Arrested for DUI in Catonsville? We’re Here to Help You Move Forward.
A DUI or DWI charge in Catonsville can feel stressful and confusing. You may be worried about losing your license, missing work, or what this means for your future. You don’t have to face this alone — with the right lawyer and strategy, you can often protect your license, avoid the harshest penalties, and get your life back on track.
At the Law Offices of David R. Waranch, we’ve handled thousands of DUI, DWI, and serious traffic cases throughout Maryland. We frequently appear in Catonsville and Baltimore County, representing clients charged with reckless driving, driving while suspended, driving without a license, and driving without insurance.
If you need a DUI Lawyer in Catonsville, MD, we’re ready to help immediately.
What a DUI or DWI Charge Really Means in Maryland
Maryland law recognizes two primary alcohol-related driving charges under Transportation Article §21-902:
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence) — typically charged with a BAC of 0.08 or higher or alleged substantial impairment.
- DWI (Driving While Impaired) — often charged at lower BAC levels or based solely on officer observations.
DUI is the more serious offense and can trigger stronger penalties — especially with prior offenses, high BAC, a crash, or minors in the vehicle.
Possible penalties include:
- License suspension or ignition interlock
- Fines and court costs
- Probation
- Jail time for serious or repeat cases
- Points on your driving record
- Higher insurance premiums
According to the CDC, impaired driving is a major public safety issue, which means prosecutors take these charges seriously. But many DUI cases can still be resolved favorably with the right defense.
The Two Parts of a DUI Case: Court & MVA
A Maryland DUI case involves two separate processes:
- The criminal case in District Court
- The administrative case before the Maryland MVA
The court decides penalties such as probation or jail. The MVA determines what happens to your driving privileges, including suspensions or ignition interlock requirements.
If you refused the breath test or blew over the limit, strict MVA deadlines apply — missing them can cause an automatic suspension.
We regularly handle both sides, including related issues such as MVA hearings, driving while revoked, and CDL violations.
How a Catonsville DUI Lawyer Builds Your Defense
Every DUI case is unique — and a strong defense starts with analyzing the evidence carefully. We investigate weaknesses in the State’s case and build a strategy that fits your situation.
We may challenge:
- The traffic stop — Did the officer have legal justification?
- Field sobriety tests — Were they administered using proper NHTSA standards?
- Breath test procedures — Was the machine properly calibrated?
- Your statements — Were your rights protected?
- Dashcam and bodycam footage — Does the video contradict the report?
Depending on the case, the best outcome may be a not-guilty verdict, a reduced charge, PBJ (Probation Before Judgment), or an agreement that protects your license and record.
We also handle related issues such as bench warrants and criminal defense when your case involves additional charges.
DUI, Your License & Your Future
A DUI conviction can affect several areas of your life, including:
- Employment — especially if driving is part of your job
- CDL holders — commercial drivers face severe consequences
- Security clearances — government & military roles may be impacted
- Insurance rates — policies often increase for several years
We guide you through proactive steps — such as alcohol education or treatment programs — to strengthen your case and show the court and MVA your commitment to moving forward. Many drivers also benefit from early guidance from an experienced Maryland traffic lawyer who understands how DUI cases impact both criminal charges and licensing consequences.
Because DUI cases often involve local courts and MVA procedures, working with a knowledgeable Baltimore traffic lawyer can help ensure your defense is handled strategically from the start.
You can also review national impaired-driving research from the National Safety Council and CDC for additional context.
DUI Cases We Handle in Catonsville & Nearby Areas
We handle DUI, DWI, and related traffic cases throughout Baltimore County, including:
- Catonsville
- Arbutus
- Woodlawn
- Halethorpe
- Windsor Mill
- Elkridge (nearby)
- Other Baltimore County communities
Related locations:
- Baltimore City
- Ellicott City
- Essex
- Glen Burnie
- Hyattsville
- Silver Spring
- Towson
- Upper Marlboro
- Frederick
Don’t Face a DUI Alone — Talk to a Catonsville DUI Lawyer Today
A DUI charge can feel overwhelming, but your future is not decided yet. Taking action quickly gives you more options to protect your license, your record, and your peace of mind.
📞 Call 301-563-9575 or visit davidwaranch.com to schedule your free consultation.
Law Offices of David R. Waranch — Maryland Traffic Lawyers.
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