Being charged with a DUI or DWI in Maryland is a serious offense, and you need help from a criminal lawyer near Annapolis. A DUI lawyer can make sure your legal rights are protected throughout the process. A criminal lawyer is also well-versed in state law and is often able to negotiate a plea deal with a prosecutor so you can avoid jail time. An aggravated DUI is an even more serious charge. Keep reading to find out why an aggravated DUI may be issued, the potential penalties you face, and how a conviction could harm your future.
Reckless Behavior
An aggravated DUI is usually issued if law enforcement officials believe a Maryland driver has engaged in extremely reckless behavior. For example, aggravated DUIs are commonly charged if a drunk driver has an excessive amount of alcohol in their system, is transporting a minor, or causes a serious accident. An aggravated DUI can also be charged if you are a repeat offender, meaning you have a history of driving drunk.
Serious Penalties
With the heightened criminal charge come even stiffer penalties than normally accompany a DUI. If you are convicted, your aggravated DUI sentence may include a minimum six-month license suspension, a $500 to $1,000 fine, and up to a one-year jail sentence. On top of that, a judge can order you to undergo counseling or alcoholism treatment. Finally, you may have to have a device installed in your car that requires a breath test before you can start the ignition.
Lasting Consequences
An aggravated DUI conviction can have even more long-term consequences than jail time. If you do not consult a criminal defense attorney and are convicted of an aggravated DUI, you can expect your insurance rates to skyrocket. Even worse, you will have a lasting criminal record, which can make it difficult to find a job or secure housing. Unfortunately, once you have a DUI conviction on your record, it is almost impossible to have it removed. It is essential to hire a criminal lawyer as soon as you have been charged so that they can help you protect your rights and get the best possible outcome from your DUI.