DUI vs DWI: How Are They Different?

 

te the two terms referring to different things, many people use DUI and DWI interchangeably. In the state of Maryland, the two offenses have a lot in common. Both DWI and DUI are very serious charges. If convicted, it could have a permanent impact on your life, both personally and professionally. Working with the right lawyer from the beginning is essential.

What is a DWI?

DWI stands for Driving While Impaired. In the state of Maryland, DWI is considered to be less serious than a DUI. You can be charged with a DWI when you have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.07-0.08%. This amount is below the legal limit, but you can be charged with a DWI for showing other signs of impairment, like driving poorly or failing a field sobriety test. Because you are not over the legal limit but are still impaired, this charge exists.

What Are the Punishments for a DWI Conviction?

While a DWI is less serious than a DUI, you will still have serious consequences for your conviction. Depending on the outcome of your case, you could face up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine if this is your first time being charged with a DWI. If you have future offenses, that will be weighed when determining your punishment. You will also receive an eight-point penalty on your driver’s license, which could lead to a license suspension.

What is a DUI?

DUI stands for Driving Under the Influence, and it is more serious than a DWI. You can be charged with a DUI when you have a blood alcohol percentage of .08% or above and or operating a vehicle. .08 is Maryland’s legal limit for alcohol intoxication, and going over that limit can completely change your life due to the consequences that will be levied against you.

What Are the Punishments for a DUI Conviction?

If you re found guilty of a DWI and convicted, you can face up to a year in jail and fines of up to $1,000. The penalties are even more severe for future convictions, as those who receive a second DUI may be charged up to $2,000 and need to spend up to two years in jail. Because the Motor Vehicle Administration will also charge you with a 12-point penalty, you will likely lose your driving privileges for a set period of time. This can present many challenges for the average person, as you often need a vehicle and license to work.

You Need Representation for Your DUI or DWI Case from The Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence

If you are worried about the outcome of your DUI or DWI case, choose an experienced firm Best Lawyer in Baltimore County like the Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence to give you the help you need.  Please give us a call at 443.352.3201. Skype and telephone consultation are both available to clients.

PENDENTE LITE HEARINGS IN MARYLAND

Divorce, custody, separations, and child access issues could be challenging, long and daunting for most people. The court process in Maryland is usually a long process between when a Complaint is filed and the conclusion of the divorce case. Best Female Lawyer Parties may need a temporary resolution from the court to resolve immediate issues regarding child access, alimony, and day to day needs before the final resolution of the divorce case.

A Pendente lite is a Latin phrase that means “during the litigation/Suit.” A PL hearing as it is commonly referred to is a court hearing to determine how certain issues would be handled pending the final resolution of a family case filed before the Circuit Court in any county in Maryland.  One party usually request a PL at the Scheduling Conference or by written Motion to address issues such as child custody and access, child support, and alimony. Additional issues such as Attorney fees, use and possession of the marital home and family vehicles, and maintenance of health insurance for the benefit of a spouse and child may also be raised at a PL hearing.

GOAL OF A PENDENTE LITE HEARING

Generally, the goal of a PL hearing is to maintain the status quo of the parties as far as is reasonably possible until the parties can reach a settlement agreement, or the court can make a final decision after a trial on the merits of the case. If one spouse is not getting reasonable access to marital money or regular child access (visitation) to the children, a PL hearing can be requested to ensure that both parties maintain the status quo until the completion and resolution of the case before the court.

DO I NEED TO REQUEST A PENDENTE LITE HEARING

It depends. The decision to request a PL hearing should not be taken lightly and should be made in conjunction with an experienced family attorney. If your spouse is paying certain household bills and supporting you and the child(ren), requesting a PL hearing, you may risk receiving less than what the court orders at the PL hearing. However, if you are not receiving any financial support or have no child access, please speak to one of our experienced family attorneys at the Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence, LLC. to discuss your legal options.

HOW CAN I REQUEST A PENDENTE LITE HEARING

This request is usually done at the Scheduling conference. It is not an automatic request, and many magistrates would ask questions regarding your request for a PL hearing. Speaking to an experienced lawyer before your scheduling conference would help improve your chances of securing a PL hearing, and making sure that the PL hearing outcome is beneficial to your case.

For More Information about your rights at the Pendente Lite hearing, please call our office on 443.352.3201 or 410.986.0088 or use this link to schedule an appointment.