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Unfortunately, thousands of otherwise law abiding Maryland citizens are charged with DUI and DWI each year. ?Driving while under the influence, or DUI, can be proven by a breath test result of .08 or more or by evidence showing that the driver?s normal coordination has been substantially impaired due to drinking alcohol. ?Driving while impaired (known as DWI), which is different than driving while under the influence, can be proven by evidence showing that the driver?s normal coordination was impaired to some extent (a lesser extent than DUI), as a result of consumption of alcohol. ?This offense can also be proven by a test of .07 or more, but less than .08. The maximum penalty for a DWI is 60 days in jail for and a $500 fine for a first offense. A DUI conviction carries 12 points on your MVA record and a DWI conviction carries 8 points on your MVA record. ?12 points can lead to revocation, and 8 points can lead to suspension.
Very frequently, clients ask what a PBJ is. ?A PBJ, technically known as a Probation Before Judgment, is a very common outcome for a first offense DUI or DWI in the state of Maryland. ?There are many ways to challenge a DUI or DWI in Court and we of course are equipped to make those challenges if necessary. However, the reality is that most people charged with DUI or DWI in Maryland are in fact guilty and, even with the most creative and rigorous defense possible, will still be found guilty of one form of an alcohol related offense or another. ??So if your case is not dismissed for one reason or another, the best outcome, and a very common outcome, is a probation before judgment. A probation before judgment is not a conviction and therefore you do not receive any points from the MVA. You are placed on a period of probation (usually from 6 months to 2 years depending on the Judge or other factors specific to your case) and required to do certain conditions of probation. ?The conditions are typically alcohol education or treatment, a fine, community service and a requirement to do a MADD (Mother?s Against Drunk Driving) Victim Impact panel meeting, which is a one time session wherein you are required to watch movies and listen to stories told by victims of drunk driving.
People charged with DUI or DWI in Maryland often have questions about their driver?s license. ?Yes, it can be very confusing. Once you are taken to the local police station, an officer will usually ask if you if you wish to take a breath test. ?At that point, you have a choice. There is a pink form that the officer is required to read to you, or allow you to read, which explains your rights and consequences regarding taking or refusing the test. ?If you take a breath test and the result is .07 or lower, nothing happens. You might still be charged in court, but nothing will happen to your driving privilege. If you take a breath test and the result is between .08 and .14, the officer will take your actual license and provide you with a temporary 45 day license. ?It is a ?paper? license and is valid for 45 days. Read it very carefully. It provides you with the right to request a hearing, and in most cases you should. If you request a hearing and it is determined that you did in fact blow between a .08 and .14, a Judge from the Office of Administrative Hearings will suspend your ability to drive for 6 months for a first offense, however, you are entitled to ask for a ?modified license? that allows you to drive to and from work, during work, to alcohol treatment, to school and for a few other reasons. ?If you fail to request a hearing your license will be suspended on the 46 day for a period of 180 days, so request a hearing if you need to drive.
The consequences are more severe if you take a test and blow higher than a .15 or if you refuse to take the test. ?In Maryland, when taken down to the station and charged with DUI or DWI, if you take a breath test and blow over a .15 or refuse, you are subject to a 9 month suspension without any modifications. ?That means that you cannot drive anywhere for a period of 9 months. However, the saving grace is that if you choose you can have an ignition interlock machine put in your car and as long as you keep it for one year you can drive whenever and wherever you wish. ??Call us today if you have any questions about what you should do when a police officer gives you a temporary license.
It is very important to contact a Maryland lawyer within a few days of being charged with a DUI or DWI. ?At the Ruben Law Firm we will give you a free consultation and tell you exactly what you should be doing with regard to requesting a hearing, your drivers license, alcohol education classes and generally preparing for your hearing.
Driving without a license is an extremely common charge in Maryland, particularly in the largest counties, including Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Montgomery County, Prince George?s County and Howard County. ?It is illegal to drive without a license and if found guilty a person could face up to 90 days in jail. Can you imagine? 90 days behind bars just for driving without a valid license even if you aren?t breaking any traffic laws? ?Believe it because people go to jail for driving without a license in Maryland every day. The most important thing that you can do if you are charged with driving without a license is to contact a lawyer immediately. At Ruben Law Firm we have handled literally thousands of these cases over the years. ?We can help you take the proper steps to obtain a valid license before your court date. Usually the most important thing that a prosecutor or a Judge wants to hear at a court appearance for driving without a license is that you now have a valid license. Sometimes we will postpone your case to give you enough time to obtain a valid license. ?Most Judge?s in Maryland are not in the business of punishing people severely for driving without a license cases AS LONG as they have a valid license on the court date.
