towson dui defense lawyer
Request Consultation
Towson DUI Lawyer: Defending Your Rights Against Drunk Driving Charges
When facing DUI charges in Towson, Maryland, your future hangs in the balance. A conviction can result in jail time, hefty fines, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record that follows you for years. The Law Office of Hillel Traub, P.A. provides aggressive defense representation for individuals charged with drunk driving offenses throughout Towson and Baltimore County. With over 20 years of experience as a former Attorney General for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, attorney Hillel Traub understands both sides of the legal system and uses this knowledge to build strong defenses for his clients.
Why Choose The Law Office of Hillel Traub for Your Towson DUI Case?
Proven Track Record in Maryland Courts
The Law Office of Hillel Traub has built a reputation as skilled trial lawyers who aren't afraid to take DUI cases to court when necessary. Attorney Hillel Traub's background as a former Attorney General for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration provides unique insights into how the prosecution builds DUI cases and the weaknesses that can be challenged in court.
Comprehensive Understanding of Maryland DUI Laws
With extensive experience handling DUI and DWI cases throughout Towson and Baltimore County, The Law Office of Hillel Traub understands the nuances of Maryland's impaired driving laws. This includes knowledge of field sobriety testing procedures, breathalyzer calibration requirements, and proper police protocols that must be followed during DUI stops.
Local Knowledge of Towson and Baltimore County Courts
Having practiced in the Baltimore area for over two decades, attorney Hillel Traub has established relationships with local prosecutors and understands how different judges handle DUI cases. This local knowledge can be invaluable when negotiating plea agreements or presenting your case at trial in Towson's District Court.
How a DUI Attorney Can Protect Your Driving Record in Towson
Challenging the Traffic Stop
One of the first things a skilled DUI attorney will examine is whether the police had reasonable suspicion to initiate the traffic stop. If the stop was conducted without proper justification, any evidence obtained during the stop may be suppressed, potentially leading to dismissal of charges.
Questioning Field Sobriety Test Results
Field sobriety tests are subjective and can be influenced by various factors including medical conditions, weather, road conditions, and improper administration by police officers. An experienced DUI attorney knows how to challenge the reliability and accuracy of these tests.
Examining Breathalyzer Evidence
Breathalyzer machines must be properly calibrated and maintained to produce accurate results. The Law Office of Hillel Traub thoroughly investigates the maintenance records of breathalyzer equipment and the training of officers who administered the tests.
Protecting Your License Through Administrative Hearings
In Maryland, a DUI arrest triggers both criminal charges and administrative license suspension proceedings. Attorney Hillel Traub can represent you at administrative hearings to challenge license suspensions and help you maintain your driving privileges while your case is pending.
Understanding DUI vs. DWI in Maryland
Maryland distinguishes between DUI and DWI charges based on blood alcohol concentration levels. DUI applies when your BAC is 0.08% or higher, while DWI applies when your BAC is between 0.04% and 0.07%. Both charges can result in serious consequences, but DUI carries more severe penalties due to the higher level of impairment.
How DUI Charges Can Impact Your Life in Towson
Employment Consequences
Many Towson employers conduct background checks and may be reluctant to hire individuals with DUI convictions. This is particularly true for positions involving driving, operating machinery, or working with vulnerable populations.
Professional License Issues
Healthcare professionals, teachers, attorneys, and other licensed professionals may face disciplinary action from their licensing boards following DUI arrests or convictions.
Impact on Commercial Driver's License
Towson residents who hold commercial driver's licenses face particularly severe consequences from DUI charges. A DUI conviction can result in permanent disqualification from holding a CDL, effectively ending careers in trucking, delivery, or other commercial driving fields.
Defending Against DUI Charges in Baltimore County Courts
Most DUI cases in Towson are initially heard in the District Court of Maryland for Baltimore County. The Law Office of Hillel Traub is familiar with the procedures and personnel at this courthouse, which can be advantageous when negotiating with prosecutors or presenting your case to judges.
Common Defense Strategies
- Challenging the Initial Stop: Police must have reasonable suspicion of criminal activity to stop your vehicle
- Medical Conditions: Certain conditions can mimic signs of intoxication or affect field sobriety test performance
- Rising Blood Alcohol: Your BAC continues to rise after drinking stops
- Breathalyzer Malfunctions: These machines require regular calibration and maintenance
Maryland DUI Penalties and Alternative Sentencing
First Offense DUI Penalties
- Up to one year in jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- License suspension of 180-270 days
Second Offense DUI Penalties
- Up to two years in jail
- Fines up to $2,000
- License suspension of 180-270 days
- Mandatory minimum jail time for repeat offenses within five years
Alternative Sentencing Options
Maryland courts may offer alcohol education programs, ignition interlock programs, and treatment court programs as alternatives to traditional sentencing for qualified defendants.
Frequently Asked Questions About Towson DUI Cases
Can a DUI be taken off your record in Maryland?
DUI convictions generally cannot be expunged from your record in Maryland. However, if your charges are dismissed or you're found not guilty, you may be eligible to expunge the arrest record.
How can a DUI defense attorney help me after a DUI?
A DUI defense attorney can challenge the evidence against you, negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges, represent you at administrative hearings to protect your license, and explore alternative sentencing options.
What is the difference between a DUI vs DWI in Maryland?
In Maryland, DUI applies when your BAC is 0.08% or higher, while DWI applies when your BAC is between 0.04% and 0.07%. DUI carries more severe penalties due to the higher level of impairment.
How long does a DUI stay on your driving record in Maryland?
A DUI conviction remains on your Maryland driving record permanently. Points from the violation stay on your record for two years, but the conviction itself never disappears.
What happens if I refuse a breathalyzer test in Maryland?
Refusing a breathalyzer test in Maryland triggers automatic license suspension under the state's implied consent laws. First-time refusal results in 120 days of suspension, with longer periods for subsequent refusals.
Can I get a restricted license after a DUI in Maryland?
Maryland may allow restricted licenses for work or essential travel in some DUI cases. Eligibility depends on factors like whether it's a first offense, your BAC level, and whether you refused testing.
Act Fast to Protect Your License
If you've been charged with DUI or DWI in Towson, don't wait to seek legal representation. The sooner you contact an experienced DUI attorney, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. The Law Office of Hillel Traub has been serving the Baltimore County community for over 20 years, providing aggressive defense for individuals facing all types of traffic violations.
Attorney Hillel Traub's unique background as a former Attorney General for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, combined with his extensive trial experience, makes him uniquely qualified to handle your DUI case. From challenging breathalyzer results to negotiating with prosecutors at the Baltimore County District Court, The Law Office of Hillel Traub will fight to protect your rights and preserve your driving privileges.
Located on Reisterstown Road in Northwest Baltimore, The Law Office of Hillel Traub serves clients throughout Towson, Catonsville, Dundalk, and Essex. The firm's excellent Google rating reflects a commitment to providing personalized attention and achieving positive results for clients facing DUI charges.