By Jonathan L. Haskell, Esq., Criminal Defense Attorney – St. Mary’s County, Maryland
Scotland, MD DUI Checkpoint Arrest | St. Mary’s DUI Defense Attorney
If you were stopped at a DUI checkpoint in Scotland, Maryland, and ended up in handcuffs, you are not alone.
These checkpoints are legal in Maryland when law enforcement follows specific procedures, but that does not mean every arrest is valid.
I am Jonathan L. Haskell, a criminal defense attorney serving St. Mary’s County.
If you are now facing a license suspension, I want to explain what you are really dealing with and how I can help.
DUI Checkpoints Are Legal but Must Follow the Rules
In Maryland, police departments can conduct sobriety checkpoints, including in smaller communities like Scotland.
These checkpoints usually occur late at night on weekends or around holidays.
Law enforcement must follow constitutional guidelines when stopping vehicles.
That includes giving drivers equal treatment, providing advance notice, and following clear protocols.
If they arrested you at one of these checkpoints, the entire case hinges on whether they followed those rules.
The Arrest Felt Fast. The Penalties Last Much Longer.
Most of my clients tell me they did not even realize what was happening until they were being asked to step out of the car.
One minute they were in line, and the next they were being given a field sobriety test.
If you failed that test or took a breathalyzer and blew over the limit, you are now facing serious consequences.
For a first-time DUI in Maryland, the penalties may include:
- Up to one year in jail
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Twelve points on your license
- License suspension of 45 to 180 days
- Ignition interlock device
- Alcohol education and treatment programs
If you refused the test, your license could be automatically suspended for 270 days or more unless you act quickly.
You Only Have Ten Days to Request an MVA Hearing
One of the most urgent steps after a DUI arrest is filing for an administrative hearing with the Maryland Vehicle Administration.
You must do this within ten days of your arrest, or you will lose your right to challenge the suspension.
If you miss this deadline, your license could be suspended automatically, even before you go to court.
That is why I urge you to contact me immediately after an arrest.
The sooner we act, the more options we will have to protect your ability to drive.
I Build a Defense Based on Your Rights and Their Mistakes
DUI checkpoint cases have unique challenges and opportunities. I start by reviewing the stop itself. If officers failed to follow protocol at the checkpoint or during the arrest, I may be able to suppress evidence or have the case dismissed entirely. I also examine whether:
- The checkpoint had proper signage and warning
- The officers followed a neutral stopping pattern
- The field sobriety tests were administered correctly
- The breathalyzer was properly calibrated and maintained
- You were informed of your rights under Maryland law
Even if the evidence looks strong, I can often negotiate reduced penalties, Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), or treatment-based alternatives that avoid jail and protect your record.
Scotland Is a Small Town, but the Charges Are Serious
Just because the stop happened in a quiet area like Scotland does not mean the consequences are light.
Prosecutors in St. Mary’s County take DUI cases seriously, especially when they involve refusal to test or high blood alcohol levels.
“If you were arrested at a DUI checkpoint in Scotland, do not assume you are out of options. Every case has defenses. You just need someone who knows how to find them.”
— Jonathan L. Haskell, Esq.
Do Not Wait. Your License Is Already at Risk.
If a DUI checkpoint in Scotland, Maryland, led to your arrest, call my office today.
I will explain your legal rights, help you file for an MVA hearing, and begin building a strong defense right away.
👉 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
