What Are the Maryland DUI Records?
The Maryland DUI records are a database of people who have been convicted of driving under the influence in Maryland. The database is divided by convictions made before July 1, 2017, and those made after July 1, 2017.
According to the Public Information Act, the Maryland DUI records are publicly available to anyone who wants to see them. They can be searched by name or date through the Maryland Criminal Justice Information System.
What Is Included in the Maryland Criminal Justice Information System?
In addition to the specific criminal act, a public criminal record includes the following information about an individual:
What Is a DUI in Maryland?
The state of Maryland has strict driving laws and penalties. It is essential to know the difference between a DUI and a DWI in Maryland to avoid the penalties for each offense.
A DWI is an offense that is punishable by:
- Up to 180 days in jail
- Fines from $500-$2500
- Probation
- Loss of license.
Those are the penalties for the first conviction. For subsequent convictions, you can face up to one year in prison and fines of $1,000-$5,000.
A DUI, on the other hand, is an offense that is punishable by up to 90 days in jail, fines, probation, and loss of license. If you are arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or even prescription or over-the-counter medication, you should consult an experienced attorney.
Do Maryland DUI Arrests Appear on Your Public Record?
A DUI arrest is a severe offense, and it can create a significant setback in your life. You may find yourself dealing with legal charges, court dates, and fines to pay.
You may be wondering if the DUI arrest will show up on your public record.
The answer to this question is yes. Every time a background check is conducted, a DUI arrest will show up on your public record at least seven years after the incident.
If you are convicted of the crime, it will show up for ten years from the date of conviction. If you have multiple DUIs, that time is extended by five years for each subsequent offense.
With such steep consequences, it is wise to talk to a skilled attorney if you are arrested for driving under the influence.
How Do You Look Up Public Records of DUIs in Maryland?
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration is a central repository for all the public records of drivers, including driving records, vehicle registrations, and driver’s licenses.
You can request a copy of your driving record by mail or in person. The MVA will provide you with a certified copy of paper records within 15 days of receipt of the request.
The District Court and Circuit Courts Records are open to public access at the courthouse and electronically.
At the clerk’s office, let the clerk know the case record you want to access. The clerk could find the paper records by using the names of the involved individuals if you don’t have the case number.
You can also request a copy of court papers, but there is a fee for copies. You may also access the records electronically through the Maryland Judiciary Resources.
Contact Our MD Criminal Defense Lawyers
Being accused of a crime can be terrifying. An imperfect justice system has placed a target on your back, and you’re left to jump through hoops while somebody else chooses your fate.
With our Maryland team on your side, you can rest assured that your future lies in good hands. Our Maryland criminal defense lawyers understand how to even the chances when it feels like it’s you against the world. Contact us today to schedule a confidential case assessment and discover how we can make justice work for you rather than against you.