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When you retain Jack I. Hyatt, you will get the very best oportunity to get your case dismissed prior to trial. Jack I. Hyatt is a aggressive lawyer for drunk driving, speeding, radar and driving on a suspended license. He is a past assistant state's attorney, has gained experience is over 20,000 cases, thoroughly knows the state's play book and is able to use it to provide you with the best possible defense, get your case dismissed prior to trial and keep your license.
"Thanks for a job extremely well done in getting my DUI, negligent driving, and all 11 related charges dismissed prior to trial so I did not have to appear in court and also having my MVA hearing dismissed."~N.M. "I was nervous about my DUI charges from the day I was charged until the day you called several days prior to trial indicating all charges would be dismissed and I would not have to appear in court. Thanks again for suggesting I not accept the state's offer to plead guilty."~~R.F. "I selected Jack Hyatt because of his experience, knowledge and reputation. He thoroughly investigated my case, detected technical mistakes made during my arrest and had my DUI and all other charges completely dismissed at trial. If you are charged with DUI or any traffic charge, he is the lawyer you need to call."~~R.S. "I was extremely worried about my pending DUI charges due to two prior DUI convictions. Your aggressive representation was excellent in getting all DUI charges dismissed prior to trial. You seemed much more knowledgeable than my two prior attorneys and were always available to answer my questions."~~T.D. "Thanks again for your aggressive representation in getting my MVA hearing dismissed and saving my license. I am so glad I switched lawyers."~~F.F.
MOST COMMON QUESTIONS OUR CLIENTS HAVE ABOUT THEIR DRUNK DRIVING IN MARYLAND CASES Can we really win? Yes. In my opinion a win is obviously a not guilty verdict or an outright dismissal. However, we also look at a win as a drunk driving charge that is dropped or reduced to another offense. Frequently, either before or during a hearing on a motion to suppress, a prosecutor will appreciate the weakness of the case and reduce the charge, because they understand that drunk driving may be difficult to prove. After learning of the facts of your case, we will tell you what we need to do to win and what our chances of success are.
Can I plead Nolo or No Contest? A nolo plea for offenses prior to July 1, 1997 could save your driver’s license. However, it is of little use today, because it will not save the license. It may carry some benefits in the event of an auto accident where liability is an issue.
Will the Prosecutor know my record? The State has access to your history. In most cases the State will know all about your prior record, although some states (e.g., Florida) do not report on-line. They will also know if it is clean. The prosecutor may obtain a national criminal history which should show prior offenses in other states. We do not present this evidence to the State, but we must know the truth so we can adequately prepare your defense.
How long does drunk driving stay on my record? In Maryland drunk driving will remain on your record forever.
I do not live in Maryland, so how will this affect me, and will I have to return for court? Maryland can suspend your privilege to drive in this State, but it cannot suspend your license. In addition, it cannot issue any kind of limiteed permit for a person with an out-of- state license. However, if convicted, your state will most likely find out and issue some sort of suspension. Most likely, you will have to return to Maryland for at least one court appearance.
Will I go to jail for this? Yes, drunk driving carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a minimum period of 24 hours in jail, with two exceptions (first in five years with a refusal or BAC under .08). Drunk driving has become a very serious issue, and most judges will give jail time for even a first offense. Most judges will look at a lifetime record. Even though the law only has specific penalties for drunk driving within a five year period, it is not uncommon for a Judge to look outside that window to determine a sentence.
Can I get a work permit if I am convicted? It depends on a number of factors. If it is a first offense and you are not administratively suspended for a refusal and you have a Maryland Driver’s License, you should be able to get a permit unless you are under 21. The limited permit will not permit you to operate a commercial vehicle. Of course, if we obtain a non-drunk driving disposition, you will not suffer any suspension, and an administrative suspension is erased. If it is a second offense in five years, you cannot get a limited permit until 12 months after the suspension goes into effect and you have an interlock ignition device installed on your car. If it is a third offense in five years, a permit is only available after two years. However, if you have been administratively suspended, these answers may change. There are many different situations, so an individual analysis is what you need. It costs nothing to talk to me, just call 410-486-1800 if you are outside our area code.
What is an interlock ignition device? It is a device that is installed on the steering column of the car and requires a breath sample in order for the car to start. In addition, it will beep at intervals and require breath samples. If any alcohol is detected, the car will shut off. An interlock device is required on all second offenses within a five year period. Some judges require an interlock on all second offenses lifetime and can impose it as a special condition of probation, even on a first offense lifetime.
When can I speak to you? We are in court on a regular basis.
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