Salisbury DWI with a Child Defense Lawyer

Let an Experienced Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney Fight for You

While getting arrested for and charged with a DWI is bad enough, having a child in the car when you are arrested can result in more serious penalties. 

With more than 20 years of experience, I – William R. Hall – am committed to defending you against these harsh charges. I will do my best to help you avoid child endangerment conviction through case dismissal or negotiations to reduce your charges, and I am ready to fight tirelessly for you in the courtroom.

Facing charges? Connect with our Salisbury DWI with a child passenger lawyer for a free consultation. Call (410) 205-1684 or fill out our online form to get the support you need.

Understanding DWI Charges Involving Children

In Maryland, a DWI charge escalates significantly when a child under the age of 18 is in the vehicle. This situation is classified as child endangerment, and it can lead to enhanced penalties, including longer jail sentences and larger fines.

Penalties for DWI with a Child in Maryland

The potential punishments for DWI with a child depend on prior DWI convictions, your BAC level, and other factors. If an individual under 18 years of age is in the vehicle and the driver’s BAC is 0.08% or greater, it is considered an aggravated DUI.

A first-offense DUI with a child is punishable by a maximum jail sentence of two years and a fine of up to $2,000. A second offense carries a maximum jail sentence of three years and a fine of up to $3,000. A fourth or subsequent conviction can result in a maximum jail sentence of four years and a fine of up to $4,000.

Long-Term Consequences of DWI Convictions in Maryland

The consequences of a DWI conviction with a child in the vehicle can extend beyond criminal penalties, leading to significant long-term repercussions impacting employment opportunities, as a criminal record can severely hinder job prospects, particularly in fields that require driving.

Additionally, custody and family law issues may arise from a DWI conviction. Such charges can complicate custody arrangements, potentially resulting in disputes over parental rights and visitation schedules. 

Moreover, higher premiums may follow a conviction, further straining an individual’s financial situation and making recovery from the incident even more difficult.

Possible Defense Strategies For DWI with a Passenger Under 18

When facing charges of DWI with a child in the vehicle, I can employ several defense strategies depending on your case, including:

• Challenging the Traffic Stop: If law enforcement did not have reasonable suspicion to initiate a stop, any evidence collected may be deemed inadmissible.
• Questioning Field Sobriety Tests: The accuracy and reliability of field sobriety tests can vary. As your Salisbury DWI with a child attorney, I may argue that the tests were improperly administered or that external factors influenced the results.
• Examining the BAC Evidence: Blood and breath tests can sometimes yield inaccurate results due to various factors, including equipment malfunctions or improper procedures.
• Showing Lack of Endangerment: In some cases, it may be possible to argue that the child was not in immediate danger, potentially mitigating the severity of the charges.
• Negotiating for Lesser Charges: I may also negotiate with the prosecution for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options, especially for first-time offenders.

Building a defense against a DWI with a child charge requires dedication, attention to detail, and a comprehensive understanding of the law. Each case is unique, and a personalized approach is vital to achieving the best possible outcome.

When facing the repercussions of a DWI with a child in the vehicle, having a committed legal advocate can make all the difference. The focus is not just on the immediate charges but also on protecting your rights and future.

The Importance of Timing

Taking action promptly is crucial after a DWI arrest. Engaging a Salisbury DWI with a Child Lawyer as soon as possible can significantly impact the outcome of the case. Early intervention allows for a thorough investigation and gives the attorney ample time to prepare a robust defense.

Contact My Firm and Discuss Your Legal Options Immediately

While I cannot argue that a child wasn’t in the vehicle, I can call into question the underlying DWI charges. I can investigate your case, examine all of the evidence, and build a strong defense strategy just for you. Do not risk facing these serious charged without experienced legal representation from a qualified criminal defense attorney.

Call (410) 205-1684 or contact online and request a free initial case evaluation today with attorney William R. Hall.