Can I Lose My License Because of a Maryland DUI?
There are many in Maryland and throughout the country that rely on driving to take care of errands and work every day of the week. If a person who drives regularly loses their license, it may be hard for them to move forward with day-to-day life.
After a Maryland DUI, it is likely your license will be suspended. If you are facing an arrest for driving under the influence, you need a Baltimore DUI & DWI lawyer working for you.
Fines, License Suspension, and More
Driving when under the influence of alcohol or drugs is serious. It puts a driver, their passengers, and the lives of others on the road at risk. In Maryland, even if the charge is a first offense, losing a license for 6 months is likely. The time frame extends when the event is a second or third offense.
Of course, the minimums of license suspension apply when an individual is convicted of the offense. When the DUI arrest happens, the officer who is moving forward with the arrest may give you a paper permit and take your license. Then, a driver can legally drive with a paper permit until it is decided if the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration will move forward with a license suspension. In most cases, you have 10 days to appear at a hearing. At the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, a driver can share their side of the story in an effort to avoid license suspension. If they do not appear, the suspension will be immediate.
There are other circumstances when an immediate license suspension can occur. An example of this is when a driver refuses to take a breathalyzer test. To learn more about Maryland laws, connect with a Baltimore DUI lawyer.
Restricted Licenses Can Be Issued In Hardship Circumstances
There are situations when accessing a restricted license is a possibility when a person has their license suspended. A restricted license does come with limitations on driving. A restricted license after a DUI could allow an individual to use their automobile in certain situations, such as the following:
- Drive to work.
- Drive to school.
- Drive to alcohol treatment programs.
- Drive to medical appointments.
An experienced attorney can help in determining if a restricted license is a possibility. For instance, it may be possible to obtain permission for a hardship license if an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) is installed. An IID is a device designed to check if a driver is sober before they can turn the vehicle on and operate the car. It can be a useful tool for a person to continue going to work while their license is suspended due to a DUI.
Coping with a DUI arrest can be extremely emotional. Plus there can be financial repercussions. It is important a person connects with a knowledgeable lawyer to understand what options are available.
Were you arrested for a DUI? Let our attorneys protect your rights. Reach out to the legal team at Iamele & Iamele, LLP to understand your options. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
