If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI) in Annapolis or Anne Arundel County, the decisions you make now can shape your future. Maryland law imposes harsh criminal and administrative penalties, and convictions can impact your license, employment, and personal life for years to come.
At Hartman Attorneys at Law, we deliver strategic, aggressive DUI defense grounded in firsthand experience. As a former prosecutor, Attorney Christian Hartman knows how the state builds its DUI cases—and how to expose their weaknesses. His DUI training and certifications in field sobriety testing and breathalyzer procedures give clients a critical advantage when challenging the validity of arrests and evidence.
Our firm is based in Annapolis, and we proudly serve clients across Anne Arundel County. We are available 24/7 to respond to urgent DUI defense needs—and when you hire us, you work directly with Attorney Hartman, not a junior associate or case manager.
Understanding Maryland DUI Law
Maryland recognizes several types of alcohol-related driving offenses, each with its own legal thresholds and consequences:
DUI (Driving Under the Influence)
This charge applies when a driver has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.07% or higher. This is referred to under Maryland law as “DUI per se”—meaning the BAC alone is sufficient to charge and convict, even if there’s no observable impairment.
DWI (Driving While Impaired)
If your BAC is below 0.08% but above 0.04%, or if law enforcement alleges noticeable impairment, you may be charged with DWI. This is a slightly lesser offense but still carries criminal penalties and license consequences.
Aggravated or Enhanced DUI
You may face harsher penalties if your BAC exceeds 0.15%, you had a minor passenger, caused an accident, or refused chemical testing under Maryland’s implied consent law.
DUI Penalties in Maryland
A first-time DUI conviction in Maryland can include:
- Up to one year in jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- 12 points on your driver’s license
- Driver’s license suspension (45 days to 6 months)
- Mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs
- Possible ignition interlock device (IID) requirement
Repeat offenders or those with aggravating circumstances face longer jail time, higher fines, and multi-year license suspensions. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) also imposes administrative sanctions, regardless of the criminal outcome.
Why Early Legal Intervention Matters
Time is critical in a DUI case. You may have just 10 days to request an MVA hearing to challenge your license suspension if you want to keep your license while waiting for the hearing. Failing to act quickly can mean automatic penalties—even before you set foot in court.
That’s why Hartman Attorneys at Law offers 24/7 availability. If you’ve been arrested for DUI, you can call us anytime to get answers and take immediate steps to protect your future.
Leveraging Law Enforcement Training for Your Defense
Attorney Christian Hartman is more than just a former prosecutor—he is also trained and certified in many of the same DUI investigative techniques used by Maryland law enforcement, including:
- Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST)
- Breathalyzer equipment procedures and calibration
- DRE (Drug Recognition Expert) protocols
This technical knowledge allows us to challenge the reliability of field tests, breath results, and arrest procedures. Inaccurate BAC readings, improper police conduct, and flawed testing methods are common, and we know how to bring them to light.
DUI Defense Strategies That Get Results
Every DUI case is unique, and our legal strategies are tailored to the specifics of your arrest. We will analyze:
- The legality of the traffic stop
- Whether probable cause existed for the arrest
- How field sobriety tests were administered
- Whether the BAC testing equipment was maintained properly
- Violation of your constitutional rights
We aim to have charges reduced or dismissed whenever possible. When a trial is necessary, Attorney Hartman’s courtroom experience and prosecutorial background ensure you have a seasoned litigator in your corner.
Direct Representation from Start to Finish
Unlike many larger firms, you won’t be passed off to a junior attorney. From your initial consultation to the final resolution of your case, you’ll work directly with Christian Hartman, ensuring personalized attention and informed, decisive legal guidance every step of the way.
We also know that life doesn’t stop after business hours. That’s why we’re committed to being accessible to clients 24/7, especially when urgent arrests or court dates arise.
Serving Annapolis and Anne Arundel County
Our firm is proud to represent individuals throughout:
- Annapolis
- Glen Burnie
- Severna Park
- Crownsville
- Crofton
- Edgewater
- And the surrounding areas in Anne Arundel County
We understand the local court system and know how DUI cases are handled by Annapolis prosecutors and judges. This local knowledge gives our clients a strategic advantage.
Contact an Experienced Annapolis DUI Lawyer Today
A DUI charge in Maryland is a serious legal matter, but you don’t have to face it alone. With the right defense strategy and an experienced advocate by your side, you can protect your license, your record, and your future.
Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential consultation. We are ready to act quickly, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome—day or night.