Driving without insurance in Maryland is a very serious offense in Maryland. ?If you are driving without insurance and seriously injure someone that person?s life could be ruined. ?At Ruben Law Firm our lawyers have handled hundreds of driving without insurance cases over the years. In many cases our clients come to us and explain for a variety of reasons they did not know that the car was insured. ?For example, if you are driving someone else?s car and you truly had no reason to believe that the car was not insured, you cannot be found guilty. Or if you genuinely thought you had paid your insurance premium but for some reason your insurance lapsed or was canceled and you were not given notice, the case should be dropped. ??If you were charged with driving without insurance give us a call. It carries a year in jail, 12 points and a $1000 fine. You should not go to court for a driving without insurance case without a Maryland attorney.
If you have been charged with a DUI and/or DWI anywhere in Maryland, you should contact an attorney right away. ?There are steps that you need to take within 30 days after receiving a DUI and/or a DWI that could be crucial to the outcome of your case. ?Even if you don?t have the money to retain an attorney right away, it is still a good idea to seek out a firm like ours to seek advice. When it comes to DUI and DWI, the Maryland Court and administrative system is difficult to navigate, and the only way to really get the answers that you need is to speak with an attorney. Call us today at?(410) 766-4044 or fill out a contact form and one of our Maryland DUI attorneys will be happy to discuss your situation with you personally.
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I wanted to give a huge thank you to everyone who assisted with my case. The entire process was convenient and informative. All questions or paperwork I submitted had a superior response time. Never any hangups or issues of any kind. It is a nerve-racking situation to be in and you all made it anxiety free.
David Ruben is personable, sincere, likable and very thorough. Ruben Law firm helped me get through a divorce that my ex wanted to drag out with her over-priced lawyer. David proved to be the calm, rational, and thoroughly knowledgeable attorney you'd want (and need) in your corner. He's not combative (he is tenacious) in the courtroom and seems to be well liked by the judges. He's not arrogant and has a great sense of humor. With David, you'll get more than just expert legal representation -- you'll get someone who listens and who will respect your time and get you the best results. I would trust David with any other legal troubles I hope I never need, give him a call -- you'll be glad you did.
David Ruben was my attorney during my recent divorce proceedings. His professional expertise resulted in a positive outcome to a lengthy and difficult process. He and his staff were professional, supportive and quick to respond to my questions and concerns during a stressful time. I would highly recommend him for any family law related representation or advice.
I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for your professional assistance with my family law and divorce issues. Your expertise, service, and price were outstanding! You are highly intelligent, very intuitive and creative with a great sense of humor. Your kind assistance allowed me to feel at ease with the difficult process of divorce. I really can't say thank you enough. You're a great person for helping people in need. I wish you and your family the very best. Thank you, thank you, thank you very much.
Mr. Ruben, Thanks Again !!! You were awesome!! When the State's Attorney started reading the police report and the Judge's face started getting all contorted and his mouth opened wide. I thought for sure they were going to lock me up! Then you did your smooth talking and I can't believe all I got was a $100 fine. I'm so grateful!! I'm really nothing like the person described on the police report! You and Tina both were very reassuring and understanding and she is definitely an asset to your firm and you are a class act! Thank You!!
I have no words to thank the Law Offices of David Ruben for all the attention, support and kindness you dedicated to my father. I simply cherished the services rendered. I am absolutely sure that every person who may need your services will be in excellent hands. I say that based on my own experience having my father's case handled by your office. David, you were so compassionate and I just can't thank you enough for what you've done for him. I would definitely recommend this office to whoever needs an attorney.
I have had dealings with other attorneys in the past, but what a pleasure it was to not have to chase my attorney to get a status on my case. I actually got calls on a regular basis informing me where things stood and where we were going at each stage. I don't think I had to call your office once! Your advice was always very sound, and I am so happy with my settlement.
I recently completed my bankruptcy discharge with you and I want you to know how grateful I am for the service I received from your firm. From the associates that answered the phone right up to the attorneys themselves, I always felt that I was the only client in the practice. It was not an easy road for me to declare bankruptcy but I am so glad that I trusted you with my personal issues. Thank you so much for being there in such a professional and caring way.
Wow, I didn't think there are lawyers out there like Mr. Ruben. He did not talk down to me and made me feel comfortable about my very difficult situation. He always answers my calls and responds to my e-mails immediately, and he did a great job with my case. I would recommend his services to anyone.
I was fortunate to find your web page a few weeks back. You are a very good lawyer and a heck of a nice guy to boot. Thanks for helping me in a time of some angst. Please know how much I appreciated your immediate responses and replies including weekends and calling me back last Wed night. It is obvious what sets you apart from your peers and makes you the leader in your field.
Many thanks.
I highly recommend Ruben Law Firm. Mr. Ruben and his staff are all absolutely wonderful. They are all extremely professional and efficient. I am very thankful for all the work Mr. Ruben has done for me over the years. If I ever need an attorney again, I will definitely be using Ruben Law Firm.
