DUI charges in Maryland require skilled, aggressive advocacy

Last month, the vehicle safety advocacy group Mothers Against Drunk Driving released its annual report rating the states on their efforts to reduce the number of drunk driving fatalities and, as always, it was a very interesting read.

For those unfamiliar with this report, it is part of MADD’s Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving, which dates back to 2006. It awards each of the states up to five stars based on the strength of their respective drunk driving laws and countermeasures.

Specifically, a state will receive a star for having each of the following:

• Ignition interlock laws — laws mandating the installation of alcohol detection systems that will prevent the vehicles of convicted drunk drivers from starting if any alcohol is detected.
• Sobriety checkpoints — random checkpoints that screen motorists for possible intoxication.
• License revocation laws — laws enabling law enforcement officials to immediately confiscate a driver’s license upon arrest for drunk driving.
• Child endangerment laws — laws that treat drunk driving with a minor present as a form of child abuse
• No-refusal events — programs that enable law enforcement officials to secure expedited warrants for those who refuse blood alcohol tests.

The report awarded 13 states, including neighboring Virginia, five stars. As for Maryland, our state earned four stars, missing the highest rating because of the absence stronger ignition interlock laws.

What this report serves to highlight is that law enforcement officials, the court system and lawmakers take driving under the influence very seriously in our state. It also highlights just how severe the penalties can be for a DUI conviction.

Indeed, those arrested for DUI should strongly consider speaking with an experienced and skilled legal professional as soon as possible.

At the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, PA, we have this skill and experience. We also know how a DUI conviction can affect everything from your career to your reputation, and will fight to enforce your rights and minimize these consequences.

Please visit our website to learn more.