Q: What’s the difference between a DUI and a DWI in Maryland?

A: A DUI generally involves a BAC of 0.08% or higher (or driving under the influence), while a DWI applies when BAC is lower (often around 0.07%) or when impairment is due to drugs/alcohol without reaching the higher BAC threshold.

Q: Will a first-time DUI automatically result in jail time?

A: Not necessarily — though first-time DUI carries the possibility of up to one year in jail and up to $1,000 in fines.

Q: What happens to my license if I'm convicted or refuse a test?

A: Conviction can lead to license suspension (often six months or more). Refusing a breath/chemical test typically results in automatic license suspension under Maryland’s “implied consent” rules.

Q: Should I call a lawyer even if it’s my first offense?

A: Yes. Because the consequences even for a first offense are serious — hiring experienced counsel early can significantly impact your outcome.

Fischer & Putzi Law Firm — Brooklyn, MD DUI & Traffic Violations Defense

If you’re facing DUI, DWI, or traffic charges in Brooklyn, MD — call us now at (410) 787-1800 or email info@fischerputzilawfirm.com for a free consultation.

🛑 Why Choose Fischer & Putzi Law Firm for Brooklyn, MD DUI / DWI Defense

At Fischer & Putzi Law Firm, we know how stressful and life-altering a DUI or traffic offense can be. We provide experienced, aggressive, and compassionate defense — focused on protecting your freedom, your driving privileges, and your future.

Local Maryland experience — we understand how courts and prosecutors work in Baltimore County and nearby jurisdictions.
Personalized attention — we review evidence thoroughly (BAC testing, police stop procedures, etc.) to find possible defenses or mitigation.
Strategic representation — we aim to minimize penalties, license suspension, and long-term consequences.

Our Services in Brooklyn, MD

We defend clients against a full range of impaired-driving and traffic-related charges, including:

DUI (Driving Under the Influence) — BAC ≥ 0.08% or impairment by alcohol/drugs.
DWI / Drug- or Alcohol-Impaired Driving — BAC between ~0.07% and 0.08%, or impairment from drugs, legal or otherwise.
Refusal to submit to chemical test / Breathalyzer — Often carries enhanced penalties and license suspension.
Repeat DUI / DWI offenses — We defend first-time and repeat offenders alike.
Traffic violations & related charges — Speeding, reckless driving, license-suspension issues, and more.
License reinstatement and MVA administrative defense — We help clients navigate license suspensions and restoration where possible.

Maryland DUI & DWI Laws — What You Should Know

Under Maryland law:

A BAC of 0.08% or higher may lead to a DUI charge (the more serious offense).
A BAC around 0.07% (or slightly under) may lead to a DWI (lesser offense) — if impairment can be shown.
A first-time DUI may carry criminal penalties including jail time (up to 1 year), a fine (up to $1,000), and license suspension (often six months or more).
A first-time DWI may carry lesser penalties — typically shorter jail time (e.g. up to about 60 days), smaller fines (e.g. up to ~$500), and license suspension.
Refusing a breath or chemical test often triggers an automatic administrative license suspension — which may last many months depending on the circumstances.

Because of the severity of these penalties — jail time, heavy fines, insurance rate hikes, license loss — it’s crucial to have experienced legal representation.

How Fischer & Putzi Law Firm Helps — Our Defense Approach

When you retain Fischer & Putzi Law Firm, we will:

Conduct a full case review — including police reports, BAC results, dash-cam or body-cam footage (if available), and the legality of the traffic stop.
Challenge unlawful traffic stops or improper chemical testing — we carefully examine whether your constitutional rights were respected (e.g. was there probable cause?).
Advocate for reduced charges or alternative outcomes — including plea agreements, diversion programs, or reduced charges when appropriate.
Handle administrative license-suspension issues with the Maryland MVA — often separate from your criminal case, these require immediate attention.
Provide guidance on how to protect your driving record and future — including what to do post-arrest, how to comply with interlock or MVA requirements, and when to seek license reinstatement.

FAQs — Common Questions from Brooklyn, MD Clients

Q: What’s the difference between a DUI and a DWI in Maryland?
A: A DUI generally involves a BAC of 0.08% or higher (or driving under the influence), while a DWI applies when BAC is lower (often around 0.07%) or when impairment is due to drugs/alcohol without reaching the higher BAC threshold.
Q: Will a first-time DUI automatically result in jail time?
A: Not necessarily — though first-time DUI carries the possibility of up to one year in jail and up to $1,000 in fines.
Q: What happens to my license if I'm convicted or refuse a test?
A: Conviction can lead to license suspension (often six months or more). Refusing a breath/chemical test typically results in automatic license suspension under Maryland’s “implied consent” rules.
Q: Should I call a lawyer even if it’s my first offense?
A: Yes. Because the consequences even for a first offense are serious — hiring experienced counsel early can significantly impact your outcome.

Contact Fischer & Putzi Law Firm — Brooklyn, MD DUI & Traffic Defense

If you’ve been charged with DUI, DWI, or any traffic-related offense in Brooklyn, MD or nearby areas — don’t wait.

Call us today at (410) 787-1800 or email info@fischerputzilawfirm.com for a free, confidential consultation.

We are ready to help you defend your rights and protect your future.