Experienced DWI and DUI Defense Attorney in Baltimore and Annapolis
A "Serious Trial Lawyer" Fighting for Clients' Rights Since 1992
DUI and DWI charges have become much more complex than "I was caught, what happens now?" Over the last Fifteen years the Maryland Legislature and police in every county through Maryland have been trained to target individuals who may be driving while Intoxicated. The Police have spent millions of tax dollars to set up procedures how to stop, test, arrest and turn your case over to the State's Attorneys Office for prosecution. Maryland Police produce manuals describing exact procedures to be used when giving field sobriety test. The basic test are:
- Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus - Click here for additional information on this test
- Walk and Turn
- Horizontal Heal to toe
- Alphabet
- Finger to nose
- One let stand
- Other dexterity creative test
Police use "indicia" to try and show that you appear to be under the influence of alcohol. Some of the basic "indicia" are:
- Defendant fumbled or had difficult time obtaining & showing police officer license or other care documents
- Police smelled strong or moderate odor of alcohol (or other drug)
- Defendant has blood shot eyes
- Defendant had "mush mouth" he speaking
- Defendant stumbled & looked disheveled
What you say to the Police officer also has an impact such as "I only had two (2) beers". It is extremely important that you contact my office immediately after you have been arrested. Trial preparation and understanding of the process will give you the best chance of a successful resolution in Court as well as the Office of Administrative Hearings.
Dozens important factors can influence the outcome of a case, including the level of penalties. For instance, the judge may wish to know:
- The defendant's blood alcohol content (BAC) level
- Who served the defendant alcohol
- Who was in actual control of the vehicle (which can lead to questions about the vehicle's engine, parking brake and lights, the location of the vehicle, the condition of the defendant and the location of the defendant within the vehicle)
- Whether property was damaged or injuries occurred in relation to the incident, and whether the defendant had previous DUI/DWI convictions
Answers and evidence relating to these and other questions may determine whether the defendant is found guilty and what level of penalties he or she will face.
Timing is also important. Strict deadlines apply to defendants' right to petition the MVA for an administrative hearing to prevent the suspension of their drivers' license.
Because of the complexity of DUI and DWI cases, and because the outcome of your case so crucial, it's important to work with an experienced and diligent criminal defense lawyer following drunk driving charges.
If you face DUI or DWI charges in Maryland, contact me, attorney Jim Crawford. I have helped thousands of accused people throughout Maryland in my 18 years of service as a criminal defense trial attorney. For a free consultation regarding your case and your rights, contact my firm.
Contact Me
If you face a traffic charge or are in need of a strong DUI defense in Maryland, contact the Law Offices of James E. Crawford Jr. I offer free initial consultations, accept credit cards and contract with interpreters when necessary. Also, I am available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and operate four offices for your convenience, including my main office in Baltimore as well as offices in Catonsville, Annapolis and Bel Air. To contact me, call 443-701-4525 or 866-635-0623.
