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

A : A DUI generally applies when BAC is 0.08% or higher (or if impairment is clear). A DWI applies when BAC is around 0.07% or when impairment is evident even with lower BAC or drug use.

Q: If it's my first offense — am I automatically going to jail?

A : Not necessarily. Penalties vary depending on BAC level, prior record, and aggravating factors. Sometimes fines, license suspension, and probation are alternatives.

Q: What happens if I refuse a breath or chemical test?

A : Refusing the test usually triggers automatic administrative license suspension, separate from criminal charges. That’s why it’s vital to secure legal representation quickly.

Q: Should I call a lawyer even if I think the charge is minor or “just a ticket”?

A : Yes. Even traffic- or impaired-driving charges can carry serious long-term consequences — license loss, criminal record, insurance issues, employment problems. An experienced attorney can make a significant difference in outcome.

Fischer & Putzi Law Firm — Hanover, MD DUI & Traffic Defense

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

🛑 Why Fischer & Putzi Works for Hanover, MD Clients

At Fischer & Putzi Law Firm, we know how much is on the line when you're charged with a DUI or traffic offense. When the arrest happens in Hanover or nearby areas, you deserve a team that understands local courts, prosecutors, and law-enforcement practices.

We provide personalized attention and a detailed review of your case — from the traffic-stop procedures to chemical test protocols, and any available video or field test evidence.
Our defense strategy is designed to minimize penalties, fight license suspension, and protect your record and future options.

Scales, gavel, beer mug, car keys, and Lady Justice statue on a brown surface, suggesting legal and drinking themes.

Our Services in Hanover, MD

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

DUI (Driving Under the Influence) — cases involving high blood-alcohol concentration or other evidence of intoxication.
DWI (Driving While Impaired / Under the Influence of Drugs or Lower BAC) — including situations with lower BAC or impairment from drugs or mixed substances.
Refusal to submit to chemical / breath tests — refusal can trigger administrative license-suspension and criminal penalties.
Repeat DUI / DWI offenses — we handle both first-time and multiple-offense cases.
Traffic violations & related charges — speeding, reckless driving, license-suspension issues, ticket defense, and similar traffic offenses.
Administrative hearings and license reinstatement — representation at hearings before the state licensing agency (MVA) and assistance in license-recovery efforts when possible.

What Maryland Law Means for Drivers in Hanover

A BAC of 0.08% or higher is typically treated as a DUI, even without other impairment evidence.
A BAC around 0.07% (or slightly under 0.08%) — or evidence of impairment via drugs or alcohol — may lead to a DWI charge.
First-time DUI or DWI convictions carry serious penalties: fines, potential jail time, and license suspension or revocation.
Refusing a breath or chemical test triggers administrative license-suspension, apart from any criminal prosecution.
Penalties increase substantially for repeat offenses or if there are aggravating factors (e.g. minors in the vehicle, accidents, high BAC, prior record).

Because even a first offense can have long-term effects — on driving privileges, insurance rates, employment opportunities, and criminal record — early and experienced legal representation is often critical.

Our Defense Approach — How We Protect Your Rights

When you retain Fischer & Putzi, we will:

Conduct a full case review: police reports, traffic-stop details, chemical test or breathalyzer results, video or body-cam footage, and sobriety test results.
Evaluate whether the stop and testing procedures respected your constitutional rights — including whether there was probable cause for the stop, and whether tests were properly administered.
Explore defense strategies: challenging evidence, negotiating plea deals or diversion, seeking reduced charges, or dismissal when appropriate.
Represent you in any administrative hearings with the state licensing agency (MVA) — especially in license-suspension or license-reinstatement matters.
Guide you through post-arrest steps: compliance requirements, interlock-device installation appeals (if applicable), and strategies to protect driving privileges long term.

FAQs — What Hanover, MD Clients Commonly Ask

Q: What’s the difference between a DUI and a DWI in Maryland?
A: A DUI generally applies when BAC is 0.08% or higher (or if impairment is clear). A DWI applies when BAC is around 0.07% or when impairment is evident even with lower BAC or drug use.
Q: If it's my first offense — am I automatically going to jail?
A: Not necessarily. Penalties vary depending on BAC level, prior record, and aggravating factors. Sometimes fines, license suspension, and probation are alternatives.
Q: What happens if I refuse a breath or chemical test?
A: Refusing the test usually triggers automatic administrative license suspension, separate from criminal charges. That’s why it’s vital to secure legal representation quickly.
Q: Should I call a lawyer even if I think the charge is minor or “just a ticket”?
A: Yes. Even traffic- or impaired-driving charges can carry serious long-term consequences — license loss, criminal record, insurance issues, employment problems. An experienced attorney can make a significant difference in outcome.

Contact Us — Get Help Now

If you've been charged with DUI, DWI, or any traffic-related offense in Hanover, MD or nearby areas — don’t wait.
Call (410) 787-1800 or email info@fischerputzilawfirm.com for a free, confidential consultation.
We are ready to defend your rights and help protect your future.