(5/18/2020)
I must say I have used Ruben Law Firm on a few occasions and I will not go anywhere else. David Ruben and staff are very friendly and professional. Always responsive and they get the job done right the first time! If your looking for quality, reliability, personable and affordable you can't go wrong with Ruben Law Firm.
(5/16/2020)
Ruben law firm and his team were excellent. I had never been through a divorce (or even used a lawyer for anything), but the walked me through everything and answered all of my questions, even the dumb ones. They even stayed in court all day with me when the courts kept pushing the time back of the hearing. Absolutely amazing people. I'll definitely be using them again for any of my legal needs.
(4/14/2020)
I went to David Ruben seeking guidance and support as I entered a very difficult period in my life, seeking a divorce and knowing I could be facing a nasty custody battle. However, David was a beacon of hope at a time when I thought my options were limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed impossible. Not only did David defend me again unjust accusations, his calm and empathetic demeanor offered emotional succor to myself and those I care about most. Me and my minor child are eternally grateful for his services and I highly recommend Mr. Ruben without reservation.
(10/15/2019)
I'd like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation for your services. My concerns and worries were laid to rest the first I met with you. You were sensitive and kind as you explained the law. Your approach to providing professional advice took into consideration my current and future needs, with the goal of providing me the best outcome. The process was seamless. Working with Susan was a delight. Before my hearing, she explained the process and prepared me on what to expect. Throughout, your staff earned an A+ rating for their professionalism, knowledge and promptness. I sincerely appreciate each time I could called or emailed, I'd receive a prompt reply. And, your service continued beyond the conclusion of my case. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Ms. Parker (June 11, 2019)
David Ruben's Law Firm and staff are the Lawyers I would recommend for any legal problem. Years ago I went to David Ruben for financial advice and never to this day, regretted my decision! If I need legal advice in the future I would never hesitate going back to him. David is Honest and a Caring Lawyer that you can Trust!!
A Maryland Client! (6/2/2019)
David Ruben and staff have represented me twice. I will never go anywhere else. They are understanding, down to earth and always professional. They keep me informed each step of the way. I definitely recommend them!
(5/15/2019)
Ruben Law firm really came through for me when I was at my greatest need for financial help. They made the bankruptcy process easy and understandable. I very much appreciate their service and would recommend them to anyone facing the same dilemma I was in.
(5/2/2019)
I was truly Pleased with the legal services provided.
From beginning to end the firm made Sure everything went smoothly.
Thank you
Mr Renato B.
(12/2018)
We receive great and affordable legal advice from the Ruben Law firm. And when it is an area outside their expertise, They provide excellent referrals.
(11/2018)
I walked through the doors of Ruben Law Firm in 2016 and personally met with Mr. David Ruben. I knew nothing about him or the firm's reputation; other than the testimonials on the website. He along with his staff are top notch legal professionals, proven leaders, courteous and approachable. They do NOT judge you. I came to the Ruben Law Firm in despair and left feeling that there was hope for me if I trust them to do their job. I am a law firm professional as well and I can attest to the hard work and dedication the Ruben team will strive to provide for you, too.
By Monique
(7/2019)
The Ruben Law firm gave excellent service for all my legal concerns involving a judgement of divorce. They were very patient listeners, helped clarify the positions I must take, and explained all legal procedures that would be involved. They were successful in winning my case step by step. I highly recommend them.
(7/2018)
My daughter used Ruben Law Firm more than 10 years ago but she never forgot them because they were just that memorable! Therefore, a little over a year ago when I needed legal advice and service my thoughtful daughter referred me to Ruben Law Firm, specifically Mr. David L. Ruben. Today I can only say that my experience with Mr. David L. Ruben and the Firm was the best decision I could have ever made. They took care of my legal issues with such professionalism and in the most timely manner which made it appear as though I was their only client. I thank the entire staff, Mr. Ruben and the paralegal for handling my case and for not overcharging me for the service. Thank you!
Pauline B.
(11/2017)
Your firm was a recommendation from a friend and I have made the same recommendation to others. The expertise and professionalism of your colleagues and staff is outstanding. Thank you so much for your assistance in my case. Your company far exceeded my expectations.
Best Regards,
Sherry H
(11/2017)
I have used David Ruben on several occasions. First with my son and then with my husband. We were very satisfied with the service that we received. We were so impressed that we came back to use him on four (4) separate occasions. He is professional, courteous and dependable. I highly recommend him for your legal problems.
(5/2017)
Ruben law firm is definitely the firm to go with. Everyone there is understanding and kind. I went in feeling embarrassed but when i left i had a renewed sense of confidence that they were there to help me. Amazing group of people.
(2/2017)
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