What are the penalties for a first DUI offense in Maryland?

The penalties for a first DUI offense in Maryland include up to one year in jail, a fine of $1,000, and the addition of 12 points to your driving record. The jail term reflects the seriousness of driving under the influence, as it poses a significant risk to the safety of the driver and others on the road. The fine serves as a financial consequence meant to deter future offenses and reinforces the legal ramifications of such behavior.

The inclusion of 12 points on your driving record is crucial as it can lead to the suspension of your driving privileges. In Maryland, accruing 8 points within a two-year period results in a suspension, which highlights the state's approach to having strict consequences for impaired driving. This multi-faceted penalty structure ensures that offenders face both immediate and long-term repercussions for their actions.

Other options suggest penalties that do not align with the Maryland laws governing DUI offenses. For instance, community service alone does not address the severity of DUI offenses, and the lower fines and lack of jail time do not reflect the state's commitment to preventing impaired driving.