Baltimore Criminal Defense Lawyers

The Most Serious DUIs Are Charged as Felonies in Maryland

Repeat DUIs and aggravating factors can result in harsher penalties in the Baltimore courts

Most DUIs are misdemeanors in Maryland. However, charges may be upgraded to a felony under certain conditions. Although all DUI arrests are serious, a felony DUI can result in harsher penalties and more devastating lifelong consequences.

Founded in 1980 by local attorneys, LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton is dedicated to obtaining justice for our neighbors charged with a crime in Baltimore and the surrounding communities. Our firm is your zealous advocate in the courts. Depending on the specific circumstances of your arrest, our Maryland DUI lawyers may negotiate a plea that minimizes your sentence or present an aggressive defense at trial. Our goal is always to put you in the best possible position.

When is a DUI charged as a felony?

Your DUI charge may be a felony if:

  • You were impaired when you were involved in an accident that caused death or life-threatening injuries.
  • There are prior DUI convictions on your record.
  • You had a minor in the automobile with you at the time you were driving while impaired.
  • Your blood alcohol content (BAC) was .20 percent or higher.
  • You were driving more than 20 mph over the speed limit while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Felony DUI evidence

Prosecutors determine whether to charge you with a felony based on Breathalyzer results, your performance on field sobriety tests, your criminal history and the circumstances of your arrest. Even if you refuse to blow into the Breathalyzer, you may still be charged with an aggravated DUI if law enforcement collects enough evidence proving that you were drunk at the time you were operating your motor vehicle.

Felony DUI penalties

A felony DUI sentence typically includes incarceration in state prison instead of a county jail. Your prison term is followed by probation, license suspension or revocation, heavy fines and victim restitution. A felony criminal record will have long-term consequences regarding your right to possess a firearm, your eligibility to vote, your immigration status and your future employment opportunities. With so much at stake, you cannot afford to delay retaining experienced representation.

Retain Experienced Baltimore Criminal Defense Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton to Fight your Felony DUI Charges

Learn how we can defend you against a DUI allegation. Call Maryland DUI lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact our firm online. Your first consultation is free. Our Baltimore defense firm represents clients throughout Maryland.