records after a 15-year waiting period if you received probation before judgment (PBJ) and meet all eligibility criteria.
This means what happens after you get a DUI may eventually include the opportunity to clear your record, provided you avoid further offenses and fulfil all court-ordered obligations. But this is just the tip of the iceberg, you should learn all the steps on how to get a DUI expunged.
What You Can Do After a DUI
Now that you know the consequences of getting a DUI, you can do a few things.
- Seek Legal Representation: What happens after you get a DUI can be influenced by hiring an experienced attorney who can help minimize penalties and navigate the legal process.
- Complete Required Programs: Demonstrating responsibility by completing alcohol education or treatment programs can positively affect what happens after you get a DUI.
- Consider Voluntary Counseling: Addressing underlying issues with alcohol use can help prevent future incidents and show your commitment to change.
- Build a Support System: Emotional support from family, friends, or support groups is essential for managing what happens after you get a DUI.
All of these steps can help you in the long run.
Which Is the Best Law Firm to Help You Out with a DUI Charge
If you’re facing a DUI charge, it’s crucial to have an experienced law firm on your side. At Scheuerman Law, we know how a DUI conviction can impact your life, and we’re here to help you navigate the legal process with confidence and success.
Our team is committed to offering the best defense and guiding you every step of the way. Here’s why Scheuerman Law is the best choice for your DUI case:
- Expert DUI Defense Lawyers: Our attorneys specialize in DUI cases and have years of experience defending clients in Maryland.
- Tailored Legal Strategies: We create a customized defense plan for each client, ensuring the best possible outcome.
- In-Depth Knowledge of DUI Laws: We stay up to date with changes in DUI law to offer the most current legal advice.
- Proven Results: With a strong track record of success, we’ve helped many clients avoid severe consequences from DUI charges.
- Compassionate Guidance: We understand the stress of facing a DUI charge and provide support throughout the entire process.
If you’re facing a DUI charge, don’t wait. Contact Scheuerman Law today at 443-888-2062 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward securing your future.
