By Jonathan L. Haskell, Esq., Criminal Defense Attorney | DUI & Traffic Violations – Calvert County, Maryland
DUI Checkpoint Lawyer Solomons MD | Traffic Stop Defense Attorney
Solomons is one of those places where people go to relax, especially during the summer.
But when the festivals are in full swing or boats are coming back into the marina, local police step up their enforcement.
And that often means DUI checkpoints and traffic stops.
If you’ve been pulled over or arrested in Solomons, you may feel caught off guard.
I’ve helped many people in your shoes—drivers who didn’t realize how quickly a social drink can turn into a legal problem.
Let’s walk through what you need to know about DUI stops and checkpoints in this part of Calvert County.
Yes, DUI Checkpoints Are Legal in Maryland—but Not Unlimited
Maryland law allows police to set up sobriety checkpoints, but they have to follow particular rules:
- The location must be publicized ahead of time
- The stop must be brief and non-discriminatory
- Officers can’t search your vehicle unless they have probable cause
-
You can legally turn around to avoid the checkpoint—if done safely and without breaking any laws
In Solomon’s, checkpoints are often placed near Solomons Island Road or roads exiting marina lots after significant events.
They target both locals and visitors, especially on weekends and holidays.
Common Triggers for DUI Stops Around Solomons
Even outside of checkpoints, regular traffic stops can lead to a DUI investigation if an officer suspects that an individual is impaired.
I’ve seen clients stopped for things like:
- Drifting slightly out of a lane
- Rolling through a stop sign
- Having a broken tail light or license plate bulb
- Turning too wide or slow leaving the marina
Once the officer smells alcohol or sees “glassy eyes,” things escalate fast. But just because you were pulled over doesn’t mean the stop was lawful—or that you’re automatically guilty.
What Police Can and Can’t Do at a Checkpoint
Here’s what I tell every client:
They can:
- Ask for your license and registration
- Observe your behavior, smell alcohol, or check for open containers
- Ask you to exit the vehicle if they suspect impairment
They cannot:
- Search your car without consent or probable cause
- Force you to take field sobriety tests or answer incriminating questions
- Detain you for long without justification
You have rights, and how you handle the stop can protect them.
How I Defend DUI Arrests from Solomons Checkpoints
As your lawyer, I dig into every aspect of the stop. Was the checkpoint properly announced? Was the traffic stop legal? Was there probable cause for an arrest?
I challenge:
- Unlawful stops or detentions
- Mishandled breathalyzer tests
- Improper field sobriety procedures
- Lack of probable cause for vehicle search
- Chain of custody issues with test results
These technical details can make or break a DUI case, especially one that started at a checkpoint.
“A DUI arrest doesn’t mean you’re guilty. Police must follow the rules—and if they didn’t, I’ll hold them accountable.”
— Jonathan L. Haskell, Esq.
Don’t Let a Solomons DUI Ruin Your Record
If you were stopped or arrested during a checkpoint or traffic patrol near Solomons Island, don’t wait. Even a first offense can lead to license suspension, jail time, and a criminal record.
👉 Book your consultation online now or call us directly at 301-627-5844.
