University students in Maryland may face a wide range of risks as a result of a DUI arrest. Driving under the influence is a serious crime in Maryland, and penalties can be steep.
If you are a college student and you are facing a DUI charge and conviction, it is time to craft a strategy to mitigate the potential risks to your future.
Maryland and DUI laws
Especially if you are a student from outside the state, you may not know the potential penalties your DUI charge sets you up for. The state enacted new drunk driving laws in 2016, which included increased penalties. For example, depending on various factors, DUIs get classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony crime. This is a very important distinction because felony DUI charges carry more serious long-term consequences. If you were speeding in excess of 20 mph over the posted limit, or if you had a blood alcohol content of 0.20 percent or higher, you may face felony charges, which can include jail time.
Other issues to consider
Reducing the costs to your long-term future is a primary concern after a DUI, especially as a college student. You may be asking yourself if your DUI will affect not only your personal record in terms of driving but also your academic record at school. What types of disciplinary action might you face from your school? In addition, your DUI may bring with it civil and criminal penalties. Plus, you are now in the legal system, and this likely will require some professional assistance.
If you drove drunk and got a DUI, this is no time to take chances with your future. One course of action is to contact a professional attorney who works with college students facing DUI charges. A good defense is often the first step to ensuring that your academic and career future continues to unfold smoothly.