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

A DUI usually applies when BAC is 0.08% or higher (“under the influence per se”). A DWI applies when BAC is lower (e.g. ~0.07%) or when impairment is from drugs/alcohol even if BAC is below 0.08%.

Q: If it’s my first offense — will I definitely go to jail?

Not always. Outcomes vary. First-time cases sometimes result in fines, but jail remains a possibility depending on BAC, circumstances (accident, under-age passenger), prior record, and whether the charge is DUI or DWI.

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

Refusal typically triggers an automatic license suspension by the state — even if criminal charges are later dismissed or reduced. That’s why an escape-the-test or refusal strategy needs immediate legal attention.

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

Yes. Even minor traffic- or DUI-related charges can have lasting consequences — license suspension, record of conviction, insurance rate hikes, employment issues. Early legal help can make a difference.

Fischer & Putzi Law Firm — Expert Linthicum Heights, MD DUI & Traffic Defense

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

🛑 Why Fischer & Putzi Works for Linthicum Heights Clients

At Fischer & Putzi Law Firm, we understand that a DUI or traffic offense can jeopardize your driving privileges, employment, insurance rates, and future. When you’re charged in Linthicum Heights — or anywhere in Anne Arundel County — you deserve experienced, dedicated legal defense.

Local to Anne Arundel County: we understand how local courts, prosecutors, and regional law enforcement handle DUI/DWI and traffic cases.
Personalized attention and thorough case review — we examine every detail: patrol stop procedures, BAC/chemical test protocols, dash-cam or police-bodycam footage (if available), and administrative license-suspension risks.
Strategic defense aimed at minimizing penalties, avoiding license suspension, and protecting your record and future freedom.

Our Services in Linthicum Heights, MD

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

DUI (Driving Under the Influence) — BAC ≥ 0.08% or alcohol/drug impairment.
DWI / Driving While Impaired by Drugs or Alcohol — lower BAC or impairment by substances.
Refusal to submit to chemical or breath-analysis tests — refusing a test carries serious administrative and criminal consequences.
Repeat DUI / DWI offenses — we handle both first-time charges and repeat offenses.
Traffic violations & other related charges — speeding, reckless driving, traffic-camera or speeding-camera tickets, license-suspension issues, and more.
Administrative driver’s license hearings before the Maryland MVA — we assist in MVA hearings and license-reinstatement proceedings, where timing and strategy matter.

What Maryland Law Means for Drivers in Linthicum Heights

Under Maryland law, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or greater typically triggers a DUI (“under the influence per se”) charge.
A BAC around 0.07% — or impairment from drugs — may result in a DWI.
First-time DUI or DWI convictions carry serious consequences: fines, possible jail time, license suspensions, and points on your driving record.
Refusing to submit to breath or chemical testing often leads to an automatic administrative license suspension, separate from criminal proceedings.
For repeat offenses or aggravated circumstances (e.g. accidents, minors in the vehicle, high BAC), penalties increase significantly.

Because even first-time offenses carry major risks — license loss, jail, fines — early legal intervention is critical.

Our Defense Approach — How We Protect Your Rights

When you hire Fischer & Putzi, we:

Conduct a full case review — police report, traffic-stop details, chemical test results, any video/audio evidence.
Challenge improper or unconstitutional stops and testing procedures — if the stop lacked probable cause or the breath test was administered incorrectly, we fight it.
Advocate for reduced charges or alternative outcomes — plea bargains, diversion, reduced counts where possible.
Handle MVA administrative hearings for license suspension separately and proactively — license issues often are distinct from criminal court.
Guide post-arrest strategy — including what to do immediately after arrest, how to minimize long-term consequences, and how to approach license reinstatement or interlock-device requirements.

FAQs — What Clients in Linthicum Heights Often Ask

Q: What’s the difference between a DUI and a DWI in Maryland?
A DUI usually applies when BAC is 0.08% or higher (“under the influence per se”). A DWI applies when BAC is lower (e.g. ~0.07%) or when impairment is from drugs/alcohol even if BAC is below 0.08%.
Q: If it’s my first offense — will I definitely go to jail?
Not always. Outcomes vary. First-time cases sometimes result in fines, but jail remains a possibility depending on BAC, circumstances (accident, under-age passenger), prior record, and whether the charge is DUI or DWI.
Q: What happens if I refuse a breath or chemical test?
Refusal typically triggers an automatic license suspension by the state — even if criminal charges are later dismissed or reduced. That’s why an escape-the-test or refusal strategy needs immediate legal attention.
Q: Should I call a lawyer even if I think the charge is minor or “just a ticket”?
Yes. Even minor traffic- or DUI-related charges can have lasting consequences — license suspension, record of conviction, insurance rate hikes, employment issues. Early legal help can make a difference.

Contact Us — Get Help Now

If you’ve been charged with DUI, DWI, or any traffic-related violation in Linthicum Heights or nearby Anne Arundel County — don’t wait.

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

We are dedicated to defending your rights and protecting your future.