Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se Lawyer in Baltimore County
Experienced Defense Against Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se Charges in Towson and Baltimore County
If you or a loved one has been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol per se in Baltimore County, Maryland, you face a serious criminal offense based solely on a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher at the time of testing. Under Maryland law, this “per se” charge does not require proof of actual impairment — only the test result itself. Prosecutors in Baltimore County District and Circuit Courts pursue these cases aggressively, and a conviction can result in license suspension, jail time, substantial fines, ignition interlock requirements, and long-term collateral consequences including higher insurance rates and employment barriers.
At Shepard Law in Towson, principal attorney Stephen P. Shepard provides client-centered and compassionate criminal defense representation to individuals facing driving under the influence of alcohol per se charges throughout Baltimore County. With more than a decade of dedicated service defending clients in Towson, Essex, Catonsville, and surrounding communities, our firm focuses on understanding your unique circumstances and protecting your future with thoughtful, personalized advocacy.
Take the Next Step – Contact Shepard Law Today
A driving under the influence of alcohol per se charge in Baltimore County requires prompt, compassionate legal guidance. The earlier you reach out, the better we can protect your rights and explore all available options.
Call Shepard Law at (410) 648-4008 or complete our secure online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We also offer jail visits for a fee when needed. Attorney Stephen P. Shepard is prepared to listen carefully to your story, explain your rights, and provide the client-centered and compassionate representation you deserve in Maryland DUI per se cases.
What Is Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se?
Maryland law makes it a crime to drive, operate, or be in actual physical control of a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher at the time of testing. This is known as driving under the influence of alcohol per se. The State must prove:
- That you drove, operated, or were in actual physical control of a vehicle; and
- That, at the time of testing, your alcohol level was 0.08 or more.
Unlike general DUI charges, per se cases focus primarily on the chemical test result. However, the reliability and accuracy of that test can often be successfully challenged.
Penalties for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se in Baltimore County
A conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol per se carries significant penalties, including:
- License suspension or revocation
- Mandatory ignition interlock device installation
- Fines, court costs, and potential jail time
- Points on your driving record
- Increased insurance premiums for years
Even a first offense can trigger harsh administrative and criminal consequences. Repeat offenders face enhanced penalties.
Strong Defenses to Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol Per Se Charges
At Shepard Law, we meticulously review every aspect of the State’s evidence to build a thoughtful defense strategy tailored to your situation. Common and effective defenses include:
- Challenges to the accuracy or reliability of the breath or blood test
- Improper administration of the field sobriety tests or chemical test
- Unlawful traffic stop or lack of probable cause
- Rising blood alcohol concentration (alcohol was still absorbing at the time of the stop)
- Issues with the chain of custody or calibration of testing equipment
- Medical conditions or other factors affecting test results
Stephen P. Shepard approaches each driving under the influence of alcohol per se case with care and attention, working closely with clients to seek the best possible outcome — whether through dismissal, reduction to a lesser offense, or trial.
Why Choose Shepard Law for DUI Per Se Defense in Baltimore County
Stephen P. Shepard is a respected Baltimore County criminal defense attorney recognized by Super Lawyers as a “Rising Star,” Avvo with a 10.0 “Superb” rating, Martindale-Hubbell as a “Client Champion Platinum,” and The National Trial Lawyers as a “Top 40 Under 40.” He is an active member of the Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys Association and regularly appears in Baltimore County courts.
Our Towson office, located at 303 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Towson, MD 21204, serves clients across Baltimore County. At Shepard Law, you receive client-centered and compassionate representation focused on your individual needs and long-term well-being.
Take the Next Step – Contact Shepard Law Today
Call Shepard Law at (410) 648-4008 or complete our secure online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We also offer jail visits for a fee when needed. Attorney Stephen P. Shepard is prepared to listen carefully to your story, explain your rights, and provide the client-centered and compassionate representation you deserve.
