MISTAKE #1 -- assuming that the police conducted your breathalyzer test or blood test according to correct procedure
Arresting officers in Maryland must follow tight guidelines for testing drunk drivers. If they veer from these technical rules, even slightly, the arrest may be disqualified and the charge dropped.
MISTAKE #2 -- failing to hire an effective DUI lawyer
The laws and statutes governing how Maryland DUI cases may be argued can be confusing -- even to other lawyers. Unless you find a representative who offers experience and results, you might face stiffer penalties and fines -- and even jail time.
MISTAKE #3 -- allowing your license suspension to go forward without a fight
You can find many technical rebuttals to a Maryland DUI license suspension. If, for instance, a BAC sample was not taken within a specific window of time or the BAC test were otherwise imprecise or muddled, you may be able to get the charge dropped.
MISTAKE #4 -- continuing to drive after your license has been suspended
Penalties for this kind of behavior -- particularly in the state of Maryland -- can be quite stiff. You may lose your right to drive a motor vehicle and face large fines.
MISTAKE #5 -- talking to parties other than your lawyer about your DUI matter
Attorney-client conversations are confidential. However, what you say to other parties can be used as evidence against you at some point in a court of law.
MISTAKE #6 -- settling too quickly with the State's Attorney
Given the State's Attorney's (likely) caseload, often he or she will put in the minimal amount of effort to clear your case from the queue. By pressing for a better sentence, therefore, you may be able to win a "battle of wills" with the State's Attorney and get a more lenient settlement.
MISTAKE #7 -- not appearing in court as directed
If you fail to show up at a hearing, the court may choose to issue an arrest warrant and/or rescind your posted bond. You could wind up serving jail time and further complicating your Maryland DUI defense.
MISTAKE #8 -- waiting too long before consulting an attorney
The longer you wait to find legal assistance with your matter, the more likely you will say or do something that could needlessly complicate your case.
MISTAKE #9 -- lying about the details of the event to your attorney
If you don't offer a straightforward description to your representative of what transpired, he or she will be unable to provide the best defense.
MISTAKE #10 -- choosing the wrong attorney
It may be tempting to choose a Maryland DUI attorney who offers cheap fees and "fast" results. But you should make sure your lawyer boasts a great track record for defending DUI cases, comes backed by references (from both past clients and independent organizations), and has the time and resources to press your case.
For experienced assistance with your Maryland DUI matter, trust Meng & Alpert, LLC. This top rated Maryland law firm focuses in DUI/DWI defense and can be reached at 1-866-444-6363. Click here to find out more information about DUI defense.