In Maryland, a third DUI conviction carries serious penalties. A DUI is considered a third offense if the driver has two prior DUI convictions. Here are some of the more common consequences and penalties of a third DUI conviction in Maryland.
Maryland law sets the minimum and maximum penalties for a third DUI. Generally, the judge sets the specific penalties within the allowable ranges.
A third DUI conviction carries up to five years in jail and a maximum fine of $5,000. There's a minimum jail sentence of ten days if one of the prior convictions was within the past five years.
The court reports all DUI convictions to the Motor Vehicle Administration. For most third-offense DUIs, the state will revoke the driver's license for one year. However, the suspension can be longer and there can be additional consequences (such as having to install an ignition interlock device) if the driver refused an alcohol test or had a particularly high blood alcohol concentration (BAC).
If you've been arrested for driving under the influence in Maryland, talk to a DUI lawyer as soon as possible. The consequences of a DUI are serious, especially if you have prior convictions. A qualified DUI attorney can tell you how the law applies to your case and help you decide on how best to handle your situation.