If you are charged with a Maryland DUI or DWI, it will likely stay on your record for a long time. That is unless you take action to have it expunged.
Maryland DUI records are public and are stored in an online system called the Maryland Judiciary Case Search. That means that any individual, such as an employer or a potential spouse, can look up your background and see if you have ever been arrested for a crime.
What is a DUI?
A DUI, or driving under the influence, is an infraction that occurs when a person drives a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. In Maryland, a driver is charged with a DUI if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeds a legal limit of 0.08 percent.
As with all crimes, the penalties associated with a DUI conviction vary depending on the facts of the case. In addition to criminal penalties, a person can face administrative license suspensions, Ignition Interlock Device (IID) requirements, and other fines and penalties.
Law enforcement agencies in Maryland spend a lot of time and effort reducing impaired driving behaviors and DUI-related accidents. In an effort to prevent this, officers conduct DUI checkpoints across the state. These checkpoints are announced in advance so that drivers can prepare themselves.
What are the penalties for a DUI?
In Maryland, a driver can face jail time, fines, and license suspension for a DUI conviction. In addition, a first-time offender may qualify for Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), which can help keep the charges from going to court.
A DUI charge can also impact a driver’s ability to hold a job or attend school. It’s important to speak with an attorney if you are charged with a DUI to ensure you know the penalties associated with this offense and how to proceed.
Under Maryland law, an officer can stop a vehicle and charge someone with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs if they smell alcohol on the driver’s breath. The driver will be asked to take a chemical test to determine blood alcohol concentration levels.
How long will a DUI conviction stay on my record?
The length of time that a DUI conviction will stay on a person’s record varies from state to state. All states keep track of criminal convictions using some type of database.
A DUI is a serious offense that can result in hefty fines, jail time, and license suspension or revocation. These consequences can have a significant impact on a person’s life.
As a result, it is important to consult with an experienced Maryland DUI attorney as soon as you have been arrested and charged. Your lawyer will explain the potential penalties and assist you in defending yourself.
Additionally, a DUI can negatively affect your job prospects if it appears on a background check or if your employer requires you to make a criminal disclosure to them. You may also face higher insurance premiums after a DUI charge.
Can I expunge a DUI conviction?
After serving a DUI sentence, most people want to put the time behind them. However, a conviction can have long-lasting consequences that can make it difficult to find employment or rent housing. It may also increase your vehicle insurance rates for a period of time.
In some cases, you can expunge a DUI. This is a process where your criminal and court records are destroyed or removed from the public record, including Maryland Judiciary Case Search.
It is a good idea to consult an experienced Maryland criminal defense attorney for details about the process. They can review your specific case and explain whether or not you qualify for an expungement.
Although a DUI is not often eligible for an expungement, some felony charges like theft, home invasion, and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute can be. They must be a serious offense that resulted in a serious prison term. The wait time for these cases is typically 15 years under current state laws.
