Arrested for DUI in California, MD? | St. Mary’s DUI Defense Lawyer
You’re Not Alone—and What You Do Next Matters
If you were recently arrested for DUI in California, Maryland, you’re likely overwhelmed, confused, and unsure who to trust.
As a local criminal defense attorney, I’ve helped many drivers in your exact situation. Let me walk you through what needs to happen next—step by step.
1. Don’t Talk to Police Without Legal Counsel
After your arrest, you may feel tempted to “explain yourself.”
Don’t. Anything you say can and will be used against you.
Even simple comments like “I only had two drinks” or “I was tired” can backfire.
✅ Remain respectful, but invoke your right to remain silent.
2. Get a Copy of Your Charging Documents
You’ll be formally charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Impaired (DWI) under Maryland law.
Your paperwork should show the charges, location of arrest (likely near Route 235 or Route 4 in California, MD), and court date.
Keep these documents safe.
3. Request a Hearing with the MVA (Maryland Vehicle Administration)
You only have 10 days from the date of your arrest to request an MVA hearing to fight the automatic suspension of your driver’s license.
Missing this deadline can result in losing your driving privileges—even before you appear in court.
📞 Call an attorney immediately to help you file the hearing request.
4. Know the Penalties You’re Facing
Even a first-time DUI in St. Mary’s County can lead to:
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- 12 points on your license
- License suspension (up to 6 months)
- Required ignition interlock device
- Permanent criminal record
The stakes are high, and they’re even worse if someone was injured or you had minors in the car.
5. Start Gathering Evidence
Your defense may hinge on:
- Dashcam footage
- Witness statements
- Breathalyzer maintenance records
- Procedural errors by law enforcement
- An experienced DUI attorney will know how to subpoena, preserve, and challenge this evidence.
6. Understand Your Options
Depending on your case details, you may qualify for:
- Dismissal or reduction of charges
- Probation Before Judgment (PBJ)
- Alcohol education programs
- Alternative sentencing
But you need to act quickly and strategically to protect your record and license.
Why Trust Jonathan L. Haskell, Esq.?
As a St. Mary’s County criminal defense attorney, I’ve defended clients in California, MD, and throughout Southern Maryland who were facing DUI and traffic-related criminal charges. I know the local courts, the judges, and how to build a strong defense even when the odds seem stacked against you.
“A DUI doesn’t have to ruin your life—but ignoring it just might.”
— Jonathan L. Haskell, Esq.
Call Now to Protect Your Future
If you’ve been arrested for DUI in California or Maryland, the time to act is right now.
Call 301-627-5844 and schedule your confidential consultation today.
Your license, your freedom, and your reputation are on the line. Let’s take control of your defense.
👉 Book your consultation online now or call us directly at 301-627-5844.
By Jonathan L. Haskell, Esq., Criminal Defense Attorney
DUI & Traffic Violations – St. Mary’s County
