Baltimore DUI & DWI Defense Attorney
Aggressive DUI Defense
for drivers throughout Baltimore and central Maryland
You’re driving home and suddenly see the flashing lights in your mirror. You know a DUI or DWI arrest can change your life – in a matter of minutes. Whether it’s your first offense or you’ve been charged before, a conviction can lead to license suspension, expensive fines, higher insurance rates, mandatory alcohol education programs, and even jail time.
Jennifer Matthews Law provides experienced, strategic representation for individuals facing DUI and DWI charges throughout the Baltimore metropolitan area. With over 25 years of experience in Maryland’s criminal justice system, Jennifer has served as both an Assistant State’s Attorney and an Assistant Public Defender, giving her valuable insight into how impaired driving cases are investigated, prosecuted, negotiated, and tried in court. She uses that unique perspective to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, protect her clients’ constitutional rights, and pursue the best possible outcome.
Jennifer understands that a DUI charge does not define who you are. She provides personalized legal guidance, keeps clients informed throughout the legal process, and works tirelessly to minimize the impact a DUI or DWI charge can have on their future.
Contact Jennifer Matthews Law today for a free, confidential consultation.
Jennifer’s background as both an Assistant State’s Attorney and Assistant Public Defender gives her a unique perspective that few attorneys possess.
You’ll work directly with Jennifer throughout your case, receiving personalized attention and responsive communication from start to finish.
Clients trust Jennifer to provide aggressive advocacy focused on achieving the best possible outcome for every case.
Understanding Maryland DUI & DWI Charges
Maryland law prohibits operating or attempting to operate a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. There are several types of impaired driving offenses, each carrying different penalties.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
A DUI generally involves:
- A Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher
- Significant impairment caused by alcohol
- Impairment from drugs or a combination of drugs and alcohol
A DUI is the more serious of Maryland’s impaired driving offenses.
Driving While Impaired (DWI)
A DWI charge generally alleges a lower level of impairment than a DUI and often involves:
- A BAC of under 0.08%
- Noticeable impairment caused by alcohol
- Certain prescription medications or controlled substances
Even though DWI carries less severe penalties than DUI, it can still have lasting consequences on your record, employment, and driving privileges.
Commercial Driver DUI Charges
Commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders face stricter legal standards and potentially career-ending consequences after a DUI arrest.
Jennifer Matthews Kafes understands the unique issues facing commercial drivers and works aggressively to protect both your license and your livelihood.
Penalties for DUI and DWI in Maryland
The penalties you face depend on several factors, including prior convictions, your BAC level, whether anyone was injured, and whether a minor was in the vehicle.
Many drivers don’t realize that a DUI arrest can trigger two separate proceedings including Criminal charges in court and Administrative action against your driver’s license.
Your driver’s license may be suspended shortly after your arrest, even before your criminal case is resolved. Taking prompt legal action is essential to protecting your driving privileges and exploring options such as the Maryland Ignition Interlock Program when appropriate.
MVA Hearings
When you are charged with a DUI or DWI you face the suspension of your drivers license. The length of the suspension will be determined according the allegations and your record. A prompt hearing request to the Office of Administrative Hearings may preserve your right to a hearing and extend your temporary license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I hire an attorney for a first DUI?
Yes. Even a first DUI conviction can have long-lasting consequences. An experienced attorney may be able to reduce charges, suppress evidence, negotiate favorable outcomes, or identify defenses that could significantly improve your case.
Will I lose my driver's license?
Possibly. License suspension depends on several factors, including your BAC, whether you refused testing, and your driving history. Acting quickly is important to preserve your rights.
Can a DUI be dismissed?
Some DUI cases are dismissed due to insufficient evidence, constitutional violations, or procedural errors. Every case depends on its specific facts.
What if the DUI involves drugs?
Maryland DUI laws also apply to impairment caused by:
- Prescription medications
- Marijuana
- Illegal drugs
- Over-the-counter medications
- Combinations of alcohol and drugs
Unlike alcohol-related cases, drug impairment cases often involve more complicated scientific evidence. Jennifer Matthews understands how to evaluate toxicology reports and challenge questionable evidence.
Should I plead guilty?
You should never plead guilty without first consulting an experienced criminal defense attorney. There may be defenses or alternatives that significantly improve your outcome.
What types of evidence is used in DUI cases?
Every DUI case is unique, and prosecutors often rely on multiple forms of evidence, including:
- Traffic stop observations
- Field sobriety tests
- Breathalyzer results
- Blood test results
- Body camera footage
- Dash camera video
- Police reports
- Witness statements
An experienced DUI defense attorney knows how to carefully examine every piece of evidence for weaknesses and constitutional violations.
What happens if the driver is under 21?
Drivers under the age of 21 face serious consequences for alcohol-related driving offenses. Even a relatively low BAC can result in administrative penalties, license suspension, and criminal charges.
If your child has been charged with DUI or DWI, experienced legal representation can make a significant difference.
What are some possible DUI Defense Strategies?
No two cases are alike. Jennifer Matthews carefully investigates every aspect of the arrest to determine the strongest defense strategy.
Possible defenses may include:
Illegal Traffic Stop
Police must have a lawful reason to stop your vehicle. If they lacked reasonable suspicion, evidence obtained after the stop may be challenged.
Improper Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests are not always reliable. Weather, uneven pavement, fatigue, injuries, age, or certain medical conditions can affect performance.
Breath Test Errors
Breath testing equipment must be properly maintained and calibrated. Incorrect procedures or equipment malfunctions can produce inaccurate results.
Medical Conditions
Certain health conditions, medications, or dietary factors may produce misleading breath test readings or mimic signs of intoxication.
Police Procedure Violations
Law enforcement officers must follow strict legal procedures during DUI investigations. Failure to follow these procedures may weaken the prosecution’s case.