What to do When Stopped for a DUI or DWI in Rockville

Rockville, Gaithersburg, Silver Spring & Wheaton, Maryland

The state of Maryland acknowledges a difference between DUI (driving under the influence) and DWI (driving while impaired). To be charged with DUI in Maryland, your BAC (blood alcohol content) must be at or above .08 percent. A DWI is given when BAC is .07 percent or lower. In both instances BAC is determined by a breathalyzer test.

Consequences for your first DUI may include up to one year in jail and $1000 in fines. A first DWI may result in two months in jail and up to $500 in fines. Repeat offenders will see jail time and fines increase for both DUI and DWI, but DWI penalties remain less harsh even after multiple infractions.

If you have been charged with DUI or DWI in Rockville, Derwood, North Potomac, Darnestown, North Bethesda, Garrett Park, Kensington, Gaithersburg, Silver Spring, or Wheaton, or surrounding areas of Maryland, please contact the Law Office of Leon A. Geller or call 301-309-8001 today to schedule a free consultation with our DUI defense attorney.

What to do When Stopped for a DUI or DWI

When you are stopped under suspicion of driving under the influence, remember that you have certain irrevocable rights. An officer can request that you take a field sobriety test or submit to chemical testing such as a breathalyzer, but you do have the right to refuse. Refusal to cooperate will most likely not prevent arrest, but under certain circumstances it might help your case when it comes to beating charges.

Regardless of whether or not you submit to testing, you must remain calm when dealing with officers. If you feel that questions being asked could incriminate you, you can refuse to answer or request a Rockville DUI attorney be consulted before you answer. It is important that you not give up your rights or provide the officer with incriminating evidence. Staying calm, being respectful and remaining silent can be very helpful when it comes time to challenge your DUI or DWI.

Please contact our experienced Rockville, Maryland DUI defense attorney to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your rights. Based in Rockville, Leon A. Geller provides personalized defense for people living in the Rockville, Derwood, North Potomac, Darnestown, North Bethesda, Garrett Park, Kensington, Gaithersburg, Silver Spring, and Wheaton areas.