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

A DUI typically involves a BAC at or above the legal threshold (or clear evidence of intoxication). A DWI may apply when impairment (due to drugs, alcohol, or both) affects driving ability, even if BAC is lower than the “per‑se” threshold — provided there’s other evidence of impairment.

Will a first‑time offense always result in jail time?

Not necessarily. Penalties vary depending on BAC, prior record, and any aggravating factors. Some first‑time cases can result in fines, license suspension, probation, or diversion instead of jail — though jail remains possible depending on circumstances.

What happens if I refuse a breath or chemical test?

Refusal typically triggers automatic license suspension under Maryland’s implied‑consent laws — separate from criminal proceedings. Even if criminal charges are later reduced or dismissed, the administrative consequences can still apply.

Should I retain a lawyer even if the charge seems “minor” (just a ticket or minor violation)?

Yes. DUI, DWI, and traffic‑related offenses — even those appearing minor — can have serious long‑term consequences: license loss, insurance increases, criminal record, employment or housing difficulties. Early legal help significantly improves your prospects for a favorable outcome.

Expert Pasadena, MD DUI & Traffic Defense Attorney — Fischer & Putzi Law Firm

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

Why Fischer & Putzi Is the Right Choice for Pasadena, MD Clients

At Fischer & Putzi, we understand the serious impact a DUI or traffic offense can have — on your license, employment, insurance, and future. If your case arises in Pasadena or nearby Anne Arundel County, you benefit from:

Local experience with law‑enforcement, prosecutors, and courts handling impaired‑driving and traffic cases in this region.
Personalized, thorough case review — from traffic‑stop details and sobriety testing to chemical‑test protocols and any available evidence (police reports, video, etc.).
A defense strategy focused on minimizing penalties, protecting your driving privileges, and working to safeguard your future.

Our Services in Pasadena, MD

We represent clients in a wide range of impaired‑driving and traffic cases, including:

DUI (Driving Under the Influence) — for high blood‑alcohol concentration or clear intoxication/impairment.
DWI (Driving While Impaired / Impaired by Drugs or Lower BAC) — for impairment from drugs or mixed alcohol/drug use, even if BAC is below “per‑se” limit.
Refusal to submit to chemical / breath tests — refusal can trigger serious administrative license‑suspension, separate from criminal prosecution.
Repeat or multiple‑offense DUI / DWI cases — whether it’s a first charge or a subsequent offense, we handle all levels.
Traffic violations & related charges — speeding, reckless driving, license‑suspension issues, traffic‑ticket defense, moving‑violation representation, and related offenses.
Administrative hearings & license‑reinstatement support — representation before the licensing authority (MVA) and assistance navigating license‑restoration or restricted‑driving privileges.

What Maryland Law Means for Drivers in Pasadena

Under Maryland law:

A blood‑alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher generally supports a “per se” DUI charge — meaning chemical evidence alone can suffice for prosecution.
Lower BAC (or impairment from substances other than alcohol) may still lead to a DWI charge if signs of impairment are evident (e.g. failed sobriety tests, erratic driving).
Convictions or criminal charges can result in serious consequences: fines, jail time, license revocation or suspension, and points on your driving record.
Refusing required chemical or breath testing typically triggers an automatic administrative license‑suspension, regardless of eventual criminal outcome.
Repeat offenses or aggravating circumstances (accidents, minors in vehicle, high BAC, prior record) lead to more severe penalties.

Even first‑time offenses carry long‑term risks — business, job prospects, insurance, and driving privileges — which makes early legal representation important.

Our Defense Strategy — How We Protect Your Rights

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

Perform a comprehensive case evaluation — including police reports, traffic‑stop details, sobriety/chemical‑test results, and any available evidence (video, dash‑cam, body‑cam, witness statements).
Scrutinize whether law enforcement followed proper procedure — valid probable cause for the stop, proper administration of tests, and respect for constitutional rights.
Challenge faulty or improper evidence — if testing or stop procedures violated protocols, we fight those on your behalf.
Seek favorable outcomes — negotiating plea deals, reduced charges, diversion when appropriate, or even dismissal if possible.
Represent you in administrative license‑suspension hearings — working with the licensing authority to help preserve or restore driving privileges when possible.
Provide guidance on post‑arrest strategy — including interlock‑device requirements (if applicable), license‑reinstatement procedures, and long‑term record or insurance impact mitigation.

Common Questions from Pasadena, MD Clients

What’s the difference between a DUI and a DWI in Maryland?
A DUI typically involves a BAC at or above the legal threshold (or clear evidence of intoxication). A DWI may apply when impairment (due to drugs, alcohol, or both) affects driving ability, even if BAC is lower than the “per‑se” threshold — provided there’s other evidence of impairment.
Will a first‑time offense always result in jail time?
Not necessarily. Penalties vary depending on BAC, prior record, and any aggravating factors. Some first‑time cases can result in fines, license suspension, probation, or diversion instead of jail — though jail remains possible depending on circumstances.
What happens if I refuse a breath or chemical test?
Refusal typically triggers automatic license suspension under Maryland’s implied‑consent laws — separate from criminal proceedings. Even if criminal charges are later reduced or dismissed, the administrative consequences can still apply.
Should I retain a lawyer even if the charge seems “minor” (just a ticket or minor violation)?
Yes. DUI, DWI, and traffic‑related offenses — even those appearing minor — can have serious long‑term consequences: license loss, insurance increases, criminal record, employment or housing difficulties. Early legal help significantly improves your prospects for a favorable outcome.

Contact Us — Get Help Now

If you are facing DUI, DWI, or any traffic‑related offense in Pasadena, MD or nearby areas — don’t delay.
Call (410) 787‑1800 or email info@fischerputzilawfirm.com to schedule a free, confidential consultation.
We are committed to defending your rights and protecting your